Ceritas Wines: Producing fine wines in California
A sommelier by trade, John Raytek fell in love with the hilly lands and vineyards of New Zealand and decided to start a new chapter in his life by founding his own winery. Producing its very first vintage in 2005, Ceritas is a fine winery that is poised on the picturesque Northern California coast.
John Raytek and his partner, Pheobe Bass, work with meticulously selected and reputed vinegrowers, who each own plots of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines in the finest areas on the Sonoma Coast. Thus, the couple focus on building strong relationships, whether it be with local farmers, their team members, vine growers or locals throughout Sonoma.
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines in California
Ceritas Wines does not bear its own vineyards however, they work with reputed winegrowers who share their philosophy and produce the most delicious fruit. John Raytek firmly believes that perfect grapes greatly contribute to the creation of a fine wine.
From the soil, the climate, each row, the berries… The Ceritas teams do not simply collect the grapes from partner winegrowers, they are very much involved in the vine’s evolution are are in fact very hands on. The vines are managed in a biodynamic manner and the teams pay great attention to the needs of each plot. The vines are either cultivated using biodynamic farming practices or are currently converting towards biodynamic methods. Their deep understanding of the vines enables them to apply their knowledge in which they excel: the winemaking process.
A never-ending learning curve, Ceritas are constantly striving to craft the most exquisite Californian wines and are always looking to improve their winemaking practices. Producing limited quantities, Ceritas wines are renowned for their authentic expression and they express each vintage beautifully.
The West Sonoma Coast & Santa Cruz Mountains
Despite the common belief that the weather conditions in California are always sunny, the conditions in these American Viticultural Areas ( AVA) are cooler than the rest of the region, due to the maritime influence. The climate in this area gives rise to top-tier wines that are adored throughout the world. The wines from this part of the USA are often compared to Burgundy wines.
West Sonoma Coast
Situated in the west of the United States, Sonoma Coast is a beautiful wine region and comprises various AVAs. The West Sonoma Coast AVA is to the very west of the region, along the Pacific Coast. The mountainous and hilly landscape is predominantly planted with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah.
Santa Cruz Mountains
A mountainous AVA situated within the larger Sonoma Coast region, the Ceritas vines are planted at a high altitude and on different slopes and sun exposures. The soils are composed of sandstone, schist and dark minerals. The cool climate of this area is perfectly suited to the Burgundian varieties such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
