Matanzas Creek Winery in Sonoma Valley was founded in 1977 by Bill and Sandra MacIver. The 69-acre estate quickly became known for Chardonnay, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc, earning excellent reviews for those wines. In 2000 the MacIvers sold the estate to Jess Jackson, owner of Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate and the Artisan & Estates group of boutique wineries. Today the estate makes a wider range of wines. Though still known for Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot, it also produces Syrah and a premium line of wines under the Journey label.
One of the most widely grown grape varieties, it can be found in nearly every wine growing region. A cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a hardy vine that produces a full-bodied wine with high tannins and great aging potential.