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Writing the Next Chapter of American Grape Culture
While California built its reputation on European grape varieties, North America has its own rich viticultural heritage. These native and hybrid grapes have been overlooked and underestimated. But when grown thoughtfully in exceptional terroir and crafted with care, they produce wines of remarkable character and complexity.
“Matt Niess has been rolling the non-vinifera boulder up the proverbial hill in Northern California (where valuable land is mainly used to grow European “noble” varieties) on his own for a few years now with North American Press. Along the way he’s been a part of preserving and reintroducing native and hybrid grapes more suitable to the climate—and often can be grown without pesticides or excessive water.”
— Wine Enthusiast’s Future 40 Tastemakers 2024
After nearly a decade crafting Burgundian-style wines at Radio-Coteau, I launched North American Press in 2019 to explore these overlooked varieties. Drawing on my background in both professional cooking and structural engineering, I bring precision and creativity to North America’s resilient grapes.
By championing indigenous varieties and hybrids, we’re not just making wine—we’re rediscovering America’s viticultural heritage.
— Matt Niess, Winemaker