History
The Kathryn Kennedy estate vineyard is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. The vines cover gentle slopes in Saratoga, California on the inland side of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Eight acres of vines were planted on their own roots by Kathryn in 1973. Excellent soil, a climate possessing just the right amount of marine influence and personal attention combine to yield outstanding grapes. Each vintage is grown by hand and vinified in small lots followed by gentle barrel aging with 90% French oak. The result is big full-flavored wine with deep color and a decade or more of aging potential.
Photo gallery memorial of Kathryn Kennedy, who passed away in Aug. 2009.
Kathryn planted the vineyard in 1973 after attending viticulture courses at UC Davis. The decision to specialize in one variety was based on advice she received there. It was also suggested that she consult old-timers in her local area. This resulted in a strong recommendation for Cabernet Sauvignon. Kathryn planted her entire eight acres exclusively to Cabernet Sauvignon. Kathryn's youngest son, Marty Mathis, took the position as winemaker in 1981. Marty and his wife Dr. Deborah Mathis currently reside at the vineyard and winery.
Download and read a transcript of a interview of Kathryn Kennedy by noted wine historian Charles Sullivan in the mid 1990s
Newly planted Cabernet vines circa 1973. Visable across Pierce Road are some vineyard that we not part of Kathryn's land. No longer in exisience, those vines were Cabernet Sauvignon planted for the Knight Smith family by Martin Ray in 1945
Training and prunning of young vines was done by Kathryn, circa 1975
Kathryn, circa 1974, performing the backbreaking job of establishing the vineyard.
Independent, and aiming only for the top, Kathryn took matters into her own hands and
set the course for this great Cabernet Estate. Photo - 1975