Exceptional Cool Climate Vineyards on America’s Pacific Coast
My wine journey and dream of making my own wines started around the year 2000. Like many of you, I took a trip to California and was instantly smitten with the wines, the people, the history, the stories, and the conviviality that goes along with it! To me, wine was a perfect combination of nature and art, and I dreamed of getting deeper into it as someone who loves to learn.
After traveling to some of the greatest wine regions of the world, I began to develop an understanding of terroir and winemaking techniques that I personally enjoyed. I wanted to work with the grapes that I love—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay—while focusing on “cool climate” vineyard sites that were organically or sustainably farmed. With that framework, the idea of Climat Frais, from the French meaning “cool climate,” was born. The vision for Climat Frais is to find the best cool-climate fruit and put it in the hands of a winemaker who knows that region better than anyone else—the best of the best, the cream of the crop.
The first area that met my criteria was Cambria, CA. I was introduced to the SLO Coast AVA through Rajat Parr. It is one of the most beautiful wine-growing regions I have ever seen. Moving northward, the next region is the cool Sonoma Coast AVA. I am excited to continue the hunt for truly exceptional vineyard sites along America’s Pacific Coast.
Stylistically, I wanted the best of the old world and the best of the new world coming together in harmony. My formula is pretty simple: (Sustainable Farming + Great Terroir) = Great Fruit. (Great Fruit + Great Winemaking) = Great Wines. My idea of a great wine is something that excites your senses and your palate, without costing a fortune. I will always strive to create great wines at fair prices to enjoy in your homes or your favorite restaurants. Please enjoy!
All the best,
Eric Schaefer
Proprietor, Climat Frais Wines