Turley Wine Cellars: California's Vine Preservationists

Founded in 1993 by former emergency room physician Larry Turley, this Napa-based winery has become California's most dedicated guardian of historic vineyards. Under winemaker Tegan Passalacqua—a founding member of the Historic Vineyard Society—Turley rescues ancient vine sites from the late 1800s that others have abandoned to housing development. Working with over 50 vineyards across California, they practice certified organic farming and low-intervention winemaking, using native yeasts and minimal manipulation to let each site's unique character shine.

From their multi-vineyard Old Vines blend to the cult-status Hayne Petite Syrah with its microscopic 1.1 tons per acre yield, these wines showcase what happens when century-old vines meet passionate preservation. The result: structured, food-friendly wines that pair beautifully with everything from Korean BBQ to Ethiopian stews, proving that California's viticulture heritage delivers both historical significance and modern versatility.