The Crane Assembly
About The Crane Assembly
The Crane Assembly is centered around a unique eight-acre property located in the gravel rich soils of southern St. Helena. It is believed that George Beldon Crane, or simply G.B. Crane, first established grapes on this site in the year 1885, making it one of the oldest vineyards in the Napa Valley. Although records are scarce, it was most likely planted as a field blend commonly known as “mixed blacks”. This field blend traditionally consisted of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignan, and a smattering of lesser-known grape varieties such as Alicante Bouschet, Mourvedre and Valdiguie.
What The Crane Assembly Say
Of the 6.5 acres in production, approximately four acres are Crane’s original plantings. This four-acre block has been continuously farmed for nearly one hundred and forty years by a number of different people…and now it is our turn to take on that responsibility. In addition to Crane’s old vine section, there is also a 1.6 acre block of Cabernet Sauvignon, a 1.4 acre block of Petite Sirah, and two rows of Merlot.
We are very proud of these wines and the history and tradition they represent. We encourage you to visit the vineyard and allow us to share with you all that it means to us.
What Jennifer loves
The GB Crane vineyard is a legendary plot lost to the viewer who sees nothing but perfect rows down Highway 29. I find the story and history of this place worth exploring, particularly given the wand of famed winemaker Dave Phinney.
