Relic Wines

Founded in 2001 by Michael Hirby and Schatzi Throckmorton, Relic Wines is a boutique, family-owned winery dedicated to producing handcrafted wines that emphasize complexity, elegance, and a strong sense of place. What began as a small project with just a few barrels of Pinot Noir has evolved into a highly respected winery known for sourcing fruit from some of California’s most exceptional vineyard sites. From the beginning, the founders focused on creating wines inspired by traditional winemaking methods while allowing each vineyard’s unique character to shine through.

Relic Wines is particularly recognized for its diverse portfolio, which includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rhône varietals, and old-vine vineyard selections. Rather than concentrating on a single grape variety, the winery seeks out distinctive vineyard sites that offer exceptional quality and personality. This vineyard-driven philosophy has helped Relic earn a loyal following among wine enthusiasts who appreciate wines with depth, nuance, and authenticity. The winery’s small-production approach allows for careful attention to every stage of the winemaking process, from vineyard management to fermentation, aging, and bottling.

A defining characteristic of Relic Wines is its commitment to balancing tradition with innovation. Founder and winemaker Michael Hirby developed his craft through years of experience working in respected wineries, bringing a thoughtful and meticulous approach to each vintage. The winery’s portfolio reflects a belief that great wines should be expressive, age-worthy, and capable of telling the story of the vineyards from which they originate.

Despite its growing reputation, Relic Wines remains intentionally small and hands-on. This dedication to quality over quantity has enabled the winery to maintain its artisanal character while producing wines that consistently receive praise from critics and collectors alike. Today, Relic Wines continues to represent the values of family ownership, craftsmanship, and vineyard expression, offering wine lovers a distinctive collection of limited-production wines that showcase the best of California winemaking.