In January 2016, the Tesseron family expanded their established vineyard portfolio with the acquisition of Villa Sorriso, previously owned by the beloved American actor Robin Williams. Located in the prestigious Mount Veeder region of Napa Valley, California, this sprawling estate was the perfect addition to the family's collection of exceptional vineyards.
With a keen eye for quality and a deep appreciation for the nuances of winemaking, the Tesserons knew that Villa Sorriso possessed all the necessary elements for producing exceptional wines. The high altitude of the region, coupled with locally cool conditions, provided the perfect climate for moderating the generous nature of the Napa Valley. The sedimentary soils, with their historic marine deposits, had evolved over millions of years and were ideal for growing Bordeaux varieties, which the family had previous experience with at their renowned Pontet-Canet estate.
But what truly sets Villa Sorriso apart is its remote location. Like a hidden gem, nestled in the heart of nature, this vineyard is a true island of tranquility. The steep and precipitous terrain makes it a challenging area to cultivate, resulting in a modest crop of grapes. However, these grapes are of the highest quality, thanks to the deep root systems of the mature vines, which allow for the purest expression of the terroir and yield full and complex wines.
In tribute to the previous owner, the Tesserons have chosen to continue the legacy of Villa Sorriso by naming their wine after the actor's children, "PYM" and "RAE". This touching story adds to the allure of this exceptional estate, making it a truly unique and special addition to the Tesserons' impressive collection of vineyards.
