After 40 years of managing companies, primarily in a start-up or turn-around mode, Milt Honea wanted an active retirement that was completely different from his business career. An outdoor “office”, owning a piece of land and growing a crop in beautiful Santa Barbara County seemed to fit the bill, and wine grapes were the most appealing, romantic crop choice.

The choice of Italian varietals came from a liking of Italy, Italian people, and Italian wine. And Milt's business acumen couldn’t be left behind – he wanted to operate in a different niche than other winegrape growers in the area. It appeared that Italian varietals in California, particularly in Santa Barbara County and specifically in the Alamo Pintado corridor, were poised to grow to a position of eminence. The opportunity to work with Steve Clifton clinched the decision to develop the vineyard.

The first plantings occurred in the summer of 2003. First harvest, a partial crop, is expected in 2005. In addition to the Italian varietals, a small acreage of Merlot was planted several years ago by the previous owners and is bearing excellent quality fruit.