Suisun Valley during geologic times was carved out by the Suisun Creek, the Gordon Creek and the Ledgewood Creek within the southern plunges of the Coast Range. Mankas Hills are situated between the Vaca Mountains on the east and George Range on the west.

Some 10.000 acres of vineyards are nested in the gravelly fan deposits of the Gordon, Ledgewood and Suisun creeks. From our vineyards one can enjoy a peaceful view of the Twin Sister Peaks to the west, the Blue Ridge to the north and a full view of Mount Diablo to the south.

Suisun Valley is well known for the quality of its fruit orchards. It was recognized as a viticultural region by early settlers in the 1800. In 1982 it obtained appellation status as an American Viticultural Area, just after Napa Valley.

The area enjoys a unique blend of generous day time sun and cool afternoon breezes out of the nearby San Pablo and Grizzly Bays. Fog hardly ever penetrates into Suisun Valley due to the protection from the Pacific Ocean by the George Range.

Upland soil, gravelly loam, characterizes the fan deposits of our Mankas Hills Vineyards. The soil deposited by the erosion of volcanic rocks in the west and cretaceous sandstones in the east is rich in minerals. Quick draining and warm is ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon. Sycamore silty clay loam and San Ysidro sand loam in the meanderings of the creeks are also ideal for Merlot, Gamay, Shiraz, and Sauvignon Blanc.

The unique combination of moderate daytime temperatures and cool nights creates a low speed ripening environment and provides the ideal climate for the growing of ultra-premium quality grapes.