Ehlers Estate Winery

Off the highway down a county road is Ehlers Estate Winery, a special philanthropic retreat with a 120-year-old fully restored winery. In their tasting room they pour richly flavored Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc.

The winery was named after Bernard Ehlers, who built the facility and made wine on the property for many years. The original 42-acre estate was divided and sold following his death. By 2003, Jean and Sylviane Leducq had purchased the individual parcels and recreated the original estate. Their goal was to produce world-class wines to support the philanthropic foundation they established, while at the same time maintaining the historic integrity of the property.

Jean and Sylviane eventually passed control of the winery over to their Leducq Foundation in Paris. The foundation funds cardiovascular research, providing $20 million to $25 million a year in grants.

The large castle-like tasting room has a high ceiling with heavy wooden beams and pillars. The tasting counter is made from old barrel staves, and the staff is attentive and relaxed. For an outdoor treat relax in their olive grove, where
100-year-old trees provide shade and country ambiance.

The vineyard is farmed using biodynamic methods and the winemaking is non-interventionist, letting the vineyard reflect its unique terroir.