Fred Nunes and his wife, Wendy, decided to plant 35 acres of Pinot Noir in 1997 when Fred retired from a 30-year career as a firefighting helicopter pilot. The land came to Fred from his grandfather, Fred Muzio, who bought it in the 1950’s to farm hay and raise pigs and as a weekend spot for the family to gather.

Grower and Spouse names:

Frederic J. and Wendy Fowler Nunes

Vineyard/Ranch name:

Nunes Vineyard

Appellation:

Russian River Valley

How long have you farmed this property?

After two years of planning and preparation, we planted all the acreage to winegrapes in the Spring of 2000

Total acreage managed and grape varieties planted:

35 acres, 10 blocks of Pinot Noir, four Dijon Clones

Why did you become a grape grower?

Fred grew up listening to stories of winemaking and brandy distilling from his Italian grandfather while farming row crop with his father. At age 12 he had a small vineyard down the south side of the house and his first vinegar barrel. Those interests never left. When it came time to retire from a career as a firefighting helicopter pilot, the transition back to farming and grapes was natural. Having picked up a degree in systematic biology and ecology along the way, Fred saw the opportunity to meld his interest in science with his love of grape growing.

Farming philosophy:

We live in our vineyard and we know every plant. Our grape growing philosophy is based on sound science and we use sustainable farming practices because it makes sense. Fred considers himself part of the Vineyard’s terroir, responsible for maintaining its harmony within the larger system. Our style is hands-on. Fred runs the vineyard, trains and monitors the crew, implements his own integrated pest management program and does all his own tractor work.

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

We anticipate that changes will be necessary as variables in the vineyard change. The vineyard is dynamic and we’re always on the look out for signs and symptoms that would allow for correction towards our goal of a healthy vineyard and good wine.

What was your worst horror story in grape growing?

In the spring of 2001, the beginning of our second growing season, we were so excited to see the tender new shoots over the whole vineyard, when frost withered them all. The plants sprouted again, but we’d hoped we might get a little fruit that year. That’s farming!

Is your vineyard designated on any wine labels?

Our fruit is currently going to Caymus/Belle Glos, and will be designated by Papapietro-Perry, Matrix, and Zapaltas starting with 2008 vintage. Nunes Vineyard designates you can get now: Blackstone Nunes Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir (Kenwood tasting room) and St. Rose Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.

What is your favorite food/wine combination?

Pinot Noir and minestrone soup made with ingredients fresh from the garden.

Employee note: Greatest length of service or other item of interest about your workforce.

Mario Rodrigues has been with us since we planted and is the best worker a vineyard could have. With his nephew, Gustavo and his Uncle Norberto, the crew is now three.