In 1960, when Fred Schweiger’s parents, Tony and Theresa, purchased fifty-three acres (above the fog-line at 2,000 feet) in Spring Mountain, California, they inspired their young and ambitious son to buy an additional eight acres the following year. A decade later, the Schwiegers began the arduous clearing process. In 1981, they planted vines in the rich, volcanic soil, and grew chardonnay, merlot, and cabernet sauvignon.

Harvesting for the first time three years later, the Schweigers sold their fruit to several local vineyards (including ZD and Stag Leap Winery) and continued doing so until 1994, when Schweiger Vineyards became a bonded winery and the family began bottling wine under their own name. Fred (who owns the winery with his wife Sally) was joined by Andrew in 1999. Andrew became the family’s full-time winemaker, and 100 percent estate-grown fruit was used in Schweiger wines for the first time. This proved to be a recipe for swirling, sniffing, and sipping success.

Among their current eight wines, the mid-price range 45 YGB and 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon are standouts. Showing bright cherry wood on the nose, the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon ($48) boasts a ripe red plum and toasted almond medium body, with a dash of crushed black pepper and an enticing long finish. It would be a treat with blue-lined cheese, seared tuna steak, Portobello mushrooms, and juicy grilled sirloin.

Schweiger’s inky black 45 YGB ($45) is as fragrant as Grandma’s blueberry pie hot out of the oven, and just as tasty. This full-bodied blend of undisclosed red grapes is layered with baskets of velvety black plum, cherries, blueberries, and hazelnut nuances. A fantastic partner for fresh and dried figs, truffles, and roasted eggplant, it’s got the macho structure to stand up to hearty fare like stews, steaks, and stinky cheese. A portion of the proceeds from each bottle of 45 YGB goes to the Tug McGraw Foundation, established for raising funds and public awareness of brain cancer, and to support college students exemplifying extraordinary leadership and Tug’s inspiring “Ya Gotta Believe” spirit.