Our History
The story of Robert Young begins with family, and their deeply rooted connection to the land. Since 1858, six generations of the Youngs have lived and farmed this ranch in Alexander Valley. This is more than a family business, it is a way of life. One which will be passed down for generations to come. The story continues…
1852
Voyage to Sonoma
At age 26, Peter Young made his way to Sonoma County from New York, eyeing the California Gold Rush and eventually purchasing a ranch in Alexander Valley in 1858.
1896
Prominent Community Leaders
From local church, school boards and service organizations to state agricultural leadership, the Youngs are renowned for their community involvement.
1912
Harvest
Silas and his neighbor harvesting prunes, a highly prized fruit in the early part of the century.
1914
Silas Carries On
Peter dies in 1914 and his son Silas inherits the 210-acre prune ranch.
1920
Growing up young
Silas and Florence raise Robert and his sister Marion on the ranch.
1935
Saved From Foreclosure
Silas dies. Sixteen-year old Robert inherits the ranch and its debt. Great Uncle Thomas Meek guarantees the bank note, allowing Robert to maintain ownership.
1937
Local Graduate
Robert graduates from Healdsburg High School with aspirations of becoming a “Big Farmer” (yearbook quote).
1940
Marries Highschool Sweetheart
Robert marries Gertrude Rotlisberger who will be known for her hospitality, generosity, and green thumb.
1942
Down to Earth
Robert exemplifies, “Take care of the land and the land will take care of you.”
1962
The Youngs
Gertrude and Robert taught their children the values of hard work. JoAnn, Susan, Fred, Jim and dog Gigi with Gertrude and Robert.
1963
Vineyard Pioneer
The first to plant Cabernet Sauvignon in Alexander Valley, as well as propagate the now-famous Chardonnay Clone 17, Robert Young emerges as a leader in the California wine industry.
1975
National Recognition
Robert Young Vineyards gained national acclaim when Chateau St. Jean released the Robert Young Vineyard Designated Chardonnay. Recognized by winemaker Dick Arrowood for its exceptional fruit, it became the first Vineyard Designated wine released in the United States and was featured in top restaurants nationwide.
1985
Clone 17 Legacy
Robert and his son Jim partnered with University of California, Davis to propagate the now-famous Clone 17 Chardonnay grape. Highly sought after by premium wineries, the vineyard grew to 317 planted acres, becoming one of the largest family-owned growers in Alexander Valley.
1997
Estate Winery Established
In 1997, Fred Young founded the Robert Young Estate Winery with the blessing of his father and the help of his siblings JoAnn, Susan and Jim. The four Scions live and work on the ranch, involving the next generations in the family business.
1997
First Scion Release
The inaugural vintage of Scion Cabernet Sauvignon is released, marking the beginning of Robert Young Estate Winery’s flagship wine program and a new chapter for the family’s Alexander Valley legacy.
1999
First Chardonnay Release
Robert Young Estate Winery releases its first Chardonnay, showcasing the estate’s commitment to producing world-class wines beyond Cabernet Sauvignon and highlighting the exceptional quality of the family’s vineyard holdings.
2009
Honoring a Pioneer
Robert Young passed away at age 90, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer in California’s premium grape industry. More than 1,000 people attended his funeral in honor of his leadership, generosity, and dedication to the community.
2018
The Scion House Opens
The family opens their new hospitality venue overlooking Alexander Valley, created to share the Young family’s way of life and vineyard views with guests from around the world.
2025
167 Years of Continuous Farming
The Family is Recognized by the Sonoma County Farm Bureau for 167 years of continuous farming
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