Above the Bay Wines
Get the Dirt from owner/winemaker Michael Farmer
“We can choose the varietals, vineyards, winemaking techniques, packaging, etc. Creative control of the entire process makes it exciting to get up and get to work. ”
What was your first vintage year? 2022
How many cases do you make per vintage? Our first year we made 115 cases, with 175 this year. Next year, we are planning on 350 cases and hope to continue to grow and add different varietals.
Do you have a Tasting Room? No, we don’t have a tasting room, but you can reach out to us through our website.
Who is your winemaker? It’s me!
What wine made you want to become a winemaker/start your own winery?
My wife and I celebrated our 25th anniversary in Yountville and after 4 incredible days in Napa Valley tasting wines and enjoying the area, we started mapping out a plan to retire early and get into the wine business.
What varietals do you work with?
I started with Chardonnay because it’s my wife’s favorite (the entire family also likes it). We added Merlot last year and will pick up some Sauvignon Blanc this year. We’ll get into Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir after that. So far, my favorite wine to make is our ’23 Rose’. I sourced Merlot grapes from a wonderful high altitude vineyard that was originally planted in the 1930s. The fruit came in looking incredible and I’ve hardly touched it. It’s my favorite because of the vineyard’s history and the growers are wonderful people.
What vineyards do you source from?
I choose family owned vineyards because these are the people who deeply care about their vines. I want to feel good about everything that goes into a glass of our wine, so organic farming and sustainable practices are key.
What type of oak treatment do you use?
To date, our wines are lighter in style, so oak is neutral to very light. As we get into red varietals, oak will become more prevalent.
What do you love about your winemaking region? What makes it different special?
I can’t say enough about living and making wine in Sonoma County. There is such a wide variety of climates and terroir that the possibilities are endless. My favorite part about our region is the people. We are brand new to this industry and have received a ton of support, guidance and resources to help get our start up off of the ground.
What’s the story behind your winery name / label?
The meaning is two fold. First, we source all of our grapes and make wine north of San Francisco Bay. So, geographically, we operate above the bay. The bigger meaning comes from a state of mind. When I think about the best times and experiences that I’ve been a part of, it always involves family and friends. We’re focused on life at that moment and step away from the distractions that are a part of daily life. We get out of the fray and enjoy ourselves. That’s the hidden meaning of Above The Bay.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about the wine business before you started your own winery?
Things take time. I am still learning to be patient. It seems like nothing ever goes according to plan, so plan to be surprised, be flexible and adapt quickly.
Most importantly, what's so great about being small? What can you do as a small winemaker, that wouldn't be possible for larger wineries?
Freedom. We can choose the varietals, vineyards, winemaking techniques, packaging, etc. Creative control of the entire process makes it exciting to get up and get to work.
How do you view the future in the wine industry for small-lot winemakers?
The future for small-lot winemakers will be what we make it. The business aspects will always present hurdles that larger wineries are better equipped to handle. Economies of scale advantages and distribution systems will never be in our favor. But, opportunities to support local small businesses that create a great product are viewed very positively by consumers. We just need to keep making great wine and getting in front of the right audience. On that note, here’s a big shout out to Garagiste for providing this forum.
If you could choose another wine region to work in what would it be?
I’ve only read about the great wine regions in France and hope to visit them all. Some of my favorite wines have come from Pomerol. I would love to experience the history and traditions from an Old World region like Bordeaux.
For more information about Above the Bay Wines, please visit their website or follow them on Instagram.