Theopolis Vineyards, located in California's Yorkville Highlands, is a small lot vineyard and handcrafted winery. If you're familiar with the area, it's situated along Highway 128 in southeastern Mendocino County near the border of Sonoma County. The AVA (sort for American Viticultural Area) is a highly elevated, rugged interior wine-growing area.
If you're watching the new sitcom Grand Crew on NBC, you might have noticed a Theopolis Vineyards poster in the background at their favorite new wine bar. Established in 2003, the vineyard received a rating of 94-96 points from wine critic Robert Parker on their first harvest in 2006.
Theopolis Vineyard is owned and founded by Theodora R. Lee, also know by folks in the wine industry as Theo-patra, Queen of the Vineyards. We sat down to talk to Theodora about everything from her career as a lawyer to what goes into making a delicious bottle of Theopolis wine.
Listen to the interview and shop Theodora's wines on the Coravin Wine Shop.
Behind the Wine with Theopolis Vineyards
2018 Theopolis Vineyards Estate Grown Petite Sirah
Bright fruit, firm tannins, and robust spice envelop this Estate Grown Petite Sirah. The glass opens with fragrant notes of black cherry, violets, and woodsy spices. Big notes of cola, vanilla, and blackberry jam burst on a palate framed by velvety tannins. This vintage will stand up now and age beautifully for decades.
2020 Theopolis Vineyards Estate Grown Rosé of Petite Sirah
This brilliant rosé bursts into the glass with inviting aromas of wildflowers, chamomile, strawberry, and fresh watermelon. The palate is dry and balanced with notes of fresh apples, wild berries, and a bright acidity that transcends to a long delicate finish.
2019 Theopolis Vineyards Theo-patra’s Cuvée Cerise
This complex cuvée of Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Petite Sirah is delightful from first smell to last sip. Rich cranberry, dried plum, and elegant spice create a beautiful potpourri on the nose. Bursts of soft baking spice give way to notes of blueberry jam and sweet vanilla that transcend to a long, juicy finish. A perfect glass on its own, this wine also pairs beautifully with warm, comforting cuisine.