Medlock Ames

Founded in 1998 by friends Chris Medlock James and Ames Morison, we organically farm 50 acres total of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon blanc using progressive methods in a holistic and sustainable way. In the cellar, gravity flow, native yeasts and extreme hand sorting of fruit combine to create natural winemaking that reflects a sense of place as well as vintage. Our goal is to produce interesting and delicious wines in an ethical and sustainable fashion. All of the vineyards are hillside or rolling bench land - predominately heavy clay with patches of gravel and very thin top soil. Since purchasing the original acreage in 1998, we’ve spent time replanting where appropriate and introducing higher density plantings with more clonal diversity to create increased choices and components for our wines. Medlock Ames uses animals to mow and fertilize permanent cover crops instead of soil compacting and energy thirsty tractors. We work with nature instead of against her to provide creative solutions to our farming problems, relying largely on companion planting, beneficial insects and opening up the estate to local wildlife that help patrol and maintain a balance, naturally. Wildlife corridors span the property allowing local beasts to traverse our 400 acres rather than become captive here. Our entire estate is powered by seven distinct solar arrays that cover our annual needs and we collect winter rains for our summer irrigation rather than use well water