Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/142283
A year later, in 2007, the Terlatos purchased the historic Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, first planted in 1971 by Richard Sanford and Michael Benedict. Prior to this time, the Terlato family and other producers were buying fruit off the property, which produces stunning Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. "There were sections of the vineyard that were noticeably unhealthy," says Fennell, who, with his team, went block by block through the vineyard, evaluating the health of each site. In 2008, Sanford Winery began replanting, redesigning rows to create greater density between the vines, increasing stress and potential. Thanks to the vision and support of the Terlato family, 70 acres have been replanted and added to the remaining 74 acres of older vines. Meeting of Like Minds "I first talked to Michael Benedict a little over a year and a half ago," Fennell tells THE TASTING PANEL of their initial conversation. "We had several fascinating conversations regarding the early days of his pioneering venture, including the selection of the site and vine material. Then in 2012 I got the great pleasure to sell a little S&B fruit to Michael and friends at Lavender Oak Ranch. They are continuing to work with this amazing vineyard in 2013. Getting to know Michael and to learn about this property in much greater detail than I had previously has helped my understanding of the vineyard and has really added to whole experience. Michael has truly painted a picture from its beginnings. I admire his continuing passion for the property, and I am humbled by his compliments about our stewardship today." How It Began Michael Benedict was the first to plant a vineyard in Santa Barbara County, creatLike a movie that unfolds with a flash- ing Sanford & Benedict Vineyard 42 years ago in what would later become the back, Michael Benedict takes us to 1971, Sta. Rita Hills AVA. On his right is Sanford winemaker and General Manager Steve when he was in search of the right place Fennell, the current custodian of the land. to plant Pinot Noir in California. "I even The property was a former lima and garbanzo bean farm checked out the vineyards on Santa Cruz Island, the largest along Santa Rosa Road, which possessed a "zone of sunshine of the Channel Islands, off the coast of Santa Barbara. I from May through October." Benedict points out, "but where wondered how they could possibly grow grapes there." it never gets very hot." His quest would land him in northern Santa Barbara When Sanford and Benedict saw the property, it was home County, in the Santa Ynez Valley, in the appellation now to cattle. "It looked like the Wild West." known as Sta. Rita Hills (for legal reasons, the official AVA But they planted Pinot Noir, despite the most "influential name is abbreviated). "Choosing a climate was of utmost naysayers" from U.C. Davis, who came to view the property importance," Benedict stresses. He researched the geograand its fruit when the pair began their efforts in 1971. phy and the climate in the area for years before making his "They told us, 'Young men, you are making a big mistake decision. "When I looked at this property, I said to myself, 'It by planting red varieties here; they'll never ripen enough," could happen here.'" july 2013 / the tasting panel / 123 TP0713_100-148.indd 123 6/24/13 6:04 PM