Grapes for Wineries & Cellars
At Corteza Vineyards, we proudly offer premium wine grapes by the ton to wineries and cellar buyers seeking exceptional quality and character. Our vineyards are nestled in Knightsen, California, where warm days, cool delta breezes, and well-drained sandy-loam soil create an ideal microclimate for Mediterranean grape varieties.
We specialize in Grenache, Grenache Blanc, and Carignan — each grown with organic and sustainable farming practices and nurtured on head-trained, dry-farmed vines that are 35+ years old.
Our Varieties
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Grenache – Grown in our warm, sun-filled blocks, producing vibrant fruit with bright red cherry, raspberry, and subtle spice notes. Balanced acidity and supple tannins make it ideal for elegant, layered wines.
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Grenache Blanc – Thrives in our coastal-influenced climate, yielding aromatic wines with crisp citrus, pear, and floral hints, plus refreshing minerality.
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Carignan – From deep-rooted old vines, this variety develops rich, dark berry flavors with earthy undertones and natural freshness, adding structure and depth to blends or standing beautifully on its own.
Whether you’re a boutique winery or an established cellar, Corteza Vineyards offers the consistency, quality, and character you can taste in every cluster.
📦 Available by the ton — 2026 harvest details to be announced.
More Information - FAQ
1. Do you sell grapes by the ton or by the pound?
We sell grapes by the ton for wineries and cellar buyers. Smaller quantities by the pound are available for home winemakers upon request.
2. Can we schedule a sample test before harvest?
Yes, we welcome wineries to schedule vineyard visits and take grape samples before harvest. This allows you to test sugar, acid, and flavor development before committing to a pick date.
3. What’s the Brix level of each variety this year?
Brix levels vary slightly each season depending on weather and ripening progress. We provide weekly vineyard updates during harvest season so you can track the numbers for Grenache, Grenache Blanc, Carignan, and Clairette as they approach optimal ripeness.
4. How are grapes picked — by hand or machine?
All Corteza Vineyards grapes are hand-picked to ensure the highest fruit quality and minimize damage to the berries. This careful handling preserves freshness and integrity for fermentation.
5. Do you sort or de-stem grapes before delivery?
The grapes are delivered as whole clusters directly from the vineyard. Wineries typically handle sorting and de-stemming at their facility.
6. What’s your yield per acre this season?
Yield varies by block and variety, but on average we produce 3 to 4 tons per acre. Older head-trained vines, such as our 35+ year-old Grenache, naturally yield a bit less, focusing on fruit concentration and flavor intensity.
7. Can we reserve specific vineyard blocks?
Yes, we offer block reservations for returning or committed buyers. This ensures consistency in your grape source and winemaking style from year to year.
8. Do you offer organic or sustainably grown grapes?
Yes. Corteza Vineyards practices organic and sustainable viticulture, using no synthetic herbicides or pesticides. Our vines are head-trained and dry-farmed, focusing on soil health and balanced fruit.
9. How soon after picking can we arrange delivery?
Pick and delivery schedules are arranged in advance based on ripeness and winery location.
10. What’s your minimum order size for winery buyers?
We do not have a strict minimum order, but purchases are typically made by the ton for winery and cellar clients. Smaller quantities may be accommodated depending on availability.
