The Blessing of the Grapes

New Clairvaux Monastery, Winery, Vineyard

Vina, CA  July 27, 2024

Darrell and I visited the the Abbey of Our Lady of New Clairvaux and the New Clairvaux winery and vineyard for their annual  "Blessing of the Grapes" celebration. New Clairvaux is located in Vina, CA about 2 hrs 15 min. north of Sacramento.

The property was once the largest vineyard in the world when it was in the hands of millionaire railroad baron and former California governor , Leland Stanford.

https://www.newclairvaux.org/

https://www.newclairvauxvineyard.com/

Here is an ABC Special Report which aired during the construction (reconstruction) of the New Clairvaux Abbey Church.

After taking a look at the Abbey Church, we walked over to the edge of the vineyards where a number of vendors were set up for their morning market.   

People began to sit in the semi-circle of chairs overlooking the vineyard. We heard the procession of monks singing as they made their way to the stage which was atop a vineyard cart.  Aimee Sunseri, the New Clairvaux wine maker welcomed everyone and began to give a very touching tribute to Darrell Corti for his many contributions to the Monastery and Winery. They presented Darrell with a "Key to the Wine Cellar" which is a very special honor!  It reads "Darrell Omnes aut gratias" ("All our thanks" in Latin)   Have a look...

After the tribute, Aimee introduced Fr. Paul Mark Schwan who gave the blessing of the grapes.

Following the blessing, Darrell walked the vineyard with Fr. Paul Mark and Fr. Thomas Davis and they they went to see the Monastery library and the new build in progress for the future housing of the monks.

The wine trade accolades received by the wines of New Clairvaux winery have been growing. Aimee makes exceptional wine, which we happily recommend.