Ancillary Cellars
About
ancillary cellars is a new collaboration between celebrated Napa Valley vintners mike smith and mark carter. The driving force behind ancillary cellars is a desire to explore cool climate varietals crafted in a uniquely Californian style by showcasing the cool climate subtlety of the Sonoma Coast AVA. We have tried to craft a wine that evokes the layers, complexity and delicacy of Pinot Noir.
Location Description
Located in the heart of sonoma coast, California.
Additional Information
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Average Bottle Price
History
mike smith started his winemaking career under the direction of the talented thomas brown at schrader cellars in 2001. mike put in his years as a cellar rat, traveling from oregon south to the napa valley, while working harvest free of charge to learn his craft. after his 3rd harvest, mike accepted a full-time assistant position from schrader cellars and moved his family to beautiful st. helena. it was during this period that mike was able to articulate his own philosophies on winemaking and cement his reputation for crafting terroir driven wines which allow for the natural characteristics of each vineyard to shine. he continues to make highly regarded wines for a number of successful wineries including carter cellars, myriad, quivet cellars, 12c, scarlett and now, ancillary cellars.
Practices & Techniques
Estate Vineyards / AVA
Sun Chase Vineyard: this 40 acre vineyard sits between 900 and 1200 feet on the western slope of sonoma mountain in the desirable petaluma gap region of the sonoma coast ava. utilizing french pinot noir clones, the site benefits from cool pacific breezes and early morning fog in the vineyard, allowing the grapes to fully ripen while retaining fruit acidity and a fresh, vibrant californian style.