After 12 years of crafting wines, Jason Charles has announced the closure of his Vinca Minor Winery. The 2024 vintage will be his last, marking the end of a notable era in the Bay Area wine industry. While the California wine sector faces challenges, Charles emphasized that his decision was based on personal aspirations rather than economic factors. He now seeks to return to his former passion—photography, a field he pursued before venturing into winemaking.
A Passion for Carignan and Old Vineyards
Vinca Minor gained recognition for its dedication to Carignan, a historically significant grape in California. Charles sourced fruit from old vineyards in Mendocino County’s Redwood Valley, drawn to their organic farming practices and rich heritage. Over the years, he produced various Carignan styles, including rosé and structured reds, showcasing the grape’s aging potential. His philosophy centered on preserving the essence of these older vines while experimenting with different winemaking techniques.
The winery underwent major transitions in recent years, particularly after the 2020 harvest, when wildfire smoke ruined many grape crops. Charles experimented with blending grapes and pears, launching an alternative brand, Moonland. Initially focused on hybrid wines, Moonland later transitioned to a line of canned wines. Additionally, Vinca Minor moved its production from West Berkeley to Sonoma, aiming for expansion. However, Charles’ growing desire to return to photography continued to influence his future decisions.
From Wine to Photography: A Return to Roots
Before entering the wine industry, Charles was a photojournalist in New York, working on commercial photography projects. His journey into wine began as a side job in hospitality, eventually leading him to Napa Valley’s Chateau Boswell and a winery in Bordeaux. In 2013, he launched Vinca Minor, blending his creative vision with winemaking. Despite his success in wine, his passion for photography remained, ultimately guiding him back to his original artistic pursuit.
Although Vinca Minor is shutting down, its wines will remain available for about 18 more months, with the final 2024 vintage still aging in barrels. The closure aligns with a broader trend in California, where several wineries, including Carlisle Winery and Tarpon Cellars, have also ceased operations. However, Charles insists his decision is deeply personal, reflecting a desire to reconnect with his younger self and pursue a lifelong dream in photography once again.