Discovering the Mel Vineyard: A Legacy Rooted in Livermore Valley

Nestled within the Livermore Valley’s rolling hills, the Mel Vineyard stands as a living testament to California’s rich winemaking history and Murrieta’s Well’s enduring legacy. Located between 575 and 715 feet above sea level, the vineyard is known for its exceptional terroir, diverse plantings, and deep historical significance. For generations, this vineyard has played a vital role in shaping the wines of Murrieta’s Well and the greater Livermore Valley. 

The story of the Mel Vineyard dates back to the 1880s, when Louis Mel, a pioneer in California winegrowing, planted the original vines using cuttings from the famed Château d’Yquem in Bordeaux. These cuttings included Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Vert, Semillon, and Muscadelle (known then as Muscade de Bordelais). Louis Mel was one of the early visionaries who recognized the potential of the Livermore Valley to produce world-class wines, and his passion laid the foundation for what would become a storied vineyard.

Although the vineyard has changed hands several times over the years, the Wente family has been consistently involved in its cultivation since its inception. In the 1940s, the family officially purchased the Mel Vineyard, securing its place as a cornerstone of the Wente and Murrieta’s Well winegrowing heritage. Today, the vineyard remains estate-owned and farmed with the same commitment to quality and sustainability that has guided generations of stewardship.

The Mel Vineyard is planted with an array of varieties that thrive in the unique conditions of the Livermore Valley, including Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Malvasia Bianca, Souzao, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The site’s well-drained Livermore very gravelly coarse sandy loam, along with areas of Positas and Pleasanton loam, create ideal growing conditions, particularly for Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The combination of gravelly soils and modest elevation helps develop concentrated fruit with vibrant acidity and structure.

Harvest at Mel Vineyard is strategically timed to highlight the best expression of each grape. White varieties are typically harvested in September, while red varieties follow in October. We hand-harvest select blocks, ensuring optimal fruit quality and gentle handling.

Our commitment to estate-grown wines is exemplified in the release of the 2024 Murrieta’s Well Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, sourced exclusively from the Mel Vineyard. This wine captures the essence of its origin with expressive aromatics, bright acidity, and layers of citrus and minerality that reflect the vineyard’s history and soils. It’s a true expression of the site and a celebration of our deep connection to the land.

As one of the foundational vineyards of Murrieta’s Well, Mel Vineyard represents more than just a place where grapes grow. It is a bridge between the past and the present—a site where history, sustainability, and craftsmanship converge to create wines of remarkable character and distinction.

We invite you to experience the legacy of the Mel Vineyard through a visit to Murrieta’s Well, where you can taste the wines that are shaped by this extraordinary site. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or exploring our heritage through a guided tasting, the story of Mel Vineyard continues to unfold with every vintage.