In 1972, Tom Jordan acquired 275 acres of prune orchards for conversion to vineyards, plus 1300 acres of rolling oak woodlands as a site for the future winery facility as well as an informal preserve for deer, wild turkey, coyotes, waterfowl, and other wildlife.
In the case of areas selected for planting vines, nature required the help of art and experience, so the land was re-graded to enhance soil drainage. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and - five years later - Chardonnay grapes were planted. In due course, a winery, inspired by southwestern French country architecture, was built on an oak-studded knoll and completed just in time for the first vintage, that of 1976.
From the first, winemaking at Jordan has integrated new-world technology and old-world artistry to complement the unique natural qualities of the grapes. Created under the tutelage of the legendary André Tchelistcheff, the first vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon established a suppleness and delicacy that was uncommon in California. Working alongside André in those early years was the present winemaker, Rob Davis. Many of the vineyard workers who originally planted the estate vines still care for them today. This continuity assures the consistency of style and elegance so typical of all Jordan wines.
