You’ve probably dined alongside this well known wine duo at your favorite Naples restaurant–and if you haven’t, you’ve definitely enjoyed a glass of their wine from a local wine list or while attending events around town. Their portfolio of varietals includes cabernet, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, dry rosé and their latest hit, a sparkling wine crafted to be served over ice.
What led to the start of Hailstone Vineyards?
Chris: I have a very complex career history that has included everything from working alongside a world-renowned private chef to founding a Texas-based storm restoration company. Through every endeavor, there has been a common thread of a love for food and wine. I fell in love with wine specifically after various visits to the Napa Valley region and even began blending my own to be used as client gifts for several companies. Friends would joke that I could never start my own wine business, so that’s exactly what I did!
What’s the origin of the name - Hailstone Vineyards?
Chris: In the storm restoration business, I was constantly “chasing” hail storms in concert with national insurance carriers. When I decided to embark on turning my passion for wine into the business it is today, it felt natural to pay homage to where this all began. Hailstone Vineyards was born and we haven’t looked back since!
What makes Hailstone Vineyards a boutique winery?
Jessica: We share our time between Naples and Yountville, which is located in the heart of Napa Valley. Our time there is focused on preparing new releases and perfecting existing vintages. We only produce about 1,000 cases of wine per year with our attention focused completely on quality. A lot of love and passion goes into every bottle and the attention to detail shows in every sip! We also love connecting with our community of customers in downtown Napa by hosting in our tasting room, The Vintner’s Collective, and meeting newcomers to the brand.
Where can we enjoy your wines?
Jessica: The best way to enjoy Hailstone at home is by shopping directly through our website. We offer quick shipping and can provide local drop-off or pick-up for Naples residents! Make sure to also look for us on your local wine list. We’re proud to have our wines featured at downtown staples like Del Mar, Campiellos, Continental, Le Colonial, Aqua, Sea Salt, Nosh on Naples Bay and more.
Chris: Our wine club is a great way to experience the best of Hailstone Vineyards, too. We offer a completely customizable wine club experience with flexible shipping and selections, so our club members are in complete control of how much or how little wine arrives at their door. You get incredible savings and an added bonus of Hailstone “swag” and complimentary tastings when visiting Napa Valley! I always recommend the wine club for those who are new to our wines.
What’s something you’re excited about for the brand right now?
Chris: We just released Hailstone ICE and we’re thrilled with the response. This is a sparkling white wine specifically crafted to be served over ice. We encourage getting creative with garnishes and enjoy seeing how people customize their glass when we serve at events and private parties. It’s a really unique concept that we’ve been working on for years–if you attend any of the City Lifestyle events you’ve probably had a glass (or two!).
Shop all Hailstone Vineyards wines online, HailstoneVineyards.com, or order from your local wine list.
Follow along on social media, @HailstoneVineyards.