Wine industry icon Richard Arrowood has announced his decision to leave his long-time position as winemaster at Arrowood Vineyards & Winery to make a full-time commitment to his newest venture, Amapola Creek.

     Founded in 2007 with wife Alis Demers Arrowood, Amapola Creek is a tiny, ultra-premium winery that focuses on organically farmed, estate-grown, small-lot Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Zinfandel from the Sonoma Valley. 
 
     As Arrowood prepares to enter his 45th harvest he notes, "The decision to leave Arrowood Vineyards & Winery is a philosophical choice. At Amapola Creek, I can use the winemaking techniques I developed that contributed to the success of Arrowood, yet on a much smaller scale. I still strongly believe in quality without compromise, and prefer to make just a few fine gems."
 
     It's the logical next step in a legendary winemaking career, and the vision at Amapola Creek is clear: a commitment to sustainable practices, small production, brand individuality and, above all, excellence.  At Amapola Creek, Arrowood can uphold the winemaking style and standards that he is accustomed to.
 
     Alis Arrowood adds, "At Amapola Creek, Richard has 20 acres of remarkable vineyards from our own estate and access to the coveted fruit from our neighbor's famed Monte Rosso Vineyard, from which to craft the best wines of his career.

     "He has always said he will continue to do this as long as he is having fun, and at Amapola Creek, he is having fun."