Q&A With Odonata Winemaker Denis Hoey

March 04, 2016
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The second annual Silicon Valley Wine Auction takes place this April and highlights vintners of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The event also supports the STEM education programs of the Silicon Valley Education Foundation. To gear up for this day of wine & food for education, we connected with Denis Hoey of Odonata Wines to learn about his winemaking process and involvement this year's Silicon Valley Wine Auction. Here's what he said...

ESV: It seems like you have spent most of your life in the Bay Area. What are some of your biggest learnings from growing wine in this area?

Denis: No season is alike, but they are all pretty great.  Each one comes with its own new set of challenges and that keeps it interesting.  I learn many new things every season which will keep me engaged, and excited with each one.  The biggest thing to learn is that you cannot ever know it all.

ESV: If you had to give a three sentence pitch about your wines and vineyards, what would you say? 

Denis: Our wines are distinct, powerful, and quality.  This all stems from our meticulous cultivation of the grapes, which translates to a beautiful end product.  Our price for the quality is our hallmark.

ESV: What are you most looking forward to during this year's Silicon Valley Wine Auction? 

Denis: I love the exposure to Santa Cruz appellation this event provides.  It is a special place and the wines that come from the mountains are like no other.  I am very honored to pour next to so many excellent wineries.

ESV: What wine are you most well-known for and where can our readers purchase it?

Denis: From the Santa Cruz Mountains, our cold climate Syrah's are probably the most known that we do!  You can find them at 41st Ave Liquors, and Shoppers Corner.  Also Falcon Hill Vineyard is our estate Santa Cruz Mountain Pinot that we are starting to be known for as well, it has been producing since 2012 so young to the market.

ESV: What else should we know about Odonata wines? 

Denis: Odonata Wines is the realization of hard work, determination and luck.  I have worked tirelessly to build a winery from nothing.  After 10 years, meeting the right people (both growers and mentors) at the right time, Claire and I are proud to be a legitimate winery. We are thriving and I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to do what I love, live where I live, and keep striving to improve upon my craft and the business year after year. I love wine!

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