A Diamond Mountain Gem: Theorem Vineyards

When Kisha and Jason Itkin first visited the historic Diamond Mountain property they would come to own as Theorem Vineyards, it was love at first sight.

Perched on the northern slope of Calistoga’s Diamond Mountain at 1100 feet above sea level with beautiful views of Mount St. Helena, Theorem Vineyards is the result of the Itkin’s meticulous, decade-long restoration and renovation effort.

The Houston based couple understood that the site’s unique location with its special blend of minimal fog, abundant sunlight, and volcanic soils would yield greatness in the vineyard, and thus, in their wines. And they were right.

WINE

Theorem’s portfolio of high elevation wines now includes bottlings from the home vineyard on Diamond Mountain as well as a second estate vineyard on Moon Mountain in Sonoma.

 The winery’s flagship Voir Dire (a wink to Jason’s vocation as one of the Nation’s preeminent trial attorneys) and Hawk’s Prey Diamond Mountain Estate Cabernets plus an estate Merlot are delicious testaments to the quality of Diamond Mountain vineyard fruit. Complementing these offerings, the winery also crafts small lots of estate Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet from their pristine Moon Mountain District vineyard.

Theorem’s original wine styles were developed by renowned winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown, but the reins are now in winemaker Kathleen Ward’s adept hands. 

HOSPITALITY

By-appointment-only tours and tastings are held within a variety of the winery’s Diamond Mountain venues: in the stunning new Tasting Barn, in the stylish tasting salon, or al fresco with sweeping views of Mt. St. Helena and the Palisades range.

For pure indulgence, select a customized VIP wine pairing experience prepared by Theorem Executive Chef Josh Mitchell and inspired by what’s in season and delicious – including ingredients plucked from the winery’s own garden.

Or, opt for the splurge-worthy Baccarat Tasting Experience, a sumptuous, one-of-a-kind wine and food exploration enhanced by luxurious Baccarat crystal. Included is a guided walking tour of Theorem’s Diamond Mountain property that culminates at one of the winery’s scenic outdoor lookout points, or in the soaring, open air tank room where a dazzling table festooned with fine linens, fresh-cut flowers and Baccarat crystal pieces await. 

The tasting includes three of Theorem’s high-elevation, estate bottlings served with delicious food parings prepared exclusively for the occasion by Mitchell. ($750 per person.)

HERITAGE

The Itkins’ initial renovation efforts included the rescue and restoration of several historically significant buildings (including a one room schoolhouse) dating to the mid-1800s, and the preservation and replanting of the vineyard which had suffered from neglect.

They also constructed a new state-of-the-art winery. Most recently, the duo debuted the Tasting Barn at Theorem Vineyards – a loving homage to the site’s original 19^th century dairy barn that was dilapidated beyond repair.

The new, world-class visitor venue is evocative of its former purpose with barn-red shiplap cedar siding, Dutch doors, and a wraparound porch. The luxurious interior, boasting vaulted ceilings, delicate iron chandeliers, and sweeping views, creates an inviting space for sublime wine enjoyment.