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I. Brand & Family Wines

Owner/Winemaker Ian Brand
Winemaker Laurel (Winemaker)
Address 19 East Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley Village, CA 93924
Phone (831) 298-7227
Web Site https://www.ibrandwinery.com/
Email hello@ibrandwinery.com
First Vintage Early 2000s
Current Production
Tasting Hours Thu-Mon 11am-5pm

Overview

"Wine, in its highest form speaks indelibly of place. We are singularly focused on the mountains, valleys and beaches surrounding the Monterey Bay. Ours is an exhaustive study of the past, present and potential of our home on this beautiful slice of the Central Coast."

History

Founded by Ian Brand after working at Bonny Doon (early 2000s), Big Basin, and other Santa Cruz Mountains wineries. Built winery from scratch in warehouse in Salinas. 2018: San Francisco Chronicle Winemaker of the Year.

Location

Tasting room in Carmel Valley Village. Production facility in Salinas, Monterey County.

Winemaking Philosophy

Site-driven, honest wines reflecting soil and sea. Champion of overlooked coastal regions, especially Monterey County. Gritty independence, artistic flair.

Team

  • Ian Brand - Founder/Owner
  • Laurel - Winemaker
  • Patrick - Assistant Winemaker
  • Katey - Cellarmaster
  • Erin - Director of Local Partnership, Sales & Outreach
  • Parker - VP of Sales & Growth
  • Vince - Lead Ambassador (8 years in cellar, now tasting room)

Vineyards

Escolle Vineyard - Santa Lucia Highlands

  • Cooling influence from Monterey Bay
  • Granitic soils (reminiscent of Beaujolais)
  • Farmed by Scott Caraccioli
  • Recognized by Decanter: 94pts Chardonnay, 95pts Gamay Noir

Wines

Focus on Monterey County, Santa Lucia Highlands, and Central Coast regions:

  • Chardonnay - Escolle Vineyard (94pts Decanter)
  • Gamay Noir - Escolle Vineyard (95pts Decanter)
  • Paysan - Wines available
  • Verdelho

Wine Club

Available with access to limited releases and events.

Related

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