In 1979, printer Burt Williams and salesman Ed Selyem began making wine from a garage on their weekends. Carefully sourcing fruit (from vineyards that would go on to be revered as among California’s finest) and harnessing (even then) old fashioned production methods, they caught the attention of Burgundy lovers with their sappy and intensely fragrant Pinot Noirs. Williams Selyem became a model for US winemaking and distribution, generating such a cult following that there was a waiting list to get on the mailing list – all without PR, a signpost to the winery, or even a tasting room.
