Samuel Louis Smith Wines
Samuel Louis Smith Wines have been on our radar long before Rincon Wine Group officially began — we’ve simply been fans for a long time. Based in Santa Cruz, Sam focuses on the coolest corners of the Central Coast, with a deep emphasis on the AVAs surrounding Monterey Bay. He works closely with small growers farming organically at a minimum, often at elevation, in rugged sites shaped by coastal influence and redwood forests.
While Santa Cruz and Monterey are home base, Sam also explores other compelling vineyards in the Central Coast — Rhône and Burgundian varietals in the Gabilan Mountains, along with Chardonnay from Spear Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills. The wines are refined, vibrant, and lower in alcohol, offering clarity and geological character.
Produced in true micro-négoce fashion at around 1,500 cases annually, these are thoughtful, site-driven wines made with a light hand and a lot of intention. Even the labels — original watercolor paintings by Sam himself — reflect the care, humility, and personality behind the work.
