In the vast tapestry of Napa Valley’s illustrious wine heritage, few names shine as brightly as that of Bill Harlan. In 1979, Bill embarked on a viticultural journey that would span generations, a voyage rooted in a profound commitment to unlocking the full potential of the land. As the years unfolded, Bill’s quest led him to cultivate wines from over 60 distinct vineyards, each a unique expression of Napa’s terroir. However, amid this vast array of vinous creations, a select group of hillside estates began to stand out, forging a deep and enduring bond with Bill and his team.
It was within this crucible of shared vision and unwavering dedication that Bond was conceived. This remarkable portfolio of wines, akin to “Grand Cru” in quality, was born from a singular philosophy, nurtured by one team, and united under a single mark. BOND. Through friendship and trust, Bond aspires to faithfully unveil the character of each individual vineyard site, offering a vivid tapestry of Napa Valley’s remarkable diversity through the lens of Cabernet Sauvignon.
As the story of BOND unfolds, we delve into the details of five exceptional vineyards, each with its own unique identity and contribution to the BOND portfolio.
VECINA – A Neighborly Tribute
Vecina takes root southeast of the Bond winery, nestled in the western foothills of Oakville. This 11-acre parcel straddles the border between Oakville and Yountville.
Vecina derives from the Spanish word for “neighbour,” a nod to its proximity to other esteemed vineyards.
The gracefully terraced volcanic slopes of Vecina face due east, embracing the cool morning sun. Its fortuitous location benefits from the refreshing evening breeze that ascends from San Pablo Bay, providing a respite from the afternoon heat.
Vecina’s vineyard bedrock is interlaid with a fine-grained alluvial wash, creating a unique terroir signature.
The vineyard’s altitude ranges from 221 to 330 feet, offering diverse microclimates and growing conditions.
MELBURY: A London Homage
Melbury calls a stunning property home on the northern slopes of Lake Hennessey, nestled in the hills east of Rutherford. With just under 7 acres, it stands as the smallest of the BOND sites.
Melbury pays homage to a historic area in London, where the estate owners often reside.
This steep, rocky hillside vineyard faces south/southeast, commanding a panoramic vista overlooking Lake Hennessey. Innovative vertical row orientation sets it apart from traditional horizontal arrangements.
Albury’s soil composition comprises clay and humus, offering a unique balance between moisture retention during droughts and proper drainage during wet seasons.
Situated between 400 and 500 feet in altitude, Melbury thrives in an elevated microclimate.
Quella: A Pristine Source
Quella claims a 9-acre site perched in Spring Valley, in the eastern hills above Napa Valley’s heart.
Quella derives from the German word for a “pristine source” or artesian aquifer, reflecting the vineyard’s distinctive purity.
This steeply sloped site faces southwest, offering an ideal sun-soaked exposure.
Quella’s ancient riverbed origin combines cobble and rocks interwoven with pockets of tufa, volcanic ash remnants from bygone eruptions.
Elevation: The vineyard’s elevation spans from 433 to 595 feet, embracing diverse terroir influences.
ST EDEN – A Historical Reference
St. Eden thrives upon an 11-acre rocky knoll nestled just north of the Oakville Crossroad on the East side.
Eden evokes historical significance, tracing its roots to nineteenth-century maps of the region.
St. Eden’s north-facing slopes provide respite from the afternoon heat, offering gentle terrain compared to its Bond counterparts.
The site’s red, rocky, iron-rich volcanic soil originates high in the Vaca Mountains, bringing depth and character to the wines.
St. Eden, the lowest of the BOND sites, stands between 145 to 188 feet, maintaining a unique microclimate.
PLURIBUS – Many Facets of Excellence
Pluribus unfurls its character across a 7-acre site perched at an elevation exceeding one thousand feet on Spring Mountain’s dramatic slopes, gracing the Western side of North Napa Valley.
Pluribus, Latin for “many,” symbolizes the myriad elements contributing to the creation of fine wine.
With breathtaking mountainous terrain and steep exposures to the north, east, and southeast, Pluribus enjoys unique protection from the surrounding conifer forest.
Comprised of red, iron-rich volcanic bedrock, Pluribus mirrors the soil composition of St. Eden, despite their disparate locations.
Pluribus stands as the highest of the five BOND sites, dwelling around the 1000-foot elevation mark, infusing the wines with its alpine terroir influence.
In this comprehensive exploration of BOND and its vineyards, we embark on a journey steeped in tradition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to crafting wines of unparalleled quality. The legacy of Bill Harlan and the BOND team continues to unfold, beckoning us to discover the nuances of each site, the influence of terroir, and the indomitable spirit that propels Napa Valley’s finest wines to the forefront of the world’s vinous stage.
