For four decades, Owner/Grower Ken Nerlove has poured his heart and soul into cultivating grapes in the unique terroir of Napa Valley. Nestled atop Jamieson Canyon, his eight-acre vineyard boasts an enviable location, particularly for Pinot Noir. “I live on this land as well as farm it,” Ken proudly declares. “Back in 1983, we were the pioneers who planted the first vines here.”
A pivotal moment occurred in 1992, nearly a decade after those initial plantings, when Ken teamed up with his friend and Consulting Winemaker, Kent Rassmussen, to create high-quality Pinot Noir. This endeavor gave birth to Elkhorn Peak Cellars, named after the towering mountain that stands watch over their vineyards. At an impressive 1,336 feet, Elkhorn Peak is the tallest summit in Jamieson Canyon.
Today, this micro-winery is a cherished family-owned and operated establishment, fueled by Ken’s passion and guided by his daughter, Winemaker Elise Nerlove. Their commitment to crafting exceptional wines in limited quantities sets them apart. Elise explains, “We take immense pride in our laid-back, non-pretentious approach. With an annual production of less than 1,000 cases, our wines remain truly exclusive treasures, not readily available in local restaurants or wine shops. Instead, we prefer to share the fruits of our labor directly with those who appreciate our handcrafted creations.”
Elkhorn Peak Cellars stands as a testament to the enduring dedication and vision of Ken Nerlove and his family. Their vineyard, perched atop the picturesque Jamieson Canyon, continues to produce remarkable Pinot Noir, a testament to their love for the land and their commitment to crafting wines that capture the essence of Napa Valley’s unique terroir. With each bottle, they invite wine enthusiasts to savor the beauty and flavor of this exceptional region, one sip at a time.
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