Our Story

The Spotted Owl Vineyards story began years ago on a warm Napa Valley summer evening. While enjoying dinner with friends in his vineyard high on Mt. Veeder overlooking the Valley floor, Mikhail was astonished to see a rare spotted owl fluttering in the moonlit sky. As the tiny owl swooped down from the surrounding forest He became mesmerized watching how the owl survey the vineyard then perching itself on a nearby vine as though he was a dinner guest joining them with his meal. Overtime the spotted owl became a fixture among the serene vineyard, guarding the vines that have come to be known as Spotted Owl Vineyards. Since becoming a member of the “Vineyard Family” he is affectionately referred to as "Chuck" the vineyard caretaker.

Mikhail Gishizky is a wine grower who sold the prized fruit grown in the legendary appellation of Mt. Veeder for many years. In 2004, Mikhail decided to create a special wine, "Alexandria's Cuvee", to celebrate the birth of his daughter. This wine was extraordinary, receiving high praise and being called "Sensational" by Wine Spectator. This response confirmed what Mikhail had thought about the fruit grown on his unique vineyards and convinced him to create a “Daughter-Dad” enterprise that would continue the family passion and provide an opportunity for his daughter to experience how nature, science, and business come together to make a positive impact in this world.

At Spotted Owl Vineyards we are dedicated to crafting world class wines that respect our environment, support our community and help our patrons enjoy the wonderful gifts that nature has to offer.

Thank you for your interest and support

Alexandria & Mikhail Gishizky