There are some ideas that are widely considered to be universal truths. Lessons that traverse cultures and time, regions and religions. These are often bigger than what can be fully expressed in a few phrases, and require room to make one’s own. They are multi-faceted lessons, condensed to an image. One that can be held, turned, examined and observed. One that can be viewed from different angles, applied in various realms, and made tangible. The parable is a method of conveying these ideas.

And so it is with Parable Wines. The Eppright family came to the project with varying goals, experience in different arenas, and brought their unique perspectives and strengths together to begin the venture. What unifies them is the commitment to excellence-in business decisions, stewardship, and farming. Applying the principles of several parables, the best fruit happens under the best conditions. The best conditions also require a watchful eyes, careful pruning, and patience.

Trey Eppright’s passion for the vine began decades ago. He committed to learning everything he could about the process and the product. When he was certain about the path he was pursuing, he enlisted the help of his father, Fred. Fred Eppright approached this as another solid business venture. His years of experience in Austin real estate had prepared him. So, when Trey found the property in the Silverado Trail, just south of Calistoga, he was ready to facilitate the purchase and rebuilding. The property had formerly been the Dutch Henry Winery. The buildings had been destroyed in the Glass Fire in 2020. Matt Eppright brings his background in finance and entrepreneurship.

While it is a family business at the core, there were other crucial roles to fill. The Eppright’s turned to Kale Anderson, a highly respected winemaker with over 20 years of experience making wines in the region. Brian Kelleher brings a similar level of experience as a General Manager. Jane Aitong Jiang is the Assistant Winemaker.

While the property has a 2.5 acre vineyard, the Eppright’s knew they would need to source grapes from elsewhere. For that, they turned to some of the most respected sources in the region. The Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from Beckstoffer Bourn Vineyard (St. Helena) and the organic Vangone Vineyard (Napa Valley-ask about the story of this spot if you visit). The Chardonnay from Antinori Antica (Atlas Peak), Larry Hyde & Sons (Napa Carneros), and Ritchie Vineyard (Russian River Valley).

Each wine is single vineyard, small production. I had the privilege of tasing these wines during their Austin launch in April.

2022 Chardonnay, Ritchie Vineyard, Russian River Valley– $90

Fermented in concrete for nine months, stored in neutral barrel. Fresh golden apple, lively citrus, white flowers, with a softened mouthfeel.

2022 A18, Antinori Antica, Atlas Peak– $90

More tropical notes due to ripening in a west facing vineyard. Secondary nutty notes with a creamy mouthfeel. Could pair well with a range of dishes. Aged in French oak, a third new, for 10 months.

2022 Larry Hyde & Sons, Carneros, Napa Valley-$90

Fermented in a combination of stainless and French oak, aged in half new French oak. Pineapple, peach and a hint of pine needles. Gorgeous mouthfeel. Complex finish.

2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Vangone Vineyard, Napa Valley-$225

Bursting with notes of cassis and black cherry, cigar box and baking spices, echoed on the palate. Deep ruby hue, elegant tannins, lingering finish.

2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Beckstoffer Bourn Vineyard, St. Helena– $275

Intense black fruit fades to violets and cocoa. Bold, sturdy. Would love to see how this develops with time in the glass and in the cellar.

The Eppright family has taken a proverbial dream, the idea of reaping the rewards of ones efforts, in life and in the fields, and bottled it. They chose a location many can relate to and commonly known grapes. Through carefully selected vineyards and barrels, the fruit is uniquely expressive. With a delicate hand and nuanced vision, they’ve created a tangible, multi-faceted product that can be held, turned, examined, and enjoyed.

While they are still in the process of building their tasting room, the wines are available to taste through private appointments and limited allocation. Many thanks to the Eppright family for the invitation and to Qi for the incredible paired meal.