About Us
Our Story Towards Longevity
In Latin, Vivacitas means longevity - our journey began in 2009 with the opening of a family owned We Olive retail store in downtown Walnut Creek, California. This included an Olive Bar plus Wine Bar, and for nine years we promoted a healthy California inspired lifestyle.
In 2015 Mike & Christine purchased 40 acres in South Monterey County; the property had only a drilled well, no electricity or irrigation and not a single tree existed. After many months of hard labor the terroir was transformed, and in 2017 Vivacitas Estate was born as we planted 1,100 olive trees and in 2019 over 3,400 grapevines; we need to mention this was intended to be a 'hobby' while both still working full-time jobs.
In late 2022, after three years of permitting and construction during Covid, Mike & Christine sold their house in Danville, CA and moved into a new Mediterranean style home, with their vineyard in full view each and every day.
Today their hobby and passion continues, each day a learning experience. Mike is a board member of IGGPRA (Independent Grape Growers of Paso Robles) along with a member of Wines & Steins.
Our Estate Grown Grapes
At Vivacitas Estate we grow a small variety of premium grapes. Over 4,000 vines across 5+ acres using a 6x9 spacing; the terroir is called “Lockwood Shaly Loam,” and consists of crushed fossilized seashells similar to chalk and limestone. Being in the San Antonio valley the temperatures can reach over 100 degrees at times, which is why the grapes we have planted do quite well. Our commitment to sustainable farming practices ensures that our grapes are of the highest quality.
In late 2021 a 2,400 sq ft metal barn / workshop was constructed with a fully insulated and chilled barrel room; two barn cats have taken up permanent residency and oversee wine operations.