Tor Wines (2022)

About TOR Wines

TOR Wines, founded in 2001 by industry veteran Tor Kenward, is a boutique winery in Napa Valley that has gained a reputation for producing some of the region’s most acclaimed small-lot wines. Kenward’s vision is rooted in his deep respect for Napa’s diverse terroirs and his long-standing relationships with some of the area’s top vineyard owners. By partnering with iconic sites such as Beckstoffer To Kalon, Vine Hill Ranch, Tierra Roja, and Melanson Vineyards, TOR crafts wines that express the unique character of each vineyard. These vineyards, known for their distinct soil compositions and microclimates, are the foundation for TOR’s focus on small-batch, single-vineyard wines.

Central to the success of TOR Wines is winemaker Jeff Ames, who has been with the winery since its inception and took on the role of head winemaker in 2003. Ames, a highly respected figure in Napa Valley, shares Kenward’s passion for vineyard-driven wines and brings a minimalist, hands-off approach to winemaking. His philosophy is to let the vineyard speak through the wine, using low-intervention techniques to highlight the distinct terroirs of each site. Ames’ experience working with some of the top producers in Napa, including Schrader Cellars and Maybach Family Vineyards, has honed his skills in producing expressive and balanced wines that emphasize purity, complexity, and elegance.

In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, TOR Wines also produces exceptional Chardonnays, which are known for their precision, balance, and focus. Sourced from premier vineyards in both Napa Valley and Sonoma, these Chardonnays exhibit bright acidity, minerality, and elegant oak integration, showcasing the finesse and complexity that Ames and Kenward aim to achieve. The fruit-forward nature of the wines is tempered by a clean, crisp finish, emphasizing the natural characteristics of the vineyards.

Through the collaboration of Tor Kenward’s vineyard expertise and Jeff Ames’ winemaking skill, TOR Wines consistently delivers wines of remarkable quality, depth, and site specificity. Their approach, driven by a commitment to craftsmanship and the celebration of Napa Valley’s world-class vineyards, ensures that each wine reflects a true sense of place, making TOR a symbol of excellence in Napa Valley.