Chalk Hill is a ruggedly beautiful 1,200 acre estate. Surrounded by heritage oak woodlands and natural riparian streams, a scant 292 vineyard acres meander— a patchwork of 60 different small vineyards, each dedicated to producing distinctive wines of elegance and power. Here artisans of the vineyard and cellar collaborate to handcraft wines that reflect the vibrant and diverse character of the Chalk Hill Estate.
Chalk Hill, the appellation, is one of twelve in Sonoma County—a region of fine wine, remarkable beauty and agricultural abundance. Unique biospheres distinguish Chalk Hill from the neighboring appellations—the cooler Russian River Valley to the west and the warmer Alexander Valley to the northeast. Elevations at Chalk Hill are higher; soil fertility is lower. In amazing proximity, the soils range from shallow to deep, from thin to thick, from gravel and rock to heavy clay. An old river bed caps one hill; an unusual serpentine vein ranges through another. And under the topsoil is a distinctive layer of chalk-colored volcanic ash which inspired the name of Chalk Hill, the appellation and the estate.
Chalk Hill is the only completely integrated estate winery in the Chalk Hill viticultural appellation. The soil types and hilly terrain clearly distinguish Chalk Hill from neighboring appellations - the cooler Russian River Valley to the west and the warmer Alexander Valley to the northeast. Compared to these two valleys, The Chalk Hill appellation has higher elevations, lower soil fertility and a distinct soil layer of white volcanic ash.
