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Preserving California’s
Historic Vineyards
OLD VINES
Preserving California’s
Preserving California’s
Historic Vineyards
Turley Wine Cellars was born in the heart of Napa Valley in 1993, the vision of former emergency room physician Larry Turley, who turned from saving lives to safeguarding something quieter, but no less vital—the living history of California’s vineyards. Having first helped shape Frog’s Leap alongside John Williams, Larry set out to create something deeply rooted in the past, yet alive in the present.
Turley is devoted to crafting wines that tell stories—drawn from vineyards scattered across California, many of them planted in the late 1800s. These ancient vines, gnarled and resilient, yield Zinfandel and Petite Syrah with a sense of place and time that cannot be replicated. Over the years, we have made wine from over 50 sites across the state.
By championing organic farming and old vine vineyards, Turley does more than make wine—it preserves a fragile legacy. Each bottle is an act of reverence, a way of honoring California’s historic landscapes and ensuring that these vineyards and the culture they embody endure for generations to come.
1850s
Olive grove planted on former Rancho Carne Humana land (later known as the Turley Estate)
1885
Ueberroth Vineyard planted, just West of Paso Robles, CA
1886
Bechthold Vineyard Cinsault planted in Lodi, CA
1903
First engine powered flight, piloted by Orville Wright
1915
Zampatti Vineyard planted
1920s
Vineyard 101 planted
1934
Pesenti Winery bonded in Templeton, CA
1945
The Dusi family plants their vineyard
1950s
Whitney Tennessee planted in Alexander Valley, CA
1978
Frog Farm (Turley Estate) Purchased in St. Helena
1981
Inaugural Vintage of Frog's Leap
1993
Inaugural Vintage of Turley Wine Cellars
1999
Rattlesnake Planted
2000
Pesenti Winery Purchased by Turley
2003
Pesenti barrel room, San Simeon Earthquake
2010
First vintage Turley Cabernet
2012
Cobb Vineyard Purchased
2013
First Vintage of Rose
Farming
Land first, always
At Turley, the land comes first. Every decision we make begins with a commitment to the health of our vineyards and the ecosystems that surround them. Through organic farming and dry-farming practices, we encourage our vines to reach deep into the earth, finding their own balance while conserving one of California’s most precious resources—water. We cultivate vineyards that are resilient, expressive, and alive. These practices not only protect the land, but also help safeguard the health and well-being of the communities and people who live and work among the vines every day. The result is more than exceptional wine; it is a lasting stewardship of the land, ensuring that these remarkable vineyards endure for generations to come.
Our commitment to preserving California’s historic vineyards extends beyond the properties we farm ourselves. We work closely with a network of dedicated growers who share our belief that old vines are an irreplaceable agricultural and cultural resource. Through long-standing partnerships—many spanning decades—we collaborate on farming practices that promote vineyard health, soil stewardship, and sustainability while maintaining the unique character of each site. By providing a stable market for fruit from these historic vineyards and encouraging thoughtful farming practices, we help ensure that some of California’s oldest and most distinctive vineyards remain productive for future generations.
Winemaking
100% grapes
Our ingredient list is simple: grapes. We farm with the belief that exceptional wine begins in the vineyard, and our winemaking is guided by a minimalist approach that allows each site to express itself naturally. Organic farming, native yeast fermentations, and a restrained hand in the cellar ensure that the vineyard remains the primary voice in every bottle. The result is a collection of wines that capture the individuality of California's historic vineyard sites with clarity, authenticity, and a true sense of place.
“I've never met a vineyard so weathered I was not driven to coax it back to life”
WHere California's
wine story still grows
Farming Practices
Dry farming
Dry farming is one of the most important ways we care for our vineyards and conserve natural resources. Many of our sites rely on seasonal rainfall rather than irrigation, encouraging vines to develop deep root systems that foster resilience, balance, and a stronger connection to the soils in which they grow. This practice not only preserves precious water resources, but also produces grapes with greater concentration, character, and a true expression of place.
While dry farming is central to our approach, some of our vineyards are irrigated—most often younger vines that benefit from additional support as they establish themselves. As these vines mature, we work toward transitioning them to dry-farmed conditions whenever possible.
Our Values
Integrity & Stewardship
We are true to our people, vineyards, and wines—guided by deep respect for the land and those who care for it.
Generosity & Character
Like our wines, we are generous in spirit and rich in character, always striving to give more than expected and leave a lasting impression.
Joy & Community
We find joy in the journey—in shared laughter, meaningful work, and putting the wellbeing of others first.
Growth & Curiosity
We believe in continuous learning and growth.
Integrity in Action
In every season, we try to do what is right—steadfast, accountable, and true, even when no one is watching.
Purposeful Farming & Winemaking
We make with with intention, embracing time-honored practices to protect the health of the land for generations to come.
