The Karuk tribe calls Orleans the “Center of the Universe.” That’s a big claim for a town with a population of 440. Orleans is about 100 miles from the Oregon border, surrounded by steep gorges along the Klamath River. It marks the convergence of three separate wilderness areas, making it one of the most diverse bioregions in the US. It’s a pretty special place.
John Cabot lives and farms his organic vineyard in Orleans, the northernmost vineyard in California. Before John planted grapes, he managed an organic farm for ten years, nourishing within him a deep respect for the land. He opposes the use of chemicals on his vines and exposing his family and workers. “We don’t advertize organic on our labels, it’s just a way of life for us,” he says.
I feel so fortunate to have crossed paths with Cabot a couple years back. It is rare to find such honest intention, unrelenting passion, commitment to quality and a will to create, even in isolation. His inspiration comes from within and his mission is pure: to treat the land right, farm naturally and make wines he believes in with all his heart, wines that reflect the unique grape-growing region he had the foresight to pioneer.
I highly recommend the Humboldt Syrah, Kimberly’s Syrah or Klamath Cuvee. The best place to purchase John’s wine is through the Cabot Vineyards website.