Celebrating 200 Years of Sonoma Valley Wine
As we approach the 2024 Grape Harvest in Sonoma Valley, we commemorate a momentous occasion—the 200th Anniversary of Sonoma Valley Wine. This year is uniquely celebrated as “The Year of the Farmer,” highlighting the individuals whose dedication and hard work have shaped the region’s viticultural legacy. Among these pioneers is Joe Martin, the visionary founder of St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, whose journey from businessman to grape farmer embodies the spirit of Sonoma Valley.
Sonoma Valley’s rich winemaking history dates back to 1824 when Spanish missionaries planted the first vineyards. Over the next two centuries, the region’s unique terroir—characterized by diverse soils, microclimates, and topography—would prove ideal for cultivating a wide variety of grapes. This diversity is exemplified by St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, which today grows over 14 different varieties.
Our Roots are In Sonoma Valley
Joe Martin’s story is deeply intertwined with Sonoma’s viticultural renaissance. In 1971, Martin, a San Francisco businessman with agricultural roots in California’s Central Valley, purchased the 100-acre Behler Ranch vineyard in Kenwood. This marked the beginning of his transition from urban entrepreneur to dedicated grape farmer, a move that would significantly impact Sonoma Valley’s wine industry.
Martin’s approach to grape farming was both innovative and respectful of the land. He recognized the potential of Sonoma’s varied terroir and experimented with different grape varieties. His early focus on Chardonnay and Merlot laid the foundation for what would become a diverse and acclaimed wine portfolio.
Pioneer of Merlot Cultivation in California
As a pioneer of Merlot cultivation in California, Martin played a crucial role in establishing the varietal as a standalone wine rather than merely a blending grape for Cabernet Sauvignon. His belief in Merlot’s potential was vindicated as Sonoma Valley’s climate and soil proved ideal for producing rich, complex Merlots that gained recognition worldwide.
Martin’s success as a grape grower led to the establishment of St. Francis Winery in 1979, named after St. Francis of Assisi, reflecting a commitment to ecological stewardship that remains central to the winery’s ethos. Under the guidance of our first winemaker Tom Mackey, St. Francis expanded its varietal range, developing a reputation for bold, structured red wines, including old-vine Zinfandel—a varietal that would become synonymous with Sonoma County’s winemaking identity.
Our Legacy Continues
Today, St. Francis Winery & Vineyards continues Joe Martin’s legacy of innovation and respect for Sonoma’s unique terroir. The winery now produces over 14 different varietals across sourcing from more than 400 acres of Certified Sustainable estate vineyards in Sonoma Valley and Russian River Valley, as well as other revered vineyards throughout the county. This diversity reflects the region’s remarkable ability to produce a wide range of high-quality wines, from cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to warm-weather varieties like Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The winery’s commitment to sustainable farming practices honors Martin’s vision of stewardship. Each vineyard is carefully managed to account for its specific soil composition—a mix of loam, clay, and volcanic soils—ensuring that each varietal expresses its unique character and the essence of its Sonoma terroir.
Beyond its estate vineyards, St. Francis maintains long-term relationships with top Sonoma County grape growers, giving the winery access to some of the region’s most coveted old-vine Zinfandel and other varietals from acclaimed vineyards. This collaborative approach echoes the communal spirit that has defined Sonoma Valley’s wine industry for two centuries.
As we celebrate “The Year of the Farmer” and 200 years of Sonoma Valley wine, we pay tribute to Joe Martin and all the farmers whose passion and perseverance have made Sonoma Valley a premier wine-growing region. Their dedication to the land, innovative spirit, and commitment to quality have created a viticultural legacy that continues to thrive and evolve.
Today, under the guidance of winemakers Katie Madigan and Chris Louton, St. Francis Winery & Vineyards produces wines that not only honor this rich history but also look to the future of Sonoma Valley winemaking. From the pioneering days of Joe Martin to the present, the story of St. Francis mirrors the broader narrative of Sonoma Valley—a tale of respect for the land, innovative farming, and a relentless pursuit of quality.
Join us in raising a glass to 200 years of Sonoma Valley wine, to the farmers who make it all possible, and to the continued growth and success of this remarkable wine region.
