Our Vineyards

"We searched for more than a decade before choosing the Red Hills in California as the perfect location for the Thorn's family winery." John Thorn

Owners, John and Amy Thorn, were attracted to the appellation because of the three key components needed to grow award winning wines: elevation, soil, and weather.

Red Hill’s Appellation

Mountain High Elevation:
Located in the diverse micro climate of the Red Hills, Thorn Hill Vineyards covers 50 gently sloping acres, within a mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 3,000 feet above sea level. The cooling afternoon breezes found at these moderate elevations contribute to the favorable growing conditions of the region.

The Thorns were attracted to the Red Hills Appellation because of its ideal conditions for growing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes - rich, shallow volcanic soils that produce compact berries with powerful flavor. Wines produced from the local harvest tend to be big and bold, with complex fruity flavors that hint of wild berries, blackberries, cherries and spice. The trace minerals apparent in the volcanic soils lend earthy or flinty notes that add complexity to the wine.

Volcanic Mountainous Soil:
The soil in the Red Hill’s appellation are of volcanic origin from neighboring Mount Konocti and produce well drained earth that is rich in black obsidian and gravel content and strikingly red in color. Three general soil types predominate: Glenview-Bottle Rock-Arrowhead, Konocti-Benridge, and Collayomi-Aiken. The shallow depth and rich mineral content of the soils create an ideal environment for growing Cabernet Sauvignon and other premium grapes.

Ideal Weather:
The Red Hills appellation benefits from a unique diurnal temperature pattern, with hot days tempered by afternoon winds that can cool nighttime temperatures by as much as 50 degrees. During the growing season daytime temperatures easily reach 90 degrees and above, but cool down each afternoon from breezes created by the sloping elevation changes around Mount Konocti and offshore winds from Clear Lake. The hot days nudge grapes to achieve full flavor and optimal ripeness. Whereas the cool nights help preserve the acidity of the grapes and enhance the balance and complexity of the fruit.