Sonoma, California – October 25, 2023 – Meet the man known as ‘The Godfather’ of Sonoma Wine Country, Phil Coturri. As we traverse the rocky vineyards on Moon Mountain, just outside of Sonoma, aboard an ATV, Phil Coturri halts for a moment to gaze at a steep hillside row of Cabernet Franc. “The fruit that comes off the top is a little different than the fruit that comes off the bottom,” he reflects. “My job is to create uniformity out of this chaotic environment. I operate on chaos because I live in chaos.”
The word “chaos” has been a recurring theme in our conversation, a reflection of his approach and, perhaps, a family obsession. “We joke all the time that that’s just the Italian in us,” remarks his son Sam Coturri, who manages the family’s Winery Sixteen 600. “We always want to figure out the hardest possible way to do something.”
Being a pioneer of organic grape growing in the late 1970s, when chemical farming was the norm, was a formidable challenge in itself. Yet, Phil Coturri didn’t stop there. He ventured into cultivating rugged, biodynamic vineyards that are notoriously challenging to harvest. These vineyards constitute the majority of the 700 acres he manages with Enterprise Vineyards today, with some slopes as steep as 40% grade.
Coturri’s journey is a testament to his unyielding commitment to sustainable and biodynamic farming practices. His innovative approach has not only pushed the boundaries of viticulture but also made a significant impact on the world of Sonoma winemaking.
As the man behind Enterprise Vineyards, Phil Coturri has crafted a legacy of excellence and environmental stewardship. His story serves as an inspiration to both the wine industry and future generations of winemakers. Phil Coturri, ‘The Godfather’ of Sonoma Wine Country, has carved a path through the chaos of traditional viticulture to pave the way for a sustainable and dynamic future in the world of wine.
