Fess Parker

Our Family

When Fess Parker was cast in the roll of Davy Crockett in the mid-1950’s, it caused an international sensation and changed his life forever. So too did the purchase of 714 acres in the Santa Ynez Valley change the course of the Parker family’s history.

Realizing the potential of Santa Barbara County as a premium grape-growing region, Fess and his son, Eli, originally set out in 1989 to plant a small vineyard and sell fruit to local producers. But, as Fess’ daughter, Ashley explains, “ Fess is from Texas, so he can’t do anything small. “The Fess Parker Winery and Vineyard now farms almost 700 acres on four vineyards throughout Santa Barbara County. 

Rodneys Vineyard
The estate vineyard, named in honor of Fess’s late son-in-law, was the first vineyard developed, and it surrounds the winery. With a total of 118 acres planted — approximately 31 acres on the valley floor, and the balance on the expansive upper mesa behind the winery — this vineyard provides the foundation of our Rhone wine program and has already produced several award winning Syrah and Viognier bottlings.

Fess Parker Ranch ( Camp 4)
Our newest acquisition, this 1,400 acre parcel of land was purchased in the spring of 1999. The initial 250 acre block was completed and produced its first crop in harvest 2003. Located slightly Southwest from the winery in the Santa Ynez Valley, the warmer climates and loam soils of this site shows great potential for producing fully ripened, mature fruit.

2008 San Francisco International Wineshow Competition Blair Fox named Andre Tchelistcheff Winemaker of the Year.

Wine range includes – Pinot Noir , Syrah , Rhone blends , Chardonnay, Viognier & Riesling