History

In 1974 when the Eisele’s purchased the property they made the very conscious decision to replant the vineyard to the original footprint of what was planted in the 1870’s.  They also decided that they would farm organically.  The first vines planted by the Eisele’s in 1975 were See Clone Cabernet Sauvignon grafted onto St. George rootstock. The vineyard soils have been enriched through use of organic farming practices.  No herbicides, pesticides or chemical fertilizers have been used.  The vineyard is certified organic by both the California Certified Organic Farmers and the California Department of Food and Agriculture.  Throughout the property creeks and associated riparian areas have been protected and enhanced. The distinct nature of the land and microclimate of the Chiles Valley District was formally acknowledged when it became one of the nested American Viticultural Areas of the greater Napa Valley in 1999, thanks in large part to the efforts of Volker Eisele. The second generation, Alexander and Catherine Eisele, are carrying on the legacy.