D-Cubed Cellars

Winemaker/owner Duane David Dappen (hence D-Cubed) began his career as a Napa Valley winemaker with a 4-H project. Raised in an agricultural family, it is in his blood to work with products of the land. His first experience in winemaking came when he and a group of friends entered the El Dorado County Fair Home Winemaking Competition and received “Best in Show” for their blend of Chenin Blanc and Grenache.

Inspired by his brush with winemaking fame, Duane entered the Enology program at University of California, Davis. He spent years developing his craft and building an impressive resume at Grgich Hills, Storybook Mountain, Rombauer Vineyards and Frank Family Vineyards. D-Cubed got its start in 1994 when several tons of the super-esteemed Black Sears Zinfandel became available. To many Napa Valley winemakers, fruit from this location is considered Zinfandel Gold! D-Cubed is in good company sourcing Black Sears Zinfandel alongside world famous Ridge Vineyards and Turley Vineyards.

Korte Ranch Vineyard is one of the most iconic Zinfandel vineyards in Napa Valley. Gnarly old head pruned vines were originally planted in the late 1880’s with the youngest vines planted about 1910. The age of these vines combined with dry farming techniques, rocky soil and cool morning and nighttime temperatures produce grapes capable of making layered, complex wine.

Affiliations: Winemaker/owner Duane David Dappen is a board member for ZAP (Zinfandel Advocate & Producers).