Winemaking at Knoll Vineyards

Our Winery

At Knoll Vineyards, our winemaking philosophy is deeply rooted in tradition and a profound respect for our premium, estate grown grapes. We believe that the qualities of each vintage should be dictated by the unique characteristics of our vineyard, allowing the terroir to express itself fully in every bottle.

To capture the essence of our vineyard, we embrace minimal intervention winemaking practices. We rely on native yeast for fermentation, allowing the grapes' natural microflora to guide the transformation of grape juice into wine. By doing so, we preserve the distinct flavors and aromas that are inherent to our grapes, resulting in wines that truly showcase the terroir.

grape leaves

Throughout the winemaking process, we refrain from using additives or excessive manipulation. We believe that great wines are created in the vineyard, and our role as winemakers is to nurture and guide the grapes' journey from vine to bottle. By employing gentle and traditional winemaking procedures, we ensure that the true character of our grapes shines through.

During aging, we turn to French oak barrels to provide subtle enhancements to our wines. The use of these barrels imparts delicate flavors and textures that complement the natural qualities of the grapes, adding depth and complexity to the final product.

barrels used in winemaking

Every step of our winemaking journey is a labor of love and dedication. We employ hand punch downs during fermentation, carefully extracting the desired flavors and tannins from the skins to achieve optimal balance and structure. Additionally, we insist on harvesting our grapes by hand, recognizing the importance of meticulous selection and handling to preserve the integrity of the fruit.

As a boutique artisan winery, our sole focus is on producing the best wine we can using time-honored, old world methods. We believe that these traditional techniques, coupled with the unique attributes of our vineyard, allow us to craft wines of exceptional quality and character. Our dedication to these principles drives us to create wines that are not only delicious but also a true reflection of our passion and commitment to the art of winemaking.

a bin full of grapes for winemaking