Destination Valley – Mendielle Vertu

After years of convincing that it is more peaceful to live in the country than the city, Manuel Gotera and Bently Luneau realized their dream when they found a 12 acre vineyard in Ukiah Valley, a flat bench land along the Russian River planted with Old Zinfandel and Merlot vines. After making a few trips from the San Francisco, Destination Valley Vineyards became a reality. The first year brought out many challenges and changes including their goal towards organic certification and to practice sustainable farming. Their ties and respect for the land and passion for winemaking brought them to producing their first artisan wine brand, Mendielle Vertu, dedicated to their city turned ranch dog, Mendi, which had given them great company in the vineyard and served as the guardian. Finally, their first year came to fruition with a great vintage of their 2006 Proprietary Red Merlot and two high-end wines with the help of their consulting winemaker, Kian Tavakoli from Clos du Val. These reserve wines feature the first Opera wine labels from works of the world renowned artist, Rafal Olbinski to compliment the artistry and beauty of this vintage.