When David Stare came to Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley in 1972, he came with the idea of recreating the type of crisp, refreshing, aromatic wines he experienced while visiting France’s Loire Valley.
He is considered a pioneer for being the first to build a winery in the region since Prohibition. He then became the first to plant Sauvignon Blanc grapes against the advice of other local farmers. Similarly, he was also the first to label a wine with the local ‘Dry Creek’ appellation, and to popularize the term “Old Vines” for Zinfandel.
In 1985, Stare became the first winemaker in California to put “Meritage” on a wine label for a Bordeaux-style blend.
The winery is also famous for its iconic sailboat labels, which debuted on Stare’s Reserve Fumé Blanc in 1982.
David Stare and his winery achieved another important and defining milestone. At the time of the winery’s creation, “Dry Creek Valley” wasn’t recognized as an officially designated wine growing region in the State of California. Stare and other local growers banded together to petition for the region to become an official AVA, which was established in 1983.
It was with a great deal of anticipation that I had an opportunity to explore the newest vintages released by this historic winery.
2025 Dry Creek Chenin Blanc
Wilson Ranch, Clarksburg $19
When David Stare set out to create a white wine reminiscent of those of France’s Loire Valley, his journey led him to Clarksburg, California.
It’s rich soil and cool, breezes created ideal conditions for growing Chenin Blanc grapes. For more than 40 years, Dry Creek has partnered with the Wilson family to create a wine that embodies Stare’s vision. Dry Creek’s 2023 vintage was named to the Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2025.
Fermented in stainless steel under controlled cool temperatures for 21 days, the wine has a bright acidity.
Complex flavors of ripe peaches and honeydew melon refresh the palate while the aroma of orange blossoms lingers in the air. Refreshing afternotes of creamy lemon Gelato and hints of chamomile and honey tickle the tongue as the wine glides to a lively finish.
Salmon with fresh dill and a drizzle of lemon on the grill was my first choice for an afternoon meal. Some fresh shucked oysters or a platter of cracked crab legs with lemon butter and crunchy endive or Romaine leaves on the side make for a great start.
2025 Sauvignon Blanc
Dry Creek Valley $26
This wine reflects the vision of the winery’s second generation. President Kim Stare Wallace and her husband Don Wallace (Partner), operate the winery with a renewed vision. Their dedication to creating wines driven by their authentic adherence to the land that created them has produced wines that continue to win awards and, more importantly, gather fans among those who love great wine.
To that end, Dry Creek 2025 Sauvignon Blanc is a crowning achievement. If you’re one of those finicky wine drinkers who say they never liked California Sauvignon Blanc, I direct your attention to Dry Creek.
This is a ‘sav blanc’ that checks off all the boxes for flavor, texture and overall drinkability.
Crafted from distinct vineyard sites, it incorporates two intriguing Sauvignon Blanc clones: Sauvignon Musque and Sauvignon Gris and blends them with a slight touch of Semillon.
Stainless steel fermented for 22 days before extensive barrel aging in acacia, chestnut and neutral French oak barrels, this is a lively, complex wine that vibrates with intensity.
Pineapple, white peach and hints of cilantro and white pepper make this an ideal match with Mexican food or seafood dishes. Ceviche for starters and fish Tacos as a main course are high on my list.
Linguine with clams and shrimp with cilantro or parsley and a splash of the wine into the natural fish juices is all the sauce you need to make this dish shine with the wine.
2022 Heritage Vines Zinfandel
Sonoma County $32
The Grand Finale is the 2022 Heritage Vines Zinfandel. Created from the cuttings from a pre-Prohibition era vineyard and grafted onto disease resistant rootstock, the Heritage Clone was initiated to preserve the tradition and heritage of old Zinfandel vineyards.
This is a wine that commands your attention. Rich with flavors and aromas of black cherries, dark plums and ripe blueberries, it has hints of baking spices and warm cocoa to caress your taste buds.
Great with meats hot off the grill, I had it with grilled short ribs and homemade ‘Loo-siana’ barbecue sauce and a side of warm potato salad with my own hot pickle relish and jalapeño cornbread. I still have some left if you’d like to come over. Drink Responsibly
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