About Terra Dorada and Esteemed Wine Grower, Andrew Kerr
Terra Dorada Vineyards and Dorval Estate Winery represent a new expression of California’s Central Valley—one defined by precision viticulture, regenerative farming, and a relentless focus on site. Rooted in decomposed granite soils and shaped by elevation, slope, and microclimate, the estates are dedicated to proving the region’s potential for world-class Bordeaux and Mediterranean varietals.
​
The vineyards are meticulously designed, with clonal selection, rootstock matching, and row orientation tailored to each parcel. Every decision is made with the belief that great wines are built in the vineyard first, allowing terroir to speak with clarity and restraint.
​
Founded by winemaker and viticulturist Andrew Kerr, whose hands-on experience guides the estates’ vision, Terra Dorada and Dorval Estate are redefining expectations for the Central Valley—crafting estate-driven wines that are steadily reshaping the region’s narrative.
A Vineyard-First Philosophy: Handcrafted from the Ground Up
At Dorval and Terra Dorada, Andrew Kerr leads with his hands—in the soil, in the canopy, and in the rhythm of the land itself. Every vine is hand-selected and nurtured through a regenerative agroforestry approach that goes beyond sustainability. Cover crops, native flora, beneficial insectaries, and biodiversity corridors are all integrated into the vineyard ecosystem, allowing the vines to thrive naturally in harmony with their environment.
This method isn’t just about stewardship—it’s about building resilience, complexity, and character into every cluster. Kerr’s commitment to regenerative viticulture is matched only by his precision: vine by vine, block by block, he shapes the raw material that defines each vintage.
The result? Premium Bordeaux-style wines that echo the varietal structure of France but speak fluently in the dialect of California’s Sierra foothills—elegant yet powerful, fresh yet grounded, always expressive of their place.
From field to barrel, Andrew’s work is rooted in integrity, driven by a deep respect for the land, and focused on crafting wines that honor both tradition and transformation.
