Jordan Winery is a hidden gem in Alexander Valley. Up a winding driveway, through the woods, and yes – even over a creek, you meander up to the upper vineyard of the winery, where the French inspired chateau winery sits. It was founded in 1972, coincidentally the same year both I and our host john jordan, were born – based on the dream of creating world class Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay in Sonoma. I’d say that they have accomplished that dream quite nicely.
John Jordan, CEO
Tom Jordan began the winery in 1972, when he signed the deed the day John, his son, was born; the first blocks in the lower vineyard were purchased then, and in 1974 the property was expanded to incorporate the upper ranch of the vineyards. Construction began on the winery in 1976, and the first Cabernet Sauvignon was released in 1980. Fast forward 25 years, and John, the prodigal son returned to the home ranch where he grew up, to take over. John Jordan, the current CEO, took over operations in 2005 after a successful career in law. In fact, he STILL works in law, which is rather amazing considering what it takes to run a place like Jordan well. When he took over, John strived to find the best of old world techniques and new world know how, including sustainable farming techniques and a unique focus on a welcoming hospitality center which includes a private library tasting room as well as Michelin star worthy dining experience.
On our arrival to the winery, we were greeted by John, Lisa Mattson (@jordanwinery) – my friend and Jordon’s Communications Director, as well as a great video blogger-, Brent Young – the viticulturist, and hors d’oeuvres by Chef Todd Knoll who was tucked away in the kitchen preparing our nosh. The 2008 Russian River Chardonnay that was paired with the tidbids was not at all what I was expecting and absolutely delightful. I found lively citrus, stone fruit and a creamy mineral finish, while being subtle and not at all over oaked or overly full of buttery malolactic fermentation. The lemonade flavors gave way to baking spices, green apples, and Asian pears. this wine is treated with only 55% new French Oak, while the rest is in 1-2 year old barres; a full 25% is stainless steel fermented, which allows the fruit to shine through. The 75% of barrel fermented wine balances out the stainless steel and the 28% malolactic fermentation rounds out the wine while retaining the crisp refreshing chard that even this ABC curmudgeon would love. This wine was literally just released (May 1st) and at $29 I would recommend it for summer sipping.
After our chardonnay, we stepped in tot he dining room which is in the end of one wing of the tank room. And by tank room, I don’t mean large steel drums. I mean beautiful, hand built oak tanks, which look as if they should sing to you. In the dining room, our tables were set with beautifully hand 
calligraphered corks with our names, as well as a menu card (which clearly I could not see well as it’s blurry here).
Oh man, I clicked over to comment about how stunning the winery looks and it's already the topic of conversation! Thanks for the Twitter links though, I'm adding to my wine lists.
You should! It was wonderful, and the wine was fab!
The winery looks gorgeous, the wines sound splendid, I'm ready to go, tomorrow!! I didn't Lisa Mattson was Jordan's Communications Director. I knew her when she worked for Wilson Daniels in St. Helena. She was always such a rockstar at what she does, Jordon's lucky to have her!
It was STUNNING! And honestly, they were so gracious – John spent his entire day with us, and was having as good of a time as we were! And yep – Miss Lisa hopped over to the BEST valley from WD, and she's STILL a rockstar!