Long-term Vision
With a focus on regenerative farming, we meticulously oversee every aspect of vineyard management, varietal selection, and clonal experimentation.
Regenerative Farming
We embarked on our wine-making journey with a piece of untouched, virgin land nestled amidst majestic mountains, enveloped by high chaparral. Our goal is to preserve the pristine beauty at Ojai Mountain that greeted us upon arrival, seamlessly integrating our vineyard into the surrounding flora and fauna. To achieve this, we embrace regenerative farming practices that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and the long-term sustainability of our Ojai Mountain vineyard ecosystem while reducing our environmental impact.
Decades of Biodynamic Expertise
Drawing upon Phil Coturri’s extensive expertise in biodynamic and organic farming, our Ojai Mountain vineyard stands as a testament to his pioneering legacy in Sonoma. We take immense pride in working with Phil and adhering to the timeless principle of “building soil” over time. Through techniques such as cover cropping, composting, and reduced tillage, we foster the growth of organic matter within the soil, enriching its structure and enhancing water-retention. This nurtures the vital microorganisms that harmonize with our vineyard’s ecosystem. Ojai Mountain vineyards remain free from synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, instead we use fish and kelp fertilizer and oyster shells to put calcium into the rocky, mountain soils.
Working with Pruning Experts
We are privileged to collaborate with Simonit&Sirch, an esteemed vineyard pruning company founded by Marco Simonit and Pierpaolo Sirch in Italy. Recognized for their unrivaled expertise, Simonit&Sirch prioritize proper training and pruning techniques to safeguard grapevines against diseases. Working in tandem with our Ojai Mountain crew, their experts impart invaluable knowledge about the flow of sap within grapevines, guiding us in pruning practices that optimize healthy sap circulation. At Ojai Mountain our focus lies in fostering the vine’s longevity rather than solely pursuing higher yields. Through this collaboration, we ensure that our vines thrive, producing exceptional grapes that translate into extraordinary Ojai Mountain wines.
Protecting Pollinators
At Ojai Mountain Winery, we're committed to safeguarding and enhancing the bee populations that play a crucial role in our ecosystem. While grapes have the ability to self-pollinate, the surrounding cover crops rely on bees to flourish. Monoculture practices in vineyards can lead to soil degradation and reduced biodiversity. By fostering a harmonious relationship between vines and bees, we contribute to the overall health and vitality of our vineyard. To support our pollinators, we have planted an array of wildflowers and pollinator-friendly plants throughout our vineyard. These vibrant blooms provide them with a diverse selection of nourishing food sources.
Natural Pest Control: Birds Of Prey
We've partnered with the Ojai Raptor Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of birds of prey. Kestrels, owls, hawks, and other birds of prey are natural predators of insects, rodents and other small animals that can cause damage to grapevines. By releasing these birds into our vineyards and providing nesting boxes and perches, we've been able to maintain a healthy ecosystem without relying on harmful pesticides. Through our partnership with the Ojai Raptor Center, we're not only able to benefit our vineyard, but also support the rehabilitation and release of these incredible birds back into the wild.
Brush Fire Maintenance
Located in the mountains of Southern California, our vineyards face the threat of wildfires.
To protect our land from fires and to manage the brush in a natural and sustainable way,
we use controlled grazing by the heads of sheep and goats.
Grazing the brush, the herd helps the plants to rejuvenate and achieve fuller spring growth.
While grazing, the animals make paths perpendicular to the mountain which act as natural
break lines and help to avoid runoffs during the winter rains. ❧