About Us

A Place Less Traveled

and how Renard Creek came about.

The Journey

In 2017, while living in Europe, my wife and I purchased a vineyard property in Mendocino County, 110 miles north of San Francisco. Turns out, this somewhat unknown wine region has beautiful scenery and award winning wineries.

Two years later, my wife Judy and I said “Adieu” to Paris, and moved back to the US and our country house. What an amazing place to experience: Gentle hills, majestic redwood trees, rugged coast line, beautiful climate year round, and very nice people.

With iconic wineries as neighbors, I wanted to share their wines with more than just our family and friends. Thus began the journey of Renard Creek, and now, my online wine shop is open for business.

I hope you enjoy our selections. Cheers!

     

    Wine bottle next to grapes and vines on slate surface.

     

    Our AVA Focus

    Rows of grapes growing in a vineyard much like those in Mendocino County in Northern California.

     

    The Mendocino County AVA (American Viticultural Area) is situated along the northern coast of California stretching from the Pacific Ocean to rugged mountains east. There are over 500 vineyards and about 2500 acres planted.

    Its diversity allows for the cultivation of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and other cool-climate varieties where the maritime influence moderates the temperature. Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Sangiovese thrive in the inland areas of Redwood Valley, Cole Ranch, Potter Valley, Ukiah Valley. This wine region is also leading in sustainable farming, and over 20 percent of the grapes are certified organic.

     

    Sonoma County AVA is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and world-class wine production. It is one of the premier wine regions in the United States, and it encompasses a diverse range of microclimates and soil types that contribute to the production of a wide variety of wines. It covers a vast area, with over 400 wineries spread across its various subregions. Some of the notable subregions include:

    Russian River Valley: Known for its outstanding Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines, with a cool climate influenced by the nearby Russian River.

    Dry Creek Valley: Famous for its Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc production, characterized by warm days and cool nights.

    Alexander Valley: Known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay production, featuring a warmer climate.

    Sonoma Coast: Produces excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay due to its cool, coastal climate.

    Petaluma Gap: Known for its wind-swept vineyards, this region specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

    Lake County AVA, just 20 miles north of Napa Valley, is a pristine wine area in the heart of the Mayacamas and Vaca Mountain ranges. With the cleanest air in California, the oldest lake in the continental United States, and a variety of volcanic to alluvial soils, some of the best Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon come from this unique terroir.

    About 180 growers tend to 9500 acres of vineyards, planted often above 1,500 feet. The higher elevation causes higher UV light levels, promoting phenolic intensity with balance. More than 25% of vineyard acreage is certified sustainable.

     

    Learn About Key Characteristics of Our Wineries