Paravel Wines

Paravel, named after the castle in the imaginary world of Narnia in C.S. Lewis’ famous books, was conceived as a way for Jon to showcase his passion for Petite Sirah.

The name reminds us to keep our imaginations running wild,

even as our feet stay firmly planted on the ground.

The Captain:

His college degree was in Music, but Jon often says that his way of winemaking takes music theory specifically into account: harmony, balance, the right mix of top notes sliding along on a steady rhythm. Of course there's a tight horn section and a strong bass groove. Can you dig it?

Jon's journey to becoming a winemaker started on a little side trip to the Napa Valley during his college days. A memorable night with friends began raiding a wine cellar and ended swigging a choice vintage of Opus One straight from the bottle. The bar was set, his passion was realized, and now with 23 years of wine work under his belt, his winemaking style is well-developed.

Jon cut his teeth in enology at a few big wineries (Robert Mondavi, Merryvale, Opus One), then moved from the lab to the cellar making wine at a few smaller wineries (Adobe Road and Lava Vine). Jon now works as a Associate Winemaker for Olabisi, Spence, and Phifer Pavitt Winery.

In 2011, Jon began crafting Paravel’s first vintage of 100% vineyard-designate Howell Mountain Petite Sirah from Henry Brothers Ranch.