While not the most common start, our story begins with a murder – of crows. When the first vines were planted on our land, straw was used to show where the buds should go. While a useful marker, straw is also a crow’s favorite find. When lunchtime rolled around, and the family took a well-deserved break, they were yet to realize they had been eagerly watched the whole time. Unexpectedly and all at once, a murder of

crows swooped into the fledgling vineyard. The crows seemingly danced around the straw in an orchestrated flurry of black-winged movement and squawks. While the onlookers laughed in surprise, when they looked again, the crows and the straws were gone! The family learned two things that day: never underestimate a dancing crow and what to name their vineyard.

Dancing Crow founder Tony Cartlidge decided to make wine in Lake County in 2006. With over 30 years of winemaking to his name, Tony first discovered Lake County when he made a single vineyard Sauvignon Blanc from the region that year. Back then, there were only a handful of wineries in the area – but Tony had a keen eye for potential. His vision proved fruitful. The wine was so well-received that Tony decided to investigate further. Together with his wife, Sarah Forni, and sons Adam Forni and Stefan Cartlidge, Dancing Crow was founded in 2013.

At the start, the family only produced one wine: a fresh, aromatic Sauvignon Blanc that remains the flagship. Yet, thanks to Lake County’s propensity to create bright, concentrated red wine, Dancing Crow now works with 30 sustainably grown varieties from top Lake County appellations.

Under the guidance of rising star winemaker Scott Kirkpatrick, our winemaking approach is less is more to achieve the best reflection of the terroir. We also intend to seek out burgeoning wine areas deserving of recognition and attention. That’s exactly why we have decided to make our home base in Mendocino County. Not only does this help us invite people to discover a new region, but it also serves as the gateway to other parts of the area.

Newcomers can get a taste of Lake County by starting with our foundational Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The Dancing Crow range also offers a Chardonnay and Rhône-style blend called Corbeau Rusé (meaning mischievous crow).

Our collection is rounded off with a site-specific field blend called Old Stake 1901. This Old World-style Field Blend comprises over 24 Californian heritage grape varieties that are 120 years old and co-fermented to create an exceptional wine.