September 10^th , World Suicide Prevention Day, is day we have chosen to release our first single-vineyard Pinot Noir, The Tanaka Project.

Our dear friend Ron Tanaka, an artist, poet and scholar, came into our lives in 1983. Often finding inspiration for his works in our vineyards and wines, Ron loved our Pinots best. He created two sets of poetry directly tied to Mount Eden, The Mount Eden Poems and Mountain Wines; A Girl Grows Up on Mount Eden amoungst the many pieces he wrote.

Sadly, Ron took his own life in 2007, leaving us heartbroken.

In 2017 we decided to honor our friend by renaming this Pinot Noir vineyard Tanaka and producing this special wine as a tribute to him. This vineyard site was one of Ron’s favorite spots on the property and has a sense of terroir distinct from our other Estate Pinot Noir vineyards: Only three barrels (approximately 75 cases) of this single-vineyard Pinot Noir were produced.

Twenty-five percent of the purchase price will be donated to support the National Alliance on Mental Illness’ Santa Clara County, CA chapter’s life-saving mental health services. The support for such programs is needed now more than ever, given the emotional and financial pressures spurred by COVID-19.