Kendall-Jackson

Jess Jackson founded Kendall-Jackson in 1982 with the release of the now-iconic Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay, a wine that gained immense popularity for its rich, fruit-forward style. Jackson was instrumental in promoting estate-grown wines and vertically integrating his business to control quality at every stage. Over the decades, Kendall-Jackson has expanded its vineyard holdings across California, acquiring key sites in Sonoma, Napa, and beyond. Jackson Family Wines has since grown into one of the largest family-owned wine companies in the world.

Kendall-Jackson is based in Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, with vineyards across California. While its home estate is in the Russian River Valley, the winery sources fruit from diverse AVAs, including Mendocino, Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Napa Valley, allowing for a broad range of expressions across its wine portfolio.

Kendall-Jackson’s vineyard holdings span thousands of acres across California, with a strong focus on cool-climate regions that enhance varietal expression. The winery prioritizes sustainable farming, holding certifications such as CCSW (Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing). Notable vineyard sources include sites in the Russian River Valley for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as high-elevation vineyards for Cabernet Sauvignon.

The winemaking philosophy at Kendall-Jackson centers on balancing richness with acidity, ensuring wines remain fruit-driven yet structured. The winery is known for its use of oak aging, particularly in its Chardonnay, which often undergoes malolactic fermentation for a creamy texture. The estate’s wines maintain consistency across vintages due to extensive blending and reserve wine programs.

Kendall-Jackson’s flagship wine is the Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay, one of the best-selling premium Chardonnays in the U.S. Other key wines include its Grand Reserve and Jackson Estate series, which showcase more site-specific expressions. The winery also produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot, with a focus on full-bodied, approachable styles.

The Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens in Santa Rosa offers tastings, food pairings, and a culinary garden experience. Visitors can explore the estate’s extensive food and wine programs, with a strong emphasis on farm-to-table pairings. Private tastings and vineyard tours provide insight into the winery’s approach to sustainable viticulture and winemaking.