We are excited to share our first in a series of North Yuba Water District customer profiles that will  highlight a selection farmers and agriculture producers in NYWD’s 188 square mile rural service area, which includes Dobbins and Oregon House.  

First in our series is Gideon Beinstock and Saron Rice co-owners of Clos Saron, a vineyard located in Oregon House.

Clos Saron History

Beinstock started growing grapes in the1990s when he and Rice cared for a small vineyard in 1995. When a few years later, the owners decided to sell part of their property, the pair leapt at the opportunity and launched their business – Clos Saron. Clos Saron was born in 1999 out of their love for wine, the outdoors and wish to do something productive in their lives.

“Farming and living close to nature may be challenging in many ways, but equally life giving and inspiring,” Beinstock shared.

The pair began their journey with half an acre of grapes which eventually expanded to 6 acres after purchasing a nearby property and leasing land from a neighbor. Half of the grapes they grow are the varietal Pinot Noir, and the other half a mix of 12 different varieties.

Water Needs & Challenges

Managing and farming the vineyard has not been without its challenges. Beinstock learned early on new vines planted in this region needed intense watering for the first few years. Because of the intense heat experienced in our region, the soil didn’t hold moisture very and the new vines need to be watered daily.