Sonoma County Winegrape Commission

Jim Pratt owns, leases and manages 175 acres of six grape varieties in the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast. His grapes go in Imagery Viognier and MacPhail Pinot Noir. He loves fresh abalone and Pinot Noir.

Grower names:

Jim Pratt

Vineyard/Ranch name:

Cornerstone Certified Vineyard

Appellation:

Russian River and Sonoma Coast

How long have you farmed this property?

18 years

Total acreage managed and grape varieties planted:

We own, lease, or manage over 175 acres of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Viognier, Dolcetto, and grape rootstock.

Why did you become a grape grower?

Early in my career, I started working at Sonoma Grapevines and so I was around vines. I put in a vineyard first as a registered increase block, and then kept planting for fruit.

Farming philosophy:

Give the customer the best product possible; respect your crew and neighbors; and remember your vineyard is a reflection of you.

What changes in farming practice do you anticipate making in the next 5 years?

More use of sensors and data collectors in decision making for irrigation, harvest, and spraying.

What is your worst horror story in grape growing?

I have one neighbor who just doesn’t like what we do, and has contacted every government agency possible to issue a complaint. To date, no agency has found any problem or infraction.

Is your vineyard designated on any wine labels?

Yes – Imagery Viognier and MacPhail Pinot Noir

What is your favorite food/wine combination?

Abalone and Pinot Noir.

Employee note:

I have been lucky to have a terrific crew; some of whom I have worked with for over 20 years.

Advice for young people:

Work hard at improving your product, learn from your mistakes, and know what it is that you really enjoy about the job. Be patient; the breaks will come with hard work and patience.

Any other information that you would like to include about yourself, the ranch, your business, family or history of the area:

BI’m currently on the SRJC Ag Trust, and had the privilege of being the chairman for the 2005 fundraiser, the AgStravanganza. The event raised over $500,000 for the SRJC Shone Farm and the Warren G. Dutton, Jr. Ag Pavilion. My first job in the industry was working for Rich Kunde. We’ve been best friends ever since. I am an avid abalone diver and enjoy donating the fruits of my diving labor to different charitable auctions.