Frank Family Vineyards

Take a trip back in time at the Frank Family Vineyards. First constructed as the Larkmead Winery in 1884, the building was refinished with native sandstone from the nearby hills in 1906 and still stands tall today. The massive stone edifice is considered an archetype of California’s wine country; it appears on the National Register of Historical Places and is listed as a Point of Historical Interest in the state of California. The family focuses their energies on making superb still wines. The winery produces Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir, Petite Syrah and several distinctively different Cabernet Sauvignons. The Highly regarded Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, which is barrel aged for two and one-half years, is emerging as one of the most sought after wines in the valley and their Carneros Vineyards produced some if the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir available. The Sangiovese, a rising star, is created entirely from grapes grown on Rich’s property Winston Hill and the Zinfandel comes from the Pope & Chiles Valley. Once owned by wine legend Hans Kornell, the winery originally secured its reputation with sparkling wines. Five sparkling wines continue to be handcrafted today in the old building: Brut, Blanc de Blancs, Brut Rosé, occasionally the Rouge and Reserve. All of these are made in the traditional French method champenoise style. Frank Family Vineyards Reserve wines are produced in small quantities and currently only sold at the winery and a handful of selected restaurants and wine shops. A visit to the winery is not complete without a story-filled tour or at least a walk through the historic building where the thick stone walls, high stacked barrels and rich bouquet of aging wines create the utmost winery ambience. The winery provides beautiful tasting rooms for its guest in the restored 70 year old Craftsman House. Just outside to the south of the building visitors are welcome to sit under the giant 100 year old Elm trees, relax at the wooden picnic tables and enjoy the spectacular vineyards views.