Meet Pete Richmond, Founder of Silverado Farming Company

Napa Valley Inside Out

In this week’s episode of “Napa Valley Inside Out” I sit down with Pete Richmond, Founder of progressive farming company - Silverado Farming. Pete specializes in farming small premium vineyards for high end estate wineries for the likes of Lail Vineyards, Philippe Melka, Opus One, Vineyard 29, Dana Estates, Stags Leap Wine Cellars and Paul Hobbs to name a few. An enlightening conversation about farming practices in the hillsides versus the valley floor, hand farming versus tractor farming, the variations in farming costs depending on the site, the grape varietal, technique, spacing, labor costs and the winemakers goals. We talk about the complexities and costs of planting a new vineyard and the endless hoops you have to jump through to get approvals. If you’re thinking about getting into the wine business or owning your own vineyard, you will be amazed at the behind the scenes efforts and the responsibility that farmers have to deliver on the winemakers brief. Pete is a shining example of an exemplary employer and philanthropist that makes working and living in this valley a privilege.