Calwineries

Branham Estate

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Gary Branham has been making wine since the early 1970s. In 1975, he entered the UC Davis Enology and Viticultural Department as a graduate student. After completing his education, Branham worked as a winemaker in several different countries, including Australia and New Zealand. In 1989, he bought 240 acres in a little known region named Rockpile.

Branham began planting his three acres of Zinfandel vines in 1994. He recently planted 6 more acres of Zinfandel and Petite Sirah. These vines are ideally located on southwest facing hillsides. In addition to his Rockpile estate, Branham owns Obsidian Vineyard and leases Aves Vineyard. Both of these properties are in St Helena.

The Branham 2002 Rockpile Zinfandel was limited to only 250 cases. Primarily made with Rockpile fruit, a touch of Zinfandel from the Chiles Valley AVA was used to balance this remarkable wine. The winery also produces a Cab, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel from the Napa Valley. Additionally, Branham offers a Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah blend called Jazz.