ACORN and Ancient Oak

ACORN and Ancient Oak

PO Box 20 Fulton, CA 95439
acorn.wine

Region: Russian River Valley

Owner: Melissa Moholt-Siebert

Winemaker: Melissa Moholt-Siebert

About: I am thrilled to have the opportunity to continue the legacy of field-blend wines in the Russian River Valley, started by Bill and Betsy Nachbaur when they founded ACORN about 25 years ago. I bought ACORN from Bill and Betsy and am continuing and extending this vision. In this, I get to work with grapes that are not the “usual” for the Russian River Valley — such as Sangiovese, Gruner Veltiner and Cabernet Franc. I make the ACORN wines using family-farmed, field-blend grapes and native yeast fermentation.

What is your favorite undiscovered grape? Gruner Veltliner. I am excited to explore the textural qualities that can be expressed when grown in the Russian River Valley.

What was your first experience with an undiscovered grape? Drinking Pinot Meunier from the Van der Kamp vineyard was a revelation. Related to Pinot Noir, but a character all its own. So ethereal and enticing.

What do you love most about the undiscovered grapes? Helping to expand knowledge and love of grapes other than the “big 5” of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc. There is so much to explore in the world of wine!