Unveiling the Rhone Rangers: A Chronicle of Pioneers, Passion, and the American Terroir

The Rhone Ranger movement, a dynamic force in the American wine landscape, traces its roots back to the late 1980s when a group of visionary winemakers decided to diverge from the Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay-dominated tradition. This movement, a nod to the Rhone Valley in France, has since become a symbol of innovation, diversity, and a relentless pursuit of expressing the unique terroir of American vineyards.

With John MacReady of Sierra Vista Winery serving as its executive director, the Rhone Rangers movement saw a second wave of innovation start to emerge around 1998. The organisation was modelled after the Zinfandel Advocates and Producers, a group that had been successful in getting Zinfandel recognised in the trade. MacReady attributed the success of the new organisation to its acceptance of Syrah’s usage as a blending grape, a viewpoint that others found contentious. New clones of many of the 13 varieties permitted in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, such as Picpoul blanc, Grenache blanc, and Counoise, which had never been used in California previously, were imported by Tablas Creek and made available to other vineyards.

Pioneers of the Rhone Ranger Movement:

Randall Grahm
One of the trailblazers in the Rhone Ranger movement is Randall Grahm, the founder of Bonny Doon Vineyard. Grahm’s fascination with Rhône varietals, particularly Grenache, led him to experiment with these grapes in the Central Coast of California. His pioneering efforts with Rhône-style blends, including the iconic Le Cigare Volant, set the stage for the movement’s emergence.

Bonny Doon Vineyard:
Randall Grahm’s Bonny Doon Vineyard, based in Santa Cruz, played a pioneering role in introducing Rhone-style wines to the American palate. Le Cigare Volant, inspired by Chateauneuf-du-Pape, became an iconic blend, showcasing the versatility and depth of Rhône varietals in California.

Joseph Phelps
Joseph Phelps played a pivotal role in the movement through Joseph Phelps Vineyard. Established in Paso Robles in 1974, Joseph Phelps Vineyard a beacon for Rhone-style wines. Their commitment to importing Rhone grapevine cuttings and propagating them in California has significantly influenced the movement.

Tablas Creek Vineyard:
Robert Haas Tablas Creek Vineyard, located in Paso Robles, stands as a testament to the commitment of bringing authentic Rhone grapevines to American soil. With a focus on sustainable practices, Tablas Creek has become a leading force, producing outstanding examples of Rhone-style wines.

Bob Lindquist
Bob Lindquist, the founder of Qupe Winery, is often regarded as a key figure in the Rhone Ranger movement. Lindquist’s dedication to Syrah and other Rhône varietals earned him acclaim. His journey, starting in the early 1980s, reflects the movement’s spirit as he focused on showcasing the potential of these grapes in the diverse microclimates of Santa Barbara County.

Qupe Winery:
Bob Lindquist’s Qupe Winery, situated in the cool climate of Santa Maria Valley, has been a consistent contributor to the Rhône Ranger movement. Lindquist’s dedication to Syrah, Viognier, and other Rhône varietals showcases the potential for these grapes to thrive in California’s diverse terroirs.

Legacy and Impact:

The Rhône Ranger movement has left an indelible mark on the American wine landscape, challenging conventions and championing diversity. As the movement celebrates its legacy, the influence of these pioneers and their respective wineries continues to resonate. Today, the Rhône Rangers stand as a symbol of a dynamic and innovative spirit, shaping the future of American winemaking and inviting enthusiasts to explore the rich tapestry of Rhône-style wines in the New World.