Monticello Vineyards

The Corley Family

35 years, 2nd generation, and working together

Jay Corley, purchased an old Napa prune orchard in 1969, following an extensive search for the best land to plant and grow Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes to make wines in the Burgundy style he preferred. Jay's core philosophy of ‘great wines are made in the vineyards’ has been passed down to his three sons, with Kevin tending their 80 acres with loving care, Chris making the wine and Stephen marketing it.

Go behind the vines with Chris Corley, winemaker and Kevin Corley, winegrower. Plus see Pinot Noir in crush.

Hear their insights, as they tell us more about their vineyards, winemaking and the activities going on during September’s harvest season. We thank them for taking time with us in the midst of this peak time.

Monticello Vineyards

“Good wine is a necessity of life to me.” Thomas Jefferson

The property was named after Thomas Jefferson, connecting the Corley family roots to Virginia and honoring a great farming, wine and food enthusiast. The main house is built as a ¾ replica of Jefferson's Monticello estate, adding charm and heritage to a beautiful Oak Knoll district setting.

Monticello Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir 2004

Chris Corley, winemaker, remembers the year he made this wine, when a very hot August moved the picking up 10 days. It has become a favorite of the family and those in the tasting room. ‘Finicky’ is his word for the pinot noir grape. And ‘delicious’ is his word, for this particular wine. Supple, sexy, rich and wonderful with a wide variety of foods.