Folktale Winery: A Guide to its History and Wines

Folktale Winery is a family-owned winery located in Carmel, California. The winery is known for producing beautiful wines and experiences inspired by the uniqueness of place, the art and craft of winemaking, and the love of life. Folktale Winery is situated in a picturesque location surrounded by vineyard-covered hills, making it a popular destination for wine lovers and tourists alike.

The winery produces a variety of wines, including Albariño, Chardonnay, Grenache, Pinot Noir, and more. Each wine is crafted with care and precision, resulting in a unique and flavorful experience. Folktale Winery also offers a range of experiences, including wine tastings, tours, and events, all designed to showcase the beauty and charm of the winery and the surrounding area.

Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, Folktale Winery is a must-visit destination. With its stunning location, exceptional wines, and welcoming atmosphere, it's no wonder that this winery has become one of the most popular destinations in Carmel.

History of Folktale Winery

Carmel Valley Origins

Folktale Winery & Vineyards was founded in 1982 by Bob and Patti Brower as Chateau Julien Wine Estate in Carmel Valley, California. The Browers were inspired by their trips to the Bordeaux region of France and aimed to bring the experience of wine and hospitality to Carmel. In 1996, the winery property was expanded to the adjoining land, which included a historic 1920s hacienda.

Evolution of the Winery

In the summer of 2015, Greg and Madeline Ahn purchased the winery and rebranded it as Folktale Winery & Vineyards. Together, they focused on producing high-quality wines that embrace organic farming and natural winemaking. They also introduced a new vision for the winery, creating a space that combines wine, food, and entertainment.

Since then, Folktale Winery has become a centerpiece of the community, hosting events and concerts throughout the year. In addition to wine, the winery also offers a farm-to-table restaurant, a tasting room, and a variety of private event spaces.

Today, Folktale Winery & Vineyards continues to evolve and grow, while staying true to its roots in Carmel Valley. With its stunning location, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to creating unique experiences for guests, it has become a beloved destination for wine lovers from around the world.

Viticulture and Winemaking

Sustainable Practices

Folktale Winery is committed to sustainable practices in their vineyards. They use organic farming methods to ensure that the grapes are grown in a healthy and environmentally friendly way. They also use cover crops and compost to enrich the soil and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. In addition, they use drip irrigation to conserve water and reduce waste.

Winemaking Process

Folktale Winery uses a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques to produce their wines. After the grapes are harvested, they are carefully sorted and destemmed. The juice is then fermented in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels, depending on the type of wine being made. The winemakers carefully monitor the fermentation process to ensure that the wine develops the desired flavors and aromas.

Once the fermentation is complete, the wine is aged in oak barrels for several months to several years, depending on the wine. During this time, the wine develops more complex flavors and aromas. Finally, the wine is bottled and aged for a few more months before it is released for sale.

Folktale Winery produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Their wines have won numerous awards and are highly regarded by wine critics and enthusiasts alike.

Overall, Folktale Winery's commitment to sustainable practices and their use of traditional and modern winemaking techniques result in high-quality wines that are both delicious and environmentally friendly.

Wine Portfolio

Folktale Winery offers a diverse wine portfolio that showcases the terroirs of California. Each bottle of wine tells a unique story of place, time, and passion in the growing and making of wine.

Red Wines

Folktale Winery's red wines are a true representation of the winery's commitment to producing high-quality and creative boutique wines. The Pinot Noir is one of their most popular red wines, and it is easy to see why. This award-winning wine is a perfect balance of fruit, oak, and acidity. It has a beautiful ruby color, with a delicate aroma of red fruit and a hint of spice. The flavor is complex, with notes of cherry, raspberry, and a touch of vanilla.

White Wines

Folktale Winery's white wines are equally impressive, with the Chardonnay being a standout. This wine is a beautiful golden color, with a rich aroma of tropical fruit and a hint of oak. The flavor is complex, with notes of pineapple, mango, and a touch of butter. The acidity is well-balanced, giving the wine a crisp finish.

Specialty Wines

Folktale Winery's specialty wines are a unique addition to their wine portfolio. The Sparkling Rosé is a vivacious wine with a beautiful pink color and delicate bubbles. It has a fresh aroma of red fruit and a hint of citrus. The flavor is crisp and refreshing, with notes of strawberry and raspberry.

Overall, Folktale Winery's wine portfolio is a true representation of the winery's commitment to producing high-quality and creative boutique wines. Whether you are a fan of red wines, white wines, or specialty wines, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Tasting Experience

Folktale Winery offers a unique tasting experience that showcases their award-winning wines in a beautiful setting. Visitors can enjoy their wine in the serene wine garden, which is surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque views of the vineyards.

Wine Garden and Hospitality

The wine garden is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the wine tasting experience. The garden is beautifully landscaped and provides a tranquil and peaceful environment for visitors. The seating arrangement is comfortable and spacious, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, providing excellent hospitality to visitors. They are always willing to answer any questions visitors may have about the wine or the winemaking process.

Food and Wine Pairing

Folktale Winery offers food and wine pairing experiences that are sure to delight visitors. The winery has a culinary team that creates delicious and creative food pairings that complement the wine perfectly. The food is made using fresh and locally sourced ingredients, which adds to the overall tasting experience.

The winery offers several tasting options, including a classic tasting, reserve tasting, and a private tasting. Visitors can choose the option that best suits their preferences. The classic tasting includes a flight of five wines, while the reserve tasting includes a flight of six wines, including some of their limited edition wines. The private tasting is a more intimate experience that is perfect for small groups or couples.

Overall, the tasting experience at Folktale Winery is a must-try for any wine lover. The beautiful setting, excellent hospitality, and delicious food and wine pairings make for a memorable experience.

Events and Community Engagement

Folktale Winery & Vineyard is well-known for hosting a variety of private and public events throughout the year. From weddings to corporate events, the winery provides a picturesque setting for any occasion.

Private Events

Folktale Winery & Vineyard offers a variety of private event spaces that can accommodate up to 200 guests. The Barrel Room is a popular choice for intimate gatherings, while the Vineyard Lawn provides a stunning backdrop for larger events. The winery also offers a variety of catering options to fit any budget and taste preferences.

Public Concerts and Parties

In addition to private events, Folktale Winery & Vineyard hosts a number of public concerts and parties throughout the year. From live music performances to wine and food festivals, the winery provides a unique and engaging experience for visitors.

One of the most popular events hosted by the winery is the Wine Country Harvest Festival, presented by 92.7 KTOM. This annual festival celebrates the harvest season with live music, wine tastings, and local food vendors.

Folktale Winery & Vineyard also hosts a number of smaller events throughout the year, such as the Fresh Pasta Culinary Workshop. This hands-on workshop allows guests to learn the art of making fresh pasta while enjoying a glass of wine.

Overall, Folktale Winery & Vineyard is committed to engaging with the community and providing a variety of events for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to host a private event or attend a public concert, the winery has something for everyone.

Folktale Winery Amenities

Folktale Winery offers visitors a luxurious and picturesque experience with its beautiful natural surroundings and top-notch amenities. Whether you're looking for a romantic date spot or a place to unwind with friends and family, Folktale Winery has something for everyone.

Restaurant and Seating

The restaurant at Folktale Winery offers exquisite cuisine that is perfectly paired with their estate wines. The culinary team is inspired by California's changing seasons and offers delectable shareable options that will leave your taste buds yearning for more. Guests can enjoy their meal in the indoor dining room or outside in the Wine Garden. The seating is comfortable and provides a relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying your meal and the beautiful views.

Outdoor Settings and Gardens

Folktale Winery's outdoor settings and gardens are a sight to behold. The winery is nestled in Carmel Valley and surrounded by beautiful natural beauty. The gardens are meticulously maintained and provide a relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for a stroll or a picnic. The outdoor seating areas are comfortable and provide a perfect spot to enjoy the beautiful views while sipping on a glass of wine.

Overall, Folktale Winery's amenities provide visitors with a luxurious and relaxing experience that is perfect for any occasion. From the restaurant and seating to the outdoor settings and gardens, Folktale Winery has everything you need to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Carmel Valley.

Visiting Folktale Winery

Folktale Winery is located in the Santa Lucia Highlands, just a short drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including wine tastings, tours, and private events.

Location and Reservations

Folktale Winery is situated on a beautiful estate that features stunning landscapes and facilities. Visitors can make reservations for tours and tastings online through the winery's website. The reservation process is simple and easy to use, and visitors can choose from a variety of options to suit their needs.

Hours and Offerings

Folktale Winery is open daily from 11:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Visitors can enjoy a variety of offerings, including wine tastings, tours, and private events. The winery's tasting room features a wide selection of wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. Visitors can also purchase wine by the bottle or case.

In addition to wine tastings, visitors can take a guided tour of the winery's production facilities. The tour showcases the science and art behind Folktale wine and the winemaking industry. Visitors can also enjoy a tasting glass of bubbles and a taste of an exclusive wine.

Overall, Folktale Winery is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves wine and beautiful scenery. With its stunning landscapes, excellent wines, and friendly staff, it is sure to be a memorable experience for all who visit.

Membership and Exclusive Benefits

Wine Club Membership

Folktale Winery offers a wine club membership that provides exclusive access to award-winning wines, member-only events, and discounts on wine purchases. Members receive a carefully curated collection of four bottles per quarter that exemplify the Folktale winemaking style. Members can choose from Reds, Whites, or a mixed selection.

In addition to the quarterly wine shipments, members receive a 15% discount on wine purchases, access to member-only events, and exclusive releases of limited production wines. Members also receive priority access to the winery's hospitality offerings, including reservations at the on-site restaurant and private tours of the vineyards and production facilities.

Member Events and Perks

Folktale Winery offers a variety of events and perks exclusively for wine club members. Members can attend release parties for new wines, participate in winemaker dinners, and enjoy complimentary tastings and tours. Members also receive discounts on tickets to special events hosted by the winery.

In addition to the events, members have access to the winery's members-only section on the website. Members can log in to TOCK using the email associated with their account to access exclusive offers, including takeout orders of their favorite dishes from Folktale.

Overall, the wine club membership at Folktale Winery provides an excellent opportunity for wine enthusiasts to experience the winery's award-winning wines and hospitality offerings. The membership provides a unique and personalized experience for members, with exclusive access to limited production wines and member-only events.

Brand Philosophy and Mission

Folktale Winery & Vineyard is a family-owned business that is driven by a mission to "Make Life More Joyful." The winery's brand philosophy is centered around five core values, which are Respect, Evolution, Adventure, Character, and Humility (R.E.A.C.H.). These values are deeply ingrained in the company's culture and are reflected in its products, services, and interactions with customers.

The winery's mission is to produce high-quality and creative boutique wines that embrace organic farming and natural winemaking. Folktale Winery & Vineyard is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, and it strives to minimize its carbon footprint and reduce waste. The winery's dedication to quality and sustainability has earned it a reputation as one of the premier wineries in the region.

At Folktale Winery & Vineyard, character is a core value that is reflected in the winery's commitment to honesty, integrity, and transparency. The winery believes that building strong relationships with customers, employees, and partners requires mutual respect and trust. Folktale Winery & Vineyard is committed to treating everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their background, beliefs, or preferences.

In summary, Folktale Winery & Vineyard is a family-owned business that is driven by a mission to "Make Life More Joyful." The winery's brand philosophy is centered around five core values, which are Respect, Evolution, Adventure, Character, and Humility (R.E.A.C.H.). The winery's commitment to sustainability, quality, and character has earned it a reputation as one of the premier wineries in the region.