As the autumn sun lazily creeps over Calistoga, Dawnine Dyer stands amidst her 2.5-acre vineyard, nestled on the picturesque slopes of Diamond Mountain. Gazing at the plump clusters of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that bask beneath their leafy canopies, she cradles a steaming cup of coffee. These grapes, awaiting the perfect moment for harvest, are destined to be transformed into an exquisite elixir commanding prices ranging from $100 to $150 per bottle.
Navigating the intricacies of scheduling a grape harvest is a task fraught with challenges, especially following this year’s unpredictable weather patterns in Napa Valley, which delayed numerous harvests. A slight misjudgment in timing can significantly impact the quality of the wine. Dawnine is committed to ensuring her precious grapes are picked at precisely the right moment.
Dawnine reflects on the inherent risks of agriculture, acknowledging, “Agriculture is pretty risky. In my career, I certainly have watched people who thought they were in complete control and realized suddenly that they weren’t.” This perspective is not unfamiliar to someone who has dedicated her life to the art of winemaking.
Dawnine Dyer, a celebrated winemaker with a rich history in the world of sparkling wines, has now embarked on a new chapter of her illustrious career. She and her husband, Bill, have shifted their focus to create Dyer Vineyard, a boutique winery specializing in the crafting of premium Cabernet Sauvignon.
With a reputation founded on a deep understanding of the complexities of winemaking, Dawnine Dyer brings her exceptional skill and dedication to this latest endeavor. Her meticulous attention to detail, an asset honed in the world of sparkling wine production, is sure to yield a collection of Cabernet Sauvignon wines of unparalleled quality and distinction.
As the sunlight dances across her vineyard, Dawnine Dyer’s journey in winemaking continues, and her pursuit of excellence evolves in this tranquil corner of Calistoga. Dyer Vineyard is poised to become a haven for wine connoisseurs seeking wines that encapsulate the essence of Cabernet Sauvignon’s finest expressions.
