After Bill Greenough acquired Rancho Saucelito in 1974, he was faced with the arduous task of reviving three acres of abandoned Zinfandel vines planted in 1880. The roots of the century-old vineyard were still going strong without care or irrigation, but the vines were wild and choked with overgrowth. Clearing the land and retraining the vines was no easy task. Slowly but surely, however, Bill restored the old vineyard to its original head-pruned glory.

After Bill began making wine from the original vineyard as well as newer blocks he had planted, he noticed that the old-vine lots were different, with their own unique intensity of flavor and character. Over the years, friends encouraged Bill to bottle a wine made solely from these dry-farmed old vines. With the intent of keeping things simple, he never did—until the vintage of 2006. This vintage marked the 25th anniversary of Bill and Nancy’s commercial winemaking at Saucelito Canyon.

Made in limited quantities exclusively from the old vines at Saucelito Canyon, the 1880 Zinfandel is the crown jewel of our winery. This wine showcases the mature flavors, natural layered complexity and remarkable character that are inherent to these historic vines.

Due to its small production and high demand, the 1880 Zinfandel is offered first to our Club SCV members who opt to purchase it, with limited quantities also available in our tasting room. Please visit our Join The Club page for more information on the benefits of joining Club SCV.