Blackbird Vineyards

Perched to seize the day as Oak Knoll's foremost Merlot is Blackbird Vineyards, located in the heart of the Oak Knoll District. Since 1999, this vineyard has quietly provided fruit to many of Napa's finest winemakers, for whom it has yielded astonishing reviews and stellar scorings. Purchased by entrepreneur Michael Polenske in 2003, who recognized its potential, Blackbird Vineyards is now an ultra premium label in its own right. (Fittingly, 'merlot' is French patois for 'little blackbird.') As artisans, the Blackbird team's goal is to create beautifully handcrafted wines that embody the best of what the Oak Knoll terroir has to offer. As Michael Polenske puts it, "Our promise is to offer a wine that represents our personal integrity and to maximize the natural advantage we have with a vineyard of truly unique character." In launching Blackbird as an ultra premium label, Polenske has assembled a dynamic team to execute his vision. Among them is Winemaker Aaron Pott, whose experience has included Quintessa,, Château Troplong Mondot, Premier Grand Cru Classé St. Emilion, Château La Tour Figeac Grand Cru Classé St. Emilion among other acclaimed producers. Consulting winemaker Sarah Gott, whose extensive experience producing noteworthy wines includes Insignia and Backus for Joseph Phelps, Quintessa, and Joel Gott Wines, which she makes with her husband.