Whaler Vineyards

In 1972, Russ and Annie Nyborg decided they wanted a home with some land in Northern California. As a San Francisco Bay Bar Pilot, Russ had been a seafarer all his working life. Together, they decided it was time to get a little land-locked.

After looking for months for a place that "felt right," Russ and Annie discovered a beautiful piece of land in Mendocino County between Hopland and Ukiah, overlooking the Russian River valley. They found their home, and a new profession.

"The man who sold us the land had 10,000 Zinfandel vines on order and we decided to make it part of the deal." They planted 24 acres and Whaler Vineyard was born.

Over the first nine years, the Nyborgs and their Whaler Vineyard developed a reputation for producing excellent Zinfandel grapes, which they sold to other North Coast vintners. In 1981, Russ and Annie decided to start producing small quantities of their own Zinfandel.

In spite of working full time as a Bar Pilot, Russ worked the vineyard and managed the winemaking process. Annie took care of the winery business and became the winery spokesperson. From the beginning, Russ and Annie have been committed to porducing the best Zinfandel in California. Today, many think the Nyborgs have succeeded.

Their Flagship Zinfandel is consistently praised by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate ("Rich, silky, elegant..."), has been awarded the prestigious Double Gold Medal by the San Francisco Fair wine competition, and a multitude of other notable recognitions.