Stay tuned for our next winemaker dinner as Alejandro Medina from Juice Box brings Rajat Parr to Denver to taste and contemplate some of his finest wines. Enjoy an evening of wine tasting perfectly paired with dinner by Justin Freeman of Somebody People.
🗓️ Wednesday 21st of August
🕕 from 6 to 9 pm
🎟️ $70 per person
📍 2162 Larimer St. Downtown Denver
About Rajat:
Rajat Parr is a three-time James Beard-award winner, renowned winemaker and recipient of Wine Spectator's Grand Award who has been making wine in California for over 20 years. He is known for his commitment to sustainable farming and his use of natural winemaking techniques. Parr's wines have been praised by critics and consumers alike.
He is a passionate advocate for sustainable farming and natural winemaking. He believes that these practices are essential for producing high-quality wines that are both delicious and sustainable. Parr's journey is a culmination of various pursuits, from traditional winemaking to regenerative farming, all united by his unwavering commitment to excellence and sustainability. As he continues to make his mark on the wine industry, his passion for the craft and the environment remains at the forefront of his endeavors.
At Phelan Farm, Parr has exhibited a deep commitment to regenerative agriculture, employing practices such as cover cropping, site specific compost, sheep for weed control, and innovative alternative sprays including milk-based treatments for fungal issues. This commitment to environmentally-conscious farming aligns with his overarching philosophy of preserving the land for future generations while producing exceptional wines that tell a story of the terroir.
Cambria's unique climate, characterized by cold temperatures, provides an ideal environment for the cultivation of grapes with distinct flavors. Rajat Parr, recognized for his expertise in cool-climate viticulture, is well-suited to harness the potential of these vineyards. His decision to pick grapes late in the season due to the colder summer temperatures aligns perfectly with the varietals he specializes in. Phelan Farms is located three miles from the ocean and is now home to Savagnin, Poulsard, Trousseau, Pink Chardonnay, and other varietals grafted by Parr in addition to the existing own-rooted Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. He plans to expand the production of these wines at Stolo Vineyard (an an additional 22.5 acre property purchased in 2023).
Rajat Parr's influence reaches beyond the vineyard, as he actively explores the potential of abandoned vineyards, along with Scythian Wine Co. east of Los Angeles. Collaborating with the Galliano family, who have owned the vineyard since 1927, Parr is revitalizing these historic and neglected vines, contributing to the revival of Los Angeles' winemaking heritage and showcasing his deep respect for the traditions of the land.
Parr is also the co-founder of Sandhi Wines and Domaine de la Côte, and he has also made wine for a number of other wineries, including Colete and Evening Land. He has written two books on winemaking.