#United States #Clearlake Oaks #Brassfield Estate #High Valley AVA #Volcano Camp

Brassfield Estate Winery's Inaugural High Valley Volcano Camp

On April 13, 2025, Brassfield Estate Winery successfully launched the first edition of its much-anticipated High Valley Volcano Camp. This extraordinary event, hosted in collaboration with The SOMM Journal, featured a three-day immersive experience aimed at showcasing the remarkable wine potential of the High Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) located in Northern California.

The Volcano Camp attracted a carefully selected group of wine trade professionals, including sommeliers and beverage directors, offering them a unique opportunity to delve deep into the distinctive volcanic terroir and its impact on grape cultivation. Participants engaged in comprehensive seminars and participated in extensive comparative tastings of volcanic wines from around the globe.

The event was expertly guided by Master Sommelier John Szabo, author of the renowned book "Volcanic Wines: Salt, Grit and Power," alongside notable experts such as Seth Burgess, a USGS Research Geologist, and Jonathan Walters, the Vice President of Winery and Vineyard Operations at Brassfield Estate. The seminars allowed attendees to explore the intricate terroir of the family-owned winery, which spans a variety of soil types—from the darker stones of Volcano Ridge Vineyards situated on the slopes of the dormant Round Mountain Volcano to the alluvial pebbles found at High Serenity Ranch.

Throughout the three days, participants had the chance to engage in a variety of activities, including soil pit explorations, hands-on grape growing insights, and tastings of Brassfield Estate's exclusive wine portfolio. They sampled wines such as the intriguing Eruption blend, the illustrious Block 14 Cabernet Sauvignon, and the refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. Additionally, a vertical tasting of the winery's offerings dating back to 2006 provided a unique perspective on the evolution of their wines over the years.

"We are thrilled to announce that our inaugural High Valley Volcano Camp was a tremendous success," stated Chris Baker, President of Brassfield Estate Winery. "The event provided an unmatched opportunity for a select group of influential sommeliers from across the USA to gain deeper insights into grapes cultivated in volcanic soils around the world. From an educational standpoint, it truly served as a Master Class. We extend our gratitude to The SOMM Journal for their invaluable support in organizing this event and selecting the esteemed participants."

The positive feedback from attendees was overwhelming, according to Meridith May, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of The SOMM Journal. "Our aim was, and continues to be, to awaken our audience of beverage-buying decision-makers to the dynamic grape-growing region of High Valley. The documentation of this event in our August issue will further promote this mission."

The Volcano Camp is part of a broader initiative celebrating the winery's 25th Anniversary, which includes a series of major events and educational activities designed for trade, press, and consumers alike. Founded by the visionary entrepreneur Jerry Brassfield, Brassfield Estate Winery is built upon a legacy of dedication, respect for the land, and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect, from the vineyard to the tasting room, reflects this commitment.

Interested parties can find more information on Brassfield Estate Winery by visiting their website at Brassfield Estate Winery. Furthermore, for the latest updates on wine releases and events, follow them on social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram (@brassfieldestatewinery).

In summary, the High Valley Volcano Camp was not only a celebration of the unique terroir of Lake County but also a significant step in advancing the recognition and appreciation of volcanic wines within the broader wine community.