The El Molino vineyard, home to Lion's Pride Pinot Noir, was planted on a previously unused acre of land adjacent to the athletic field. Major industry suppliers donated the vines, tressling materials, irrigation system and soil amendments.

Russian River Valley winegrowers worked with the students on the planning and layout and mentored them through the soil preparation, planting and all cultural activities, including training the vines, pruning, weed control and harvest.

How the program works
The winegrowers work side-by-side with the students--training the vines, pruning, weed control and harvest.

After harvest the grapes are transported to a Russian River Valley winemaker, who then turns them into the world-class Lion's Pride Pinot Noir. All labor and materials, including fermentation tanks, oak barrels, labels, corks and packaging are donated.

The striking label design? The creation of an El Molino student. So, through this program, the students learn, work, grow and eventually take ownership of this exciting, unique and constantly evolving process.

Everybody benefits
El Molino students receive vocational training and school training for their efforts, you enjoy premium quality wine at a fraction of the retail cost, and know that the money you spend goes directly to the El Molino Ag program, providing funds for such resources as:

• 15-passenger van for Ag Program field trips
• livestock/ equipment trailer
• a variety of small tools and vineyard equipment

The hope is to apply future wine sales to creating college scholarships and other training opportunities.