Scott & Judy Pruett

Scott Pruett, a celebrated race car driver with a career spanning five decades and multiple championships, has seamlessly transitioned his passion for excellence from the racetrack to viticulture. Alongside his wife Judy, Scott established Pruett Vineyard in 2006 in Auburn, California. His dedication to precision and quality is evident in every aspect of the winemaking process, from meticulous vineyard management to hands-on production techniques. Scott's commitment has led Pruett Vineyard to produce award-winning wines that have earned top scores from Wine Spectator, solidifying his reputation as a distinguished vintner in the Sierra Foothills region.

The Sierra Foothills, located along the western edge of California’s Sierra Nevada mountain range, is a historic wine region that traces its roots back to the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s. This AVA spans multiple counties and is celebrated for its rugged terrain, warm days, and cool nights. These conditions create a microclimate ideal for producing bold and expressive wines, especially red varietals. Vineyards are often planted at higher elevations, ranging from 1,200 to over 3,000 feet, benefiting from volcanic and granite-rich soils that impart complexity and minerality to the wines. Zinfandel is the flagship grape of the Sierra Foothills, thriving in the region’s hot summer days and cool evening breezes. Other varietals, such as Barbera, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, also thrive here, showcasing the region’s versatility. A curious fact about the Sierra Foothills is its legacy of old vines—many vineyards date back to the late 19th century, yielding low-production, high-concentration wines that reflect the area’s historical significance. With its combination of distinctive terroir and a legacy of winemaking, the Sierra Foothills stands as a testament to California’s viticulturally diversity.