Stéphane Vivier joined our team in 2015. A native of Burgundy, Vivier’s old-world sensibilities are ideally suited to working with our Pinot Noir varietal at the Russian River site. He obtained degrees in viticulture and enology from Université de Bourgogne, and cultivated his vineyard and cellar skills at Pommard, Meursault, and Chassagne-Montrachet.

Tobias Glen, our estate vineyard, is a 19-acre parcel located in one of the most cherished micro-regions in the Russian River Valley. Ideally suited for Pinot Noir, the predominant soil type is Goldridge. Its excellent drainage allows us to create a balanced vineyard ecosystem yielding exceptional, high-quality fruit. In 2020, our attention to detail in pollinator conservation and habitat health has granted us to be Bee Friendly Farming Certified.

2020 growing season enjoyed a near-perfect growing conditions, an August heat spell accelerated ripening. The crop was expected to be smaller than average, producing smaller berries but . A mid August lighting storm resulted in a dramatic turn for Sonoma County. We at Tobias Glen feel so blessed to have weathered the relentless storm unscathed to shepherd another great vintage into barrels. The wines made in 2020 will be unforgettable. The nose is intense and opulent, showing black cherry and warm spices. On the palette the layers are soft of fruit followed by mineral and spices with underlying richness. The finish is light footed and playful, reminiscent of Pommard with its grip and minerality.