by Laurie Jo Miller Farr | Photo by @quickdrawpics
It’s a long way from the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York, but it’s a fun second career for the husband and wife team, Bram and Ashley Palm. They’re proud to introduce Brashley Vineyards as the new kid on the block. In this case, that means 10 acres of Pinot Noir grapes, a new label, and a brand new tasting room at this first-generation winery in the heart of Anderson Valley.
Originally moving to California in 2013, they spent time in Marin and Sonoma county before meandering up to Anderson Valley for the Anderson Valley Pinot Festival. When it was time to sell the 111-year-old family business back home in upstate New York, that’s when the Anderson Valley love affair blossomed. They started with the purchase of an estate vineyard, Hacienda Sequoia, with a strong reputation for its 100% Pommard clone grapes and the amazing winemakers that have tended to this vineyard over the years. A subsequent purchase of the eight-acre Bevel Vineyard created a home for the Brashley Vineyards Tasting Room, opened in late 2021 after remodeling.
All Brashley Vineyards wines are single vineyard, organically sourced, and proudly Mendocino County grapes. Brashley Vineyards’ inaugural 2018 Hacienda Sequoia Vineyards Pinot Noir received 92 points from Wine Enthusiast–and they were on their way.
Exciting times! Brashley hired winemaker Ashley Holland, who jumped at the chance to work with Brashley. Initially tapped for the FLX Riesling project with Brashley, her ambition and passion were perfect for their full line of wines. “With the addition of a dry Riesling,” Ashley said, “the Brashley 2021 Finger Lakes Riesling will be our signature dry Alsatian wine, and we are excited for this vintage release in late 2022. We are expecting 150 cases for 2021.” Always eager to look ahead, a 2022 Blanc de Noir sparkling is in the works.
The team also grew to include Sean McTiernan as Tasting Room host and chef, elevating the food experience. The tri-level wine club to suit all preferences has been launched, too. Ashley noted, “We’ve got the whole package now.”
Guests are invited to the new Brashley Vineyards Tasting Room, a clean, fun space overlooking the vineyard that’s delightful all year round with a patio, artwork, fountains, and flowers. This autumn, the opening days and times are Friday through Monday, 11am to 4pm The “Siesta Flight” tasting menu includes their Rosé of Pinot Noir, Pinot Noir Blanc, and two of Brashley’s signature red Pinots. Looking for something different to do on Thanksgiving Day? The Tasting Room in Philo will be open from 11 to 4pm. Kids and dogs are welcome, too. Appointments are not required but, are preferred for parties of six or more.
