Vintners
Home |
Riverbench
Interview with Riverbench Vineyards' Consulting Winemaker, Chuck Ortman
April 2010
Riverbench Vineyard was established in 1973, when its first Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes were planted on the property. For years since then, some of the most renowned wineries in Santa Barbara County have purchased their fruit for their own wines. Over time Riverbench has become a prominent name for high quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Santa Maria Valley.
Training
Chuck Ortman is recognized as one of California’s most respected winemakers. His winemaking career extends over nearly 40 years, during which he cultivated his signature “Ortman style” of winemaking.Chuck began his winemaking career in the cellar at Napa Valley’s Heitz Cellars in 1968. He quickly worked his way up in the winemaking ranks, and by the mid-1970’s he was consulting for some of Napa Valley’s premium wineries, including Far Niente, Shafer, and Cain. Along the way, Chuck became one of the first Californian winemakers to explore the benefits of barrel fermentation of Chardonnay, earning him the nickname “Mr. Chardonnay.”
Later, Chuck founded Meridian Vineyards in Paso Robles. The success of Meridian helped establish the Central Coast as one of California’s most dynamic and prestigious winegrowing regions.
Chuck now returns to his earlier years, when he sourced the fruit from Riverbench for Meridian. Over three decades, he has watched the progression of the vineyard, and is proud to carefully hand craft stellar small lots of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the paramount sections of our property.
What is your inspiration or philosophy for making wine?
We started making the Riverbench label in 2006. The vineyard was planted in 1973, but we’ve always sold the grapes to other producers throughout the state. We realized there is something really special about Riverbench grapes, so decided to start this small brand. Having all estate grown fruit these days is a rarity; under 1% of California wines are Estate grown.
When did you start making wine and how long have you been with your current vineyard?
We started making the Riverbench label in 2006. The vineyard was planted in 1973, but we’ve always sold the grapes to other producers throughout the state. We realized there is something really special about Riverbench grapes, so decided to start this small brand. Having all estate grown fruit these days is a rarity; under 1% of California wines are Estate grown.
What are your thoughts on the link between wine and charity?
Riverbench is more than just a winery; our ownership is a huge part of our local community, and they want to make an impact on things in a really responsible and admirable way. They truly are some of the most generous people I’ve ever worked for. Wine and winemaking are all about sharing experiences.