The Old Silversmith

The Old Silversmith

Silversmith Vineyards continues a tradition of craftsmanship that began in 1848, when our ancestor, Patrick Cunningham, arrived in America.

Then just fourteen years old, Patrick left the family farm in Sligo, Ireland for a better future. Upon arrival in Boston, he took a job as an apprentice silversmith. After many years spent mastering his craft, Patrick moved west.

In San Francisco, Patrick resumed his craft until he was able to save enough money to buy a farm on the Russian River in the wilds of Mendocino County. In 1873, Patrick and his family moved onto the new farm on the outskirts of what was then a small settlement called Ukiah.

The first member of our family to farm in Mendocino County, Patrick raised hay, hops and nine children. He taught his children to farm with the same values he'd been taught at the engraver's bench - to love your work and take pride in the results.

For five generations this tradition of craftsmanship has been passed down through our family. Silversmith Vineyards was founded in 1998 on a piece of land not far from Patrick's original farm.

We dedicate our wines to the Old Silversmith. We are priviledged to pass the fruits of our labor on to you.