Twomey Newsletter Fall 2008

More than 35 years ago, Ray Duncan and his winemaking partner Justin Meyer challenged conventional wisdom by creating Silver Oak Cellars, a winery devoted exclusively to Cabernet Sauvignon. The Duncan’s continued that tradition of entrepreneurship and innovation with the creation of Twomey Cellars in 1999. Inspired by their desire to create a modern interpretation of the finest wines in the world, the Duncan family draws on their years of experience to produce Twomey wines. Today, Ray’s sons Tim and David are the Managing Partners and carry this vision forward.

Daniel Baron, Twomey’s founding winemaker, developed his passion for Merlot while working in Bordeaux in the 1980s. For many years, he lacked access to the right fruit to make the Merlot he envisioned. That changed after the Duncan family acquired Soda Canyon Ranch in southeastern Napa Valley. The vineyard, originally purchased for its Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for Silver Oak’s Napa Valley wine, also included superb quality Merlot. The grapes, grown from selected French clones, ripen slowly in the cool breezes and morning fog from nearby San Pablo Bay, developing rich black-fruit character. This remarkable vineyard is the sole source of grapes for Twomey Merlot.

Our family’s pioneer spirit is reflected in our wines. As top-quality vineyards have become available, we have expanded our offerings to include Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Along with our Russian River Valley Pinot Noir we look forward to offering Pinot Noir from Anderson Valley, Sonoma Coast, and Santa Maria. These extremely limited wines will be available for sale in 2009 to members of our Preferred Customer List.

“Our new release, the 2005 Merlot, captures the exceptional character of Soda Canyon Ranch. With its opulent, velvety texture and lush flavors of cherry, dark chocolate and spice, this wine embodies what we love most about Merlot.”