Our Story

Blackbird Vineyards was founded with a simple yet powerful idea: to create timeless, artfully blended wines rooted in Bordeaux tradition and elevated by Napa Valley’s expressive terroir. Our name, and our philosophy, pays homage to Merlot, the noble varietal at the heart of our story.

At The Heart of Blackbird

The name Merlot comes from the Occitan word ‘merlau,’ meaning ‘little blackbird’—a nod to both the grape’s deep color and the shape of its leaves, said to resemble a blackbird’s feathers. This poetic origin reflects the soul of Blackbird Vineyards: a deep appreciation for nuance, nature, and the beautiful intersections of history, artistry, and agriculture.

Founded in 2003 in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley, Blackbird Vineyards began as a small Merlot-focused vineyard. Over the years, our scope and ambition have grown—but our commitment to thoughtful, small-lot winemaking remains unchanged. Today, under the visionary direction of our owners, Julia and John Hinshaw, Blackbird Vineyards crafts Bordeaux-inspired blends that embody elegance, structure, and lasting character.

Blackbird’s migration

1996

The Blackbird Vineyard was founded by three retirees – Mr. Hastings, Mr. Jenkins, and Mr. Dean – drawn to the romance and potential of Napa in the mid-90s. The land was planted with walnut trees and quickly replaced with premium Merlot and Cabernet Franc. They began selling fruit to Duckhorn, Harlan Estate, and Dalla Valle.

2002

The vineyard changed hands and Blackbird Vineyards began its next chapter, this time with a small ownership group focused on producing estate-grown wine.

2007

Sarah Gott departs and winemaker Aaron Pott joins, further refining Blackbird’s signature style and deepening its connection to Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

2008

Ma(i)sonry Napa Valley opens its doors in Yountville — a design-forward tasting salon that brings Blackbird wines into an artistic, elevated setting.

2009

Ground breaks on the Blackbird Vineyards winery, marking a new era of in-house production and creative control.

2014

At a St. Helena Winery dinner, John and Julia Hinshaw meet Aaron Pott and are inspired to invest in the future of Blackbird Vineyards.

2017

The Hinshaws deepen their Napa roots with the purchase of The Bird’s Nest — a 160-acre estate perched above Pritchard Hill.

2019

John and Julia Hinshaw become majority owners of Blackbird Vineyards. That same year, the first vintage under their stewardship is produced at the Blackbird Vineyards Winery — signaling a new chapter of growth, precision, and place.