Rugged Individualism
In 1846, former Army Captain John G. Ray moved West to the rough-and-tumble frontier of Northern California. He settled with his family first in the town of Sonoma, where he took part in the Bear Flag Revolt. Ray's old residence still stands to this day as a historical site in downtown Sonoma.
Hard-working and self-reliant, Ray struck it rich in the Gold Rush. He gathered his family and their earnings – literally pickle jars full of gold dust – and ventured bravely to the rugged mountains of present day Alexander Valley.
In 1859, John G. Ray opened Ray's Station along the stagecoach route to the geysers of Northern Sonoma County. Parched travelers and their weary horses would stop at Ray's Station before completing the treacherous passage over Hog's Back Ridge to the geysers. Libations flowed, the food was filling, and the accommodations – rustic at best.
The second man to plant vineyards in Alexander Valley, John G. Ray became a local legend for his rustic yet warm hospitality.
Ray's Station wines are a tribute to the intrepid, pioneer spirit of John G. Ray and his unique brand of rugged individualism.