Hailing from the fourth generation of the iconic Mondavi family, Carlo and Dante Mondavi have stepped out of their family’s shadow to create their own legacy in California’s Sonoma Coast. Inspired by centuries-old Burgundian monastic winemaking techniques, the brothers focus on minimal intervention, 100% whole-cluster fermentation, and a deep respect for nature to produce some of California’s most refined Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Innovative Winemaking: A Tribute to Nature
RAEN Winery, founded by Carlo and Dante in 2013, is a testament to their passion for crafting wines that reflect the land's true essence. The name RAEN stands for Research Agriculture Enology Naturally, emphasizing their commitment to natural winemaking practices. Their approach includes harvesting grapes only at night to preserve freshness and meticulously documenting each bottle with the harvest time and lunar phase (such as waxing moon or full moon) for future reference.
Terroir-Driven Wines from Sonoma Coast
RAEN’s vineyards are located in Sonoma’s Freestone Occidental and the emerging Fort Ross-Seaview sub-region. The soils here are a unique blend of ancient seabed Goldridge sandy loam, clay, and volcanic rock, with balanced pH levels ideal for whole-cluster fermentation. This method, rarely used in California, contributes to the wines’ delicate rose petal and tea-like aromas, creating a balanced and nuanced palate.
