Located in Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley, Dry Creek Vineyard is a winery that’s always marched to its own beat. Family-owned since its founding in 1972, this trailblazing estate helped revive the region post-Prohibition and built its legacy on both resilience and a deep respect for tradition. Today, with second-generation leadership at the helm, Dry Creek Vineyard continues to shine as a champion of classic varietals, sustainable farming, and authentic, expressive wines — each bottle a toast to their independent spirit and rich, decades-long heritage.
Last October, I had the opportunity to speak to the second-generation leader, Kim Stare Wallace, who described herself as the “firstborn son that her dad never had.”
Founded in 1972 by David S. Stare, Dry Creek Vineyard’s story is one of adaptation, innovation, and an a dedication to its craft and community.
The winery was the first new winery built in Dry Creek Valley after Prohibition in 1972 and has been owned by two generations of the same family. The original land was a prune farm that was made up of 55 acres. The valley is about 16 miles long and 2 miles wide, known for its gravelly, sandy loam soils. The climate is warm by day and cool by night. The area has evolved from primarily prune farms to more than 70 wineries and nearly 9,000 acres of vineyards.
Dry Creek Vineyard’s inspiration from the Loire Valley is rooted in its founder’s experiences and vision. A vacation in Burgundy and Bordeaux in the 1970’s ignited his passion for wine, and he first considered opening his winery in France. He decided instead to follow his passion to California, but the winery is built in a French chateau style.
The wines I tried:
- 2023 Dry Creek Vineyard Dry Chenin Blanc – notes of green apple, pear, honeydew, citrus, jasmine and a touch of minerality. I am a Chenin Blanc fan and enjoyed this one.
- 2021 Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Franc – notes of blackberry, currant, dried herbs, tobacco, bell pepper, and crushed violets. Lots of depth and structure.
- 2021 Dry Creek Vineyard ‘The Mariner’ – notes of black cherry, vanilla, spice, and mocha. It really changed in the glass as time passed.
- 2021 Dry Creek Vineyard Spencer’s Hill Zinfandel – notes of red and black fruit, pepper, baking spice, and cocoa.
- 2021 Dry Creek Vineyard Endeavour Cabernet Sauvignon – this is a blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot. Notes of black currant, black cherry, cranberry, rosemary, mocha and clove. Lots of fruit and structure. A great aging wine.
Dry Creek Vineyard stands as a testament to what happens when vision, resilience, and family stewardship intersect in the world of wine. From its beginnings as a post-Prohibition gamble to its current status as a Sonoma Valley icon, the winery’s unwavering commitment to independence and authentic expression continues to shape every bottle.
