Etude Wines

Etude Wines, established in 1982 in the cool-climate Carneros region, has dedicated itself to crafting world-class Pinot Noir. The winery operates on the philosophy that superior grape growing minimizes the need for intervention by the winemaker, resulting in wine that is grown, not made. This approach emphasizes that winemaking begins in the vineyard long before the harvest.

In 2000, Etude developed Grace Benoist Ranch, the culmination of an eighteen-year journey to find the most suitable terroir for their estate vineyards. The ranch features seven Chardonnay clones, nine Heirloom Pinot Noir clones, and eight additional Pinot clones, divided into 24 individual vineyard blocks, each with its own soil type, rootstock, grape variety, and clonal type. These blocks average only eight acres in size, with dense spacing to ensure low per-vine yields of fully concentrated fruit.

Etude’s commitment to Pinot Noir extends beyond Carneros, sourcing fruit from California’s Central Coast, Oregon, and even New Zealand. This diversity offers guests the opportunity to explore the world’s most notable Pinot Noir regions through Etude’s wines.

Under the guidance of Winemaker Jon Priest, Etude continues to build its legacy, focusing on the demanding yet rewarding pursuit of crafting exceptional Pinot Noir. The winery’s philosophy remains rooted in the belief that meticulous viticulture leads to wines that are a true expression of their origin.

Etude Wines invites enthusiasts to discover their roots in Pinot Noir and experience the intricate flavor profiles that reflect their dedication to superior grape growing and winemaking.