Clay Mauritson of Mauritson Wines: Dry Creek Zinfandel and Rockpile Cabernet

 On this week’s Vine Wine & Dine, live from The Matheson in Healdsburg, hosts Larry Van Aalst, Michael Haney, and Chef Dustin Valette welcome Clay Mauritson of Mauritson Wines for a deep dive into Sonoma County terroir, family farming, and mountain-grown wines. Clay shares the story of his family’s six-generation history in Dry Creek Valley and Rockpile, and how he transformed a legacy of grape growing into a respected estate winery focused on small-lot, vineyard-driven wines. The conversation explores what makes Mauritson’s Dry Creek Zinfandel distinctive, from vineyard sourcing and winemaking style to how the wines pair with food. We also take a closer look at the rugged Rockpile AVA, discussing altitude, soils, wind, tannin structure, and the age-worthiness of Rockpile Cabernet Sauvignon. Featured pairings include fresh burrata with spicy coppa, tempura mushrooms, and a 14-day dry-aged Flannery New York steak. Wines poured on the show: the 2023 Mauritson Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel and the 2022 Mauritson Rockpile “Rockpile Ridge Vineyard” Cabernet Sauvignon.