Manzanita Manor Organics

Our organic port grape vineyard is surrounded by 275,000 acres of national forest. It adds a new meaning to the term “far out vineyards “. With 2,000+ feet elevation, the hilly terrain with its mostly sandy loamy soil, 100+ temp in the summer and low 20’s in the winter, this location might not seem like the best place to grow grapes. On the contrary, these conditions have produced outstanding grapes.

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The vineyard was planted in 2003 and has been organic certified from the start. The Portuguese varietal grapes were chosen for their ability to withstand the temperature extremes and the Organic Dessert Wine selected as the final product.

The vineyard is farmed in the tradition of times past; off the grid, wells powered by the wind and sun, mowing the hills with Buddy and Sunny, and lots of hand tending. Buddy and Sunny pictured on our label are the fjord horses. They are large work ponies, but the 12 foot row spacing allows them to travel side by side while we maintain the cover crop.

There is a year round pond that supports some wonderful ducks, birds, frogs and turtles as well as supplying water. While planting the vineyard, two thirds of the property was left as wildlife corridors to allow the native animals to roam freely. Several watering stations further encourage their presence and livelihood.Our 2 Horse Vineyard organic Dessert wine from Portuguese grapes is certified by the USDA and CCOF and already has an enthusiastic fan base since its first release, the 2008 vintage.