Edmeades Winery, located in the picturesque Anderson Valley of Mendocino County, has a rich history dating back to 1963. It all began with Dr. Donald Edmeades, a cardiologist from Pasadena, who planted grapes in the small town of Philo, becoming the first modern-day grower in the area. His son, Deron, took over the winery in 1972 and quickly gained a reputation for producing exceptional wines from Anderson Valley grapes.
The winery's focus on crafting lusty, mountain Zinfandels earned them gold medals and high praise from wine critics. In fact, Edmeades Winery played a significant role in bringing recognition to the intense, hillside Mendocino Zins.
In 1988, Edmeades Winery was acquired by Jess Jackson, making it one of the first wineries to join the prestigious Jackson Family Wines portfolio. Under this new ownership, the tradition of producing high-quality Mendocino Zinfandels continued. In 2017, Dave Ready took over as chief winemaker, ensuring the legacy of Edmeades Winery lives on.
Mendocino County has a long and diverse history, with Native American tribes settling in the area thousands of years ago. European explorers arrived in the 16th century, followed by a booming lumber industry in the 1800s. The county was declared one of the first in California in 1850, but unfortunately, this also resulted in the destruction of most of the Old Growth Redwoods.
After the Gold Rush, Italian-American immigrants flocked to Mendocino, drawn to the rolling hills and valleys that reminded them of their homeland. Today, the county remains a remote and peaceful destination, known for its exceptional wines. From the warmer inland regions that produce robust Zinfandels and Petite Sirah, to the cooler Anderson Valley where delicate varieties like Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir thrive, Mendocino County has something for every wine lover.
Experience the rich history and exceptional wines of Edmeades Winery, a true pioneer in the Anderson Valley wine scene. Visit us and take in the breathtaking surroundings while sipping on a glass of our award-winning Zinfandel. Cheers to a taste of history in every sip
