After more than 30 years of growing legendary grapes, Riverbench Vineyard has become Riverbench Vineyard & Winery. The fertile vineyard, located on the southeastern edge of the Santa Maria Valley, has long been a resource for many vintners who have revered the distinctive flavors of its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. One of the most notable is the renowned winemaker Chuck Ortman, who first discovered Riverbench in its early days.“From the beginning, Riverbench was a top-producing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyard,” Chuck recalls. He owes this in large part to the soil, which has a great deal of sand and gravel for excellent drainage.Chuck, whose illustrious winemaking career includes starting the Meridian label, working in Napa’s early days at Heitz Cellar, and consulting for some of the Napa Valley’s premium wineries including Far Niente, Shafer Vineyards, and Cain Vineyard & Winery, has often sourced Riverbench fruit for his wines. When a group of local families purchased the property in 2004, they decided to produce their own label using small quantities of their exceptional fruit. Wisely, they contacted Chuck. He became consulting winemaker for Riverbench Vineyard & Winery in 2006. Chuck’s first efforts for Riverbench were realized when the 2006 varietals, which included both Estate and Reserve Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, were released. Accolades include 92 points from Wine Enthusiast Magazine for the 2008 Mesa Pinot Noir, as well as a host of medals and other awards. Although Riverbench Vineyard & Winery remains dedicated to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the portfolio is destined to increase to include new interpretations of these noble varietals.The Riverbench tasting room is a newly restored 1920s Craftsman-style house on the historic Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. The outdoor patio is ideal for a picnic, and vineyard and winery tours are offered by appointment. Riverbench wines are made in very limited quantities, so many selections are available exclusively through the tasting room. Tasting Room Open Daily 10–4
