About Us

“We are a small family business focusing on farming the best grapes in Napa Valley. Our family is involved in the entire process from vine to bottle. Having our hands in the day to day is what makes us unique. We are passionate about this industry and this is what drives us to make exceptional wines for you to experience.” –William Ballentine William  Ballentine

Our Family

Jane and William Ballentine both have their own winemaking heritage in the Napa Valley from a young age. Friends throughout grade school who later became a family building their own winery while raising their two kids Cole and Claire.

Our Estate

Engrossed in rich history, William Cole Vineyards dates back to the late nineteenth century. William and Jane Ballentine acquired this stunning property in 1999.

Winemaking

“One of my proudest moments has been hearing my kids talk about our wines—especially the older vintages. Watching them taste and describe the wines with such understanding and appreciation is an incredible feeling. A long time ago, a famous winemaker asked me what my philosophy on winemaking is and I said, ‘I make wine for my grandkids.’ To see my own children now involved in the process, recognizing my life’s work, brings it all full circle. There’s probably no other product you can create that holds so much meaning across generations and having my kids value that is one of the greatest rewards.”

– William Ballentine

Our Vineyards

Farming is the heart and soul of what we do at William Cole Vineyards. William Ballentine learned farming techniques from his father and grandfather. Practically growing up on a tractor, he was never afraid of getting his hands dirty. William regularly maintains our vineyards and thoroughly enjoys it. As he always says “wine is made in the vineyard.”