Murrieta's Well Estate Vineyard Celebrates Bordeaux Grape Varieties

Winemaker Robbie Meyer blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Sirah, and Petit Verdot for the 2017 Murrieta's Well The Spur

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Murrieta's Well Estate Vineyard in California's Livermore Valley has a rich history dating back to 1884 when Louis Mel first planted cuttings from Chateau d'Yquem and Chateau Margaux. Today, winemaker Robbie Meyer carefully selects grapes from the 500-acre estate to craft food-friendly wines, including the 2017 Murrieta's Well The Spur which features a blend of Bordeaux grape varieties.

Why it matters

The Livermore Valley has long been known for its ability to grow Bordeaux grape varieties, and Murrieta's Well is one of the region's most historic and acclaimed wineries. This story highlights the winery's commitment to blending traditional French varietals to create unique and distinctive wines.

The details

The 2017 Murrieta's Well The Spur is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 14% Petite Sirah, and 9% Petit Verdot. Winemaker Robbie Meyer says the Petite Sirah adds 'deliciousness and fleshes out the juiciness of the blend.' The wine was fermented in steel and aged for 24 months in 40% new, 40% second use, and 20% third use French oak.

  • Murrieta's Well Estate Vineyard was first planted in 1884.
  • Ernest Wente purchased the property in the 1930s and it remains part of the Wente Family estate.

The players

Murrieta's Well Estate Vineyard

A historic winery in California's Livermore Valley that was first planted in 1884 and is now part of the Wente Family estate.

Robbie Meyer

The winemaker at Murrieta's Well who carefully selects grapes from the 500-acre estate to craft food-friendly wines.

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What they’re saying

“There is nothing quite like growing fruit in the vineyard, caring for it in the winery and crafting it into something people can enjoy.”

— Robbie Meyer, Winemaker (nowandzin.com)

“The Spur is a survey of the property.”

— Robbie Meyer, Winemaker (nowandzin.com)

The takeaway

Murrieta's Well's commitment to growing and blending traditional Bordeaux grape varieties in the Livermore Valley highlights the region's ability to produce high-quality, food-friendly wines that balance elegance and complexity.