Rheem Valley Vineyard, owned by long-time Moraga residents, Carol and Larry Haag, was planted in May 2007, with some 450 Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah vines. Named for scenic corridor, Rheem Valley, Rheem Valley Vineyard is located on flat and steep terrain in the heart of Rheem Valley Manor. The vineyard, which was inspired to plant by fellow LWGA founding member, Joao Magalhaes, began as a landscaping project to fill-in some of the steep-sloped hill and to provide a backdrop view of the scenic hills of Rheem Valley.
The first harvest in 2009 was decimated by raccoons, including an industrious family of five, who not only enjoyed the grapes, but lounged in the pool late evenings when everyone was asleep. Subsequent harvests proved more hardy and fruitful. The 2011 and 2012 wines have been bottled and deemed “quite good” by fellow LWGA members, family and friends.
Rheem Valley Vineyard is managed by Corona Vineyard Management, which also planted the vineyard, and the wine is skillfully produced by winemaker and fellow LWGA member, Bill Scanlin. The Haags joined LWGA in 2008 and Carol has served on the LWGA Board since 2009 in various capacities. Membership in LWGA has taken the vineyard from a landscaping project to a rewarding dimension in which to meet new friends, exchange information and socialize with people who share the same respect and love of wine. The advent of the Lamorinda AVA will take LWGA to new heights and opportunities within the wine community.
