This summer, New Clairvaux Vineyard invites the public to step into a rich tradition of faith, history, and winemaking at the 19th Annual Blessing of the Grapes. This year’s celebration is especially meaningful as it marks 25 years since the first experimental vineyards were planted, their St. James and Poor Souls blocks.

A quarter-century ago, the monks of New Clairvaux, alongside the Sunseri winemaking family, planted the first vines in Vina (Vy-na), reviving the land once farmed by California wine pioneer Peter Lassen. In 2005, the doors to the New Clairvaux tasting room opened on a scorching summer day, welcoming over 2,000 enthusiastic guests—far beyond expectations. By the end of the day, the team had sold out of their first white wine, the 2004 St. James Block Albarino, a testament to the excitement surrounding this sacred and historic land’s return to winemaking. Just a few years later, New Clairvaux made a name for itself by winning its first gold medal with the 2007 Poor Souls Block Trebbiano at the 2008 San Diego International Wine Competition.

This year’s Blessing of the Grapes will take place at St. James Vineyard Block at the Abbey of New Clairvaux. The event opens at 9:00 AM with a Monk Market, featuring local vendors, followed by the ceremony at 10:30 AM, led by Abbot Father Paul Mark Schwan, O.C.S.O. (or just OCSO aka Order of Cistercians of Strict Observance).

Afterward, guests can enjoy a property-wide wine tasting experience. For a small fee, you can purchase a commemorative wine glass and sample a variety of wines that reflect the vineyard’s deep roots. Food vendors will also be on-site, serving up delicious eats.

All are welcome to join in this celebration of history, community, and the enduring spirit of winemaking.