Al and Sonia Franklin have lived in four places since they married, but none can compare to Napa Valley. “None have been as warm and embracing as the people we have met in Napa. We are both incredibly impressed with how giving everybody has been regarding their time, insights, and invitations to their facilities,” Al said.
The Franklins welcome the guidance because they recently purchased a home on the border of Napa Valley and Sonoma County and a 12-acre property with a four-acre Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc vineyard on Atlas Peak.
“We had looked at vineyards all over the valley, but none were a good fit for us. When we found this one, it was a good fit. And we love our neighbors—it’s pretty good company to keep when you’re near Stagecoach Vineyards, Au Sommet, Kongsgaard and Reverie II.”
Next, they found their new home on the Sonoma/Napa border. “It was pretty much love at first sight. It’s got staggering views of Mount Saint Helena. It was not on the market, and we immediately moved on it.” With unwavering resolve, they decided to purchase the home and the vineyard, make Napa Valley their permanent home, and embark on a new chapter of their lives.
“We hope to have our own label by the fall of 2025, at the latest.” The name of their vineyard is Mystery 1914. “On one of our earlier visits to the vineyard, we found a large block of stone engraved with 1914 on one side. We have no idea of the genesis of that rock, so we’re calling the vineyard Mystery 1914.”
Al and Sonia met while working in healthcare finance. One day, Sonia and a colleague intercepted one of Al’s regular wine club shipments and decided to play a joke on him. They replaced his luxury wine with a huge bottle of Miller Highlife and a pack of Camel cigarettes, complete with tasting notes. “And that’s where our wine journey began,” Al shared.
After visiting Napa Valley together, they decided they would eventually reside here. “Getting our heads around the idea of being a vineyard owner and winemaker took a little bit more time and a lot more money.”
The transition isn’t without challenges. Learning the intricacies of grape growing and winemaking, such as understanding the terroir, managing the vineyard, and mastering the art of winemaking, proves daunting at times. They immersed themselves in the community of winemakers, seeking guidance from seasoned vintners who welcomed them with open arms. Al has nearly completed the UC Davis winemaking certificate program, and now that they have Winemaker Julien Fayard as well as Hardin Vineyard Management on board, the two have set some ambitious goals for their new business. “Our goal is [to produce] a premium wine. We are committed to producing the best wine the land will support, using the best people, and making the best possible wine.”
Like so many before them, they are raising their glasses to the timeless allure of Napa Valley—their home, their vineyard, and the next chapter of their wine journey.
