John and Denise Graves, Owners
Gazing over the magnificent Bennett Mountain Vineyard, for John and Denise, it was love at first sight. In 2015, they acquired the former winery and sheep farm, driven to revive its innate beauty. While partner, Cabell Coursey focused on vines and wines, they hired renowned architect Charles Stinson to seamlessly blend three buildings into the landscape. The Winery & Barn debuted in 2017, followed by the Hilltop House in 2022. A guy who loves to play with tools, John handcrafted the pond’s iconic bridge and ornamental boat. He is behind preserving our cherished oaks and planting the vibrant olive trees along the drive. Say hello when you spot John, sporting his signature baseball cap and work gloves, dashing around the estate!
John and Denise’s three children and five grandchildren frequently gather at the Hilltop House for family fun (and the latest Coursey Graves wine). With strong ties to Minnesota, they’ve committed the majority of their wealth to a family foundation led by son Bill, focused on improving the lives of disadvantaged youth.
Cabell Coursey, Winemaker
Cabell’s career started in Burgundy, France picking grapes during a semester abroad. After graduation, he returned to Burgundy to work in vineyards throughout Cote de Nuits. Cabell had the privilege to work some of the very last vintages under Jacky Truchot and Henri Jayer.
Cabell attended Lincoln University in New Zealand, earning graduate degrees in Enology and Viticulture. Cabell’s passion for cool climate viticulture and methodical winemaking led to winemaking positions at acclaimed wineries across AVAs in both Napa and Sonoma.Â
Cabell approaches winemaking with an intention to preserve freshness and a concept of purity and age-ability. The result is a wine deeply tied to both a moment in time and place.
