Nearly 125 years ago, Joseph Pelissa arrived in Napa Valley from Italy with little more than determination and a dream. In 1903, he planted his first vineyard—never imagining that his descendants would still be farming the same land more than a century later. Yet that’s exactly what the Pelissa–Hoxsey family has done. For generations, they’ve preserved their vineyards, quietly supplied grapes to some of Napa Valley’s most esteemed wineries, and nurtured their own family labels—all with grace, humility, and respect for the land.

Andrew Hoxsey

Today, Joseph’s great-grandson, Andrew “Andy” Hoxsey, oversees more than 1,000 acres in Oakville and Yountville—600 of which are certified organic. Andy began converting the family’s vineyards to organic farming in the mid-1980s, long before it became a mainstream practice. Known for letting the land speak first, Andy prefers to keep the spotlight on the vineyards rather than himself. His younger daughter, Morgaen Hoxsey, Director of Sales and Marketing, shares, “His focus is making sure the vineyards are passed to the next generation stronger than when he inherited them.”

Sisters Morgaen and Kendall with their Dad

A cornerstone of the family’s legacy is the Napa Wine Company, their custom-crush facility in Oakville. For decades, it has built trust among Napa’s top producers—growing grapes, crafting wines, and helping shape the region’s reputation. Many acclaimed wineries have used its services over the years. This behind-the-scenes support has long operated under the radar, quietly empowering both small and established brands to bring their wines to life.

In the mid-2000s, the family stepped into a more public spotlight by launching three estate-driven labels:

• Ghost Block: Estate-grown and award-winning, this label features Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel sourced from vineyards that proudly carry the Pelissa name.

• Oakville Winery: Honoring their Oakville property, this label showcases Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel that reflect the district’s distinct terroir.

• Elizabeth Rose: Named for Andy’s elder daughter, Kendall Elizabeth, President of Yount Mill Vineyards, these approachable, fruit-forward wines highlight multiple varietals and express a modern, vibrant spirit.

Throughout it all, the family continues to sell most of their grapes to other producers while reserving select parcels for their own wines—a balance that enables them to support the broader Napa Valley while crafting bottles that speak authentically of their land and legacy.

Sisters Morgaen and Kendall

Today, sisters Morgaen and Kendall are gradually assuming leadership of the business, fostering relationships and expanding sales with the same consistency and integrity that have always defined the family. Their approach remains steadfast: humble, grounded, and centered on quality. They pride themselves on the quiet, steady work done in both vineyard and winery.

As the family approaches its 125th anniversary since Joseph Pelissa first planted his vines, Ghost Block Estate Wines and Napa Wine Company stand as enduring proof that devotion to the land and service to others can build a legacy that lasts for generations.

This feature only begins to tell the Pelissa family story. In upcoming issues, we’ll explore more of their vineyards, wines, and the generations who continue shaping Napa Valley from the ground up.

For more information www.ghostblockwine.com