Vineyard development and management activities at Six Sigma Ranch & Vineyard are directed by Bella Vista Farming Company, owned by David Weiss. Bella Vista’s general philosophy of farming and its specific agricultural practices reflect a commitment to sustainable farming practices that are environmentally sound, socially responsible, and economically viable.

Else’s Vineyard

Else’s Vineyard is located about two miles east of the front gate in the hills by Asbill Valley. It was planted in 2001 on a picturesque slope near the site of the stage coach house. It contains approximately 1.8 acres Cabernet Sauvignon and 0.5 acres Cabernet Franc. Rootstocks are 101-14 and 3309. Spacing: 5 by 4. We had our first harvest in October 2004.

Christian’s Vineyard

Christian’s vineyard was planted in 2002 in the Diamond Mine area in the southern part of the ranch, about four miles from the front gate. The Diamond Mine derives its name from the “Lake County Diamonds,” small volcanic-made pieces of quarts that litter the ground and glimmer in the sunlight.

This vineyard contains approximately 2.0 acres Pinot Noir, 5.3 acres Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2.2 acres Tempranillo. Rootstocks are 101-14 and 44-53. Spacing: 6 by 5. We had the first harvest in 2005.

Michael’s Vineyard

Michael’s Vineyard is located in the hills by Asbill Valley, adjacent to our front gate at Spruce Grove Road. This vineyard contains approximately 12 acres of Sauvignon Blanc vines, placed in irregular blocks between oak trees. Although the irregular blocks are less cost-efficient to develop, we believe it is worth the extra effort to keep the natural image. Rootstocks are 101-14, 5BB, SO4, St. George, and 110R. Spacing: 8 by 5. The first harvest was in 2006.

Further Development in the Diamond Mine.

We have obtained a permit to plant additionally up to 130 acres of vineyard in the Diamond Mine area.

In the fall of 2007 and the spring of 2008 we planted the first 20 acres, Marianne and Annette's Vineyard.