Eidolon

Planted in 1999, our 18-acre estate vineyard is located in the southeast corner of the Walla Walla Valley, in the revered cobblestones region. This ancient river bed is covered with massive basalt cobblestones, similar to the profile of vineyards in the Chateauneuf-du-Pape region of Southern France. The cobblestones penetrate deep into the soil profile, retaining heat during the day which they radiate back to the vines during the cooler evening hours.

We are dedicated to raising high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec and Petit Verdot through environmentally sound farming practices. Vineyard Manager Tom Waliser, who played a key role in forming VINEA, the Walla Walla Valley’s Sustainable Trust, brings vast experience and a firm belief in sustainable farming practices. He ensures that great care is taken when caring for the vineyard. Every grape is tended by hand, including crop thinning, leaf pulling and harvesting.

Sitting at a slightly higher elevation than the majority of the plots in the cobblestones protects the vineyard from freezing temperatures that could potentially wipe out an entire crop or the entire vineyard. It’s been nearly 20 years since this prized farming plot has had a documented freeze.

The cobblestones in this part of the valley provide an ideal environment for low-vigor vines that produce concentrated flavors, making Eidolon Vineyard an appealing source to draw fruit from. Charles Smith Wines has sourced Syrah for their Guido, and the Cabernet Sauvignon is a part of Drew Bledsoe’s Doubleback wine. In addition, Caleb Foster harvested Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon for Buty’s Redivia of the Stones while his own vineyard, located next to Eidolon, came online.