Visiting Indian Peak Vineyards

One of the greatest things about Harvest Hosts is the diverse nature of all the businesses that have joined the program. As of yet, 6,000 vineyards, breweries, farms and more have opened their businesses to members of the Harvest Hosts RV community for overnight accommodations with no camping fees. In return, members make a small purchase to support the business, while also being provided with a comfortable and beautiful place to spend the night. Of these hosts, Indian Peak Vineyards in Manton, California, is particularly special. Read on to learn all about this host, its history, its origins within the Harvest Hosts program, and what you can expect if you stay there overnight.

The History

Fred and Donna Boots conceived the idea for Indian Peak Vineyards in 1998. They were both in their 40s, and they were discussing what they wanted to do for their retirement. Fred had been a wine enthusiast for all of his life. They also both lived in Napa in the 1970s, before it became so commercialized. At the time, Fred had a small hobby vineyard and was making homemade wine. His homemade Merlot had just won best of show in the amateur class at their county fair. All of these previous events convinced Fred to turn his hobby and passion into a retirement project. This led to the purchase of their property in rural California and the eventual creation of Indian Peak Vineyards.

The Business Today

Today, Indian Peak Vineyards is a small family owned and operated vineyard and winery in the little mountain community of Manton in Northern California. Their property is less than an hour from Lassen Volcanic National Park. They are located in the “Manton Valley AVA” (wine region), and their typical wine production is 1500 cases per year.  Their specialties are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a red blend we call “Take Five” consisting of: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec.The property itself sits at 2200ft elevation, and it has red volcanic soil, with a vineyard that slopes to the west. Typical daytime temperatures during the summer average 100 degrees. However, as soon as the sun sets, cool air rushes down from nearby Mt Lassen, cooling the air down to an average of 55-60 degrees in the morning.  As a result, these 40 degree daily temperature swings allow their varietals to develop wonderful and intense flavor.