In 1996, Pierre Ehret established Bavarian Lion Vineyards in Knights Valley, planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. The vineyards are 400-800 feet in elevation in the foothills of Mount St. Helena. Ehret sold the high-quality fruit to premier wineries in Sonoma County. In 2005, he made the first vintages for his own label. The renowned Alex Vyborny has been the vineyard manager since inception. He set up the vineyard plan with 35% of the property under vine and 65% as natural wilderness. All farming is now sustainable and all energy comes from solar and irrigation is provided with collected rain water. In 2014, Erin Green was hired as consulting winemaker. She has consulted for Bryant Family, Pahlmeyer, Colgin, and Martinelli. The 2015 vintage was the first under her helm.
The Lineup: