In 1997 John
York and Paula Payne bought land in the San Diego County backcountry a few miles outside of
Ramona, California and carved Hellanback Ranch out of the wild chaparral. In the beginning, there
were no roads, no electricity, no neighbors - nothing. Real pioneers!
Hellanback
Ranch Vineyard was established in the Winter of 2006. Ranch operations were limited to raising cattle
and a few pigs before the idea of planting vineyards took root. Collecting (and drinking) wine at the ranch was always
a favorite pastime, but when dedicated winegrape growers in the area managed to get the Ramona Valley designated as an American
Viticultural Area (AVA), the dream of creating a winery seemed like the logical next step.
Ramona
actually has a long history of growing grapes and making wine, dating back to the early Spanish missions. Ramona is
located between the front range of the coastal mountains of Southern California and the Pacific Ocean, enjoying hot days and
cool nights influenced by the coastal marine layer. The area is ideal for growing quality warm weather varietals such
as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Zinfandel, Merlot, Sangiovese, Viognier, and others.
John
and Paula are members of the Ramona Valley Vineyard Association, whose mission is "sharing of viticulture experience,
methods, and innovations which produce quality fruit and promote the Ramona Valley as a premier wine region." John
formerly served as the association's President, and is currently serving as the Program Coordinator. He offers his time
to members of the RVVA and the wine grape community at large to promote sustainable vineyard practices and quality wine making.
