J Vineyards & Winery

Profile: J Vineyards & Winery (formerly J Wine Company) has found a proper home with its new Russian River Valley winemaking facility and tasting room. The coastal climate of the winery's 250 acres lends itself perfectly to growing the grapes used in sparkling wine, the style on which J built its reputation. Founded in 1986, it is named for owner Judy Jordan (see interview with Jordan). Today the winery also offers still wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. The company's dedication to the pairings of wines with food is evident in the unique tasting room setup, where its samplings are served with hors d'oeuvres selected to enhance wine choices. They also launched their Essence Tasting program in August 2007, which aims to offer a world-class dining experience through seven food-and-wine-paired courses.