New Clairvaux

The Abbey of New Clairvaux in Vina, California is home to a community of Cistercian or “Trappist” monks. Famous for making chocolate, cheese and beer, Cistercians are most noted for their winemaking beginning in the 12th century.

The Abbey itself sits upon one of California’s most historic winemaking properties. Wines have been made in Vina since 1846 and it was once home of “The Great Vina Ranch”, the largest winemaking venture in the world prior to prohibition.

In the year 2000, the brothers partnered with the Sunseri family who’s own winemaking legacy dates to 1890 in Napa Valley. Today, 5th generation winemaker Aimée Sunseri and the brothers create more than 20 wines and have won mare than 400 international wine awards for their efforts.