About Us
The Dierberg family began cultivating Drum Canyon Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills appellation of Santa Barbara in 2008. Second generation growers and siblings Ellen Dierberg Milne and Michael Dierberg have focused on a sustainable approach to producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Drum Canyon, making Dierberg one of a select group of California Certified Sustainable vineyards. Winemaker Tyler Thomas apprenticed with Aubert de Villaine of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti fame and brings a minimalist approach to crafting exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that fully express this special vineyard site.
Tyler Thomas, Winemaker
Like the Dierbergs, Tyler hails from Missouri. A plant physiologist and winemaker by education and training, Tyler also has French roots and says that he loves the idea that there is no specific word for “winemaker” in French. Before joining Dierberg Vineyard in 2013, Tyler apprenticed with Aubert de Villaine of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti fame at the Hyde de Villaine winery in Napa. “Aubert taught me to stay out of the way in winemaking,” says Tyler. Indeed, “staying out of the way” has garnered Dierberg attention as amongst the highest quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in California.
