Cline

Cline Cellars – Sonoma, California

California crowd-pleasers with Rhône flair: innovation, value, and consistently high critical recognition.

Overview

Cline Family Cellars was founded in 1982 by Fred Cline and his wife Nancy, initially working with historic vineyards in Contra Costa County before relocating to the Carneros region of Sonoma. Built on a strong family ethos, the winery remains family-owned, with the next generation actively involved in the business, continuing Fred’s pioneering work as one of California’s original Rhône Rangers.
The estate farms a range of vineyard sites including ancient vines planted on sandy soils resistant to phylloxera, as well as cooler Carneros vineyards influenced by marine breezes. Farming is rooted in sustainability, using cover crops, composting and natural weed control to maintain soil health. Winemaking, led by Tom Gendall, focuses on minimal intervention and varietal expression, producing wines that balance richness with structure and authenticity.

The Wines

Viognier & Rhône varietals
Fruit-forward, aromatic whites and structured Rhône reds. 

Pinot Noir
Approachable Sonoma Coast Pinot with strong value positioning. 

Zinfandel
Old-vine and ancient-vine styles delivering concentration and spice. 

Why Cline

  • Strong California value with a proven on-trade track record
  • Rhône varietal expertise + crowd-pleasing reds
  • Critic-recognised portfolio at accessible price points
  • Easy by-the-glass and retail “go-to” selections

Wines available

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