Vista, CA. — A boutique vineyard nestled in the hills of Vista is celebrating an exceptional year after its estate-grown Sangiovese received Double Gold at the Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition and Best in Class – Sangiovese at the San Diego County Fair Wine Competition.
Owned by Vista resident Drew Martin, 3-Oaks Vineyard was established in 2019 with 177 Sangiovese vines. The award-winning wines were crafted by Dennis Hansen, whose winemaking highlights the character of the vineyard’s estate-grown fruit.
The recognition comes just six years after the vineyard’s first planting, an impressive achievement for a young boutique vineyard competing alongside established California wineries.
“These awards are the culmination of years spent learning the vineyard,” Martin said. “Every season presents new challenges, and every harvest teaches you something. It’s gratifying to see that work recognized.”
Located in North San Diego County, 3-Oaks Vineyard is managed by Martin, who performs much of the pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and harvest himself. The vineyard has gradually matured into a producer of premium Sangiovese despite the challenges of heavy clay soils and a demanding coastal climate.
In addition to operating the vineyard, Martin is completing Charlie: A Moment in Time, a historical family memoir scheduled for publication later this year. While separate endeavors, both the vineyard and the book reflect a shared appreciation for craftsmanship, heritage, and creating something meaningful to pass on to future generations.
