Black Dog Ranch

Beresini Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley

As told by Molly, Chief Vineyard Dog

I may be the youngest member of the Beresini family team, but I carry a proud legacy—one rooted in tradition, stewardship, and a deep love for this land. I am Molly, Chief Vineyard Companion at Black Dog Ranch, and daughter of Corleone, who held the title before me. Together, we’ve walked every row, watched every season unfold, and stood by as these vines have grown into something remarkable.

Our vineyard spans 7 acres in the heart of Napa Valley’s Los Carneros region. Of those, 4.49 acres are dedicated to Chardonnay—grown with the care and expertise of Steve Beresini, whose decades of experience help preserve the purity and site-driven character of this unique terroir. The remaining blocks are planted to Pinot Noir, featuring the distinctive Pommard, Calera, and Swan clones, each adding depth and nuance to the voice of the land.

Since our first vintage in 2011, Black Dog Ranch – Beresini wines have reflected a commitment to sustainable farming and a belief that true expression begins in the vineyard—with intention, patience, and care.

Our philosophy is deeply influenced by André Tchelistcheff, who mentored my dad, Steve Beresini, during his time at Niebaum Coppola. It was André who believed that a wine’s soul is first revealed through aroma—a truth we carry forward today under our family’s guiding phrase: “The Nose Knows™.”

At Black Dog Ranch, every decision is made with care. The land is respected, the vines are tended by hand, and the wines are crafted to reflect their origin. This is more than a vineyard—it’s a living legacy. One I’m proud to walk each day, paw by vine.

Stewardship at Black Dog Ranch

“Do one thing every day to help the environment.”

From Molly, Chief Vineyard Dog:
Hi again, it’s me—Molly. Here at Black Dog Ranch, I’ve got a front-row seat (well, usually shotgun in the Kubota) to all the ways we try to care for our land. And let me tell you, we’re not just about making great wine—we’re about making good choices. Little ones, every single day. That’s how we protect this place we love.

Here are just a few things we do to stay green (and keep my paws proud):

*We’re installing solar near the vineyard—sunshine in, sustainability out.

*We use 100% recycled shipping boxes—and they’re reusable too. I’ve seen a few become excellent chew-proof storage bins!

*Our bottles are getting lighter—like our 2021 Chardonnay, which went into a Bordeaux bottle instead of the traditional Burgundy. It’s easier to ship, uses less glass, and yes—makes a pretty vase at your dinner party.

*We’ve planting drought-resistant perennials like lavender and salvia—low water, high wag.

Like Steve says—“We’re not here to push the land, we’re here to care for it.” That’s what real stewardship looks like.