Our Story: A Chance Encounter, A Bold Vision
In New York's Central Park, an unexpected meeting between two dogs named Bella and Ty (the living embodiment of our "Meanmouth" label) brought together Kara and Wayne Fingerman. This chance encounter sparked a journey that would lead them from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the rugged terrains of Napa and Sonoma, forever changing their lives and redefining boutique winemaking.
The Birth of Hard Six
The name "Hard Six" isn't just a catchy phrase—it embodies our philosophy. In dice games, a hard six is a high-risk, high-reward proposition. It perfectly captures our approach to winemaking:
Choosing challenging, remote vineyards that others might overlook
Embracing minimal intervention techniques that let the land speak through our wines
Taking calculated risks in pursuit of extraordinary flavors and experiences
Our Vineyards: Characters in Our Story
Each of our vineyards has its own personality, challenges, and rewards:
Diamond Mountain: Perched above Napa Valley, surrounded by redwoods and firs.
Fort Ross-Seaview: Nestled in the Outer Coast range, battling extreme coastal weather.
Hennessey Ridge: High above its namesake lake, basking in high-elevation sunshine.
Our Winemaking Philosophy
We don't just make wine; we let the land speak through the grapes. Our commitment to minimal intervention winemaking isn't a trend—it's our core belief.
Hand-farming with meticulous attention to each vine
Promoting biodiversity and soil health
Embracing lower yields for more concentrated, expressive fruit
In the cellar: nothing added, nothing taken away