Derek Benham founded Raeburn Winery in his mother's honor, with a mission to protect the thriving and diverse watersheds of the Russian River Valley she so loved and provide a safe habitat for grapes and creatures alike. Derek's mother Phyllis Benham was a birdwatcher and passionate naturalist, therefore the label graces the egret that are seen along the local waterways.

Raeburn is an Olde English term which means the river where one goes to drink. So it's fitting that Raeburn's expressive, beautifully balanced wines begin in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Cool fog off the Pacific Ocean and moderate temperature allows Pinot Noir to ripen gently over an extended time, up to 20% longer than neighboring regions. 

Raeburn is made in a Certified California Sustainable Winery. They are one of the most eco-friendly, water-efficient facilities in the industry.  A canopy over the winery diverts rainwater (up to one million gallons annually) into Atascadero Creek, a federally protected salmon-spawning habitat. They collaborate with Tesla Energy to install Powerpack commercial batteries at the winery. In addition, 90% of all winery packaging materials are recycled.

Aged for 11 months in French oak barrels (25% new)

Wine Notes