“It’s important to cherish the underdogs in life because more often than not, they are the ones destined for greatness when given the chance.
All it takes is patience and support.”
Phil & Beth Rielly
This amazing property has been an experience of discovery and learning. Up for the challenge, we began the new adventure of winemaking. We fell in love with the property that continues to unfold and deliver new possibilities. It’s always a journey to get here but there are always new things to explore and discover. Each season brings new life and beauty, from the views to the various terrains, no matter the weather, it’s cozy and feels like home. There is so much more the land and the community teach us, and we are grateful to be able to see what unfolds. While we work hard to be good stewards of this land, we appreciate a great sunset, great people and a great bottle of wine.
Haley Wight
Haley has been making wine since 2006, just one year after she fell in love with winemaking as a harvest intern in a rustic cellar on the top of Spring Mountain. She is a 6th generation Napan, her mother was raised on a cattle ranch in Yountville and her father was raised on his family’s Lewelling Ranch in St. Helena. Haley’s hands have always been in the soil, whether working as a backcountry ranger, a field geologist, a farm worker, or a winemaker, she has felt connected to the land. She is honored to continue her family’s farming legacy and strives to make balanced and beautiful wines for Aspire Estate as well.
Erik Dodd
Erik has been farming vineyards in the Napa Valley since 2005. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest with a background in hydrology and experience as a backcountry ranger with the National Park Service, he migrated south for an opportunity to work year-round in the vineyard and try his hand at the wine industry. Together with his wife, he also owns and operates a small wine company producing heritage California varietals and Cabernet Sauvignon. Erik’s common sense leadership skills and his affinity for the natural world have helped him find success as a vineyard manager.
Luis Robledo
Born in 1948 and the oldest of 10 kids, Luis Robledo traveled with his father to the US from Michoacan, Mexico in 1964 at only 16 years of age. He arrived in Calistoga in 1967.
In 1972 Luis helped in planting the first set of vineyards at the lower end of the property. He was hired on by the Hayes Family to maintain the 40 acres of vineyards.
Luis married his wife of over 52 years before settling in Calistoga, where they would go on to raise their 4 kids.
When asking Luis what this property means to him, his reply is, “Un gran parte de toda mi vida,” which means “A huge part of all of my life.”