It was so much fun sipping wine with the owner/winemaker of Laurel Haven Estate. Prior to her adventure in wine, Jenna Bice had a career in healthcare. She was also a flight attendant. Since she was 13, after a trip to Napa with her parents, Jenna knew she would be a winemaker some day. When she saw Laurel Haven Estate, she fell in love.
She purchased her dream in 2018: it was a cattle ranch, and the structure was a wedding venue. It was run down, so the first order of business was renovating it. The first phase was just cosmetic and a bit structural. After that, Jenna got more detailed with important things like the bathrooms. The weddings continued throughout the purchase and renovations because that's what pays the bills! The renovations still continue. The Pavillion was completed in March of 2024, which is a beautiful event space for weddings, birthdays, baby showers….. you name it.
Prior to purchase, she had the soil tested in a lab that specializes in vineyards. The soil was amazing, and she didn't have to do much to it.
The first acre of grapes was planted in 2022 with a Crimson Cabernet grape, which is a hybrid grape, producing a Bordeaux style Cabernet Sauvignon. The next acre was planted in 2023 with a Vidal Blanc grape. She plans to continue planting until there are 10 acres of grapes, with different varietials for grapes. There are also plans to build a processing plant by 2027.
I have to tell you that I love every one of her wines and there are 8 to choose from. She does have a nice charcuterie to order, but outside food is welcome in. Jenna has big plans here, and I recommend a visit soon!
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