Rideau Vineyard

Rideau Vineyard

1562 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, CA 93463
rideauvineyard.com

Region: Los Olivos District, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County

Owner: Martin Gauthier

Winemaker: Adrienne Rule

About: Planted exclusively to Rhône varietals, our vineyard was originally planted to five blocks in 1997 and expanded to a sixth block in 2017. Each clone is planted and farmed in the location and soil that best suits it. Its deep, well-drained soil, combined with the coastal weather influences of the nearby Pacific Ocean, leads to the delicately balanced flavor profile of distinct minerality, baking spices, and earthiness that we covet in our estate wines. With a new vineyard planted in 2023, we have expanded our estate program and added additional varieties.

What is your favorite undiscovered grape? Carignane

What was your first experience with an undiscovered grape? The first time I discovered Viognier, I was unimpressed. But the first time I was able to WORK with Viognier and produce it, I discovered that it was a beautiful, expressive variety that can age for years. After that, I started making it in different styles to explore the possibilities.

What do you love most about the undiscovered grapes? Watching people try them for the first time and realize that there are so many more wine options than they thought.