In 1997, having moved back to my home town of Sonoma following college and various endeavors in real estate, I wanted to do something significant in the town I grew up in and loved. I suggested to my parents that we partner in the development of their 108 acre property in the renowned Mayacamas Mountain Range. I was convinced that the property was pedigree land.
Located adjacent to some world class vineyards and with an array of various soils, elevations, and sun exposures, I knew it was just waiting for vines to be planted. It was a prime location for grape growing and now has its own prestigious appellation ~ Moon Mountain District. The property took three long years to develop and from there my farming career and Ty Caton Vineyards was established.
Farming the vineyards quickly evolved into a passion for growing grapes which led to the inevitable: I wanted to make wine. . . Not just any wine, I wanted to make extraordinary wines! With the harvest of 2000, I made the first vintage, 500 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon. Although I continue to sell some grapes to select wineries, I now keep most of the fruit for my own production as the demand for the wines has increased dramatically.
The winery’s annual production is just under 10,000 cases with over 20 products, 11 being small production cabernet sauvignons (3-8 barrels) from each distinctive block on the property; so close in proximity, yet so different, as well as small blocks of Merlot, Syrah, Petite Sirah and Malbec. Planting these 5 varietals later enabled me to produce my flagship wine, Tytanium.
Tytanium, a play on my name, was inspired by my desire to make a wine of distinction that no one else could duplicate. This estate proprietary blend is always comprised of the best grapes I grow and is crafted to create a memorable wine of uncommon character. Tytanium’s inaugural vintage 2003, quickly stood out as my “flagship” wine garnering awards in wine publications and competitions. It’s been awarded “Best of Class” several times in the largest competition of American wines in the world. The 2008 vintage was honored as one of the top five wines of the year in The 27th Annual Quarterly Review of Wines “Best of the Best” Blind Tasting.
With my continued dedication to actively seeking excellence I expect Tytanium, my Cabernet Sauvignons, and my other wines to continue to earn prestigious honors for many years to come. Given our exceptional vineyard and winemaking dedication, I will never settle for anything less.
However to me, the most important judge of my wine is you. I truly hope that you, your friends and family enjoy my wines for many years to come.
