About Forlorn Hope
Forlorn Hope is the celebrated rare-variety natural-wine label of winemaker Matthew Rorick, based at the Rorick Heritage Vineyard just outside Murphys in Calaveras County, in the Sierra Foothills. Founded in 2005, the project is known for resurrecting obscure grape varieties and for a fearless, low-intervention approach to California winemaking.
Rorick acquired the high-elevation Rorick Heritage Vineyard in 2013 and converted its roughly 75 acres to organic farming on limestone soils beneath a layer of schist. The estate now grows an eclectic mix of varieties, among them Verdelho, Trousseau, Albarino, Tempranillo, Grenache, Chenin Blanc, Zinfandel and Chardonnay, all fermented spontaneously with native yeast and raised without new oak.
Forlorn Hope pours its estate and rare-variety wines at its tasting room, with a wine club offering member tastings and exclusive bottlings. Because it is a small, appointment-oriented operation in the foothills, it is best to confirm current hours and booking details before visiting.
Matthew Rorick's rare-variety cult, a Calaveras producer flagged for region reassignment from Lodi.
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Region correction pending,Forlorn Hope's Rorick Heritage Vineyard is Calaveras County ground, not Lodi.
"Matthew Rorick's rare-variety cult, a Calaveras producer flagged for region reassignment from Lodi."
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Featured Wines
Current Releases
Wines change with each vintage
For an accurate list of current-release wines and library bottlings from Forlorn Hope, please check the winery's official website or contact the tasting room directly. Sierra Foothills producers typically rotate vintages and offerings seasonally.
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Forlorn Hope Vanguard Appointment
Appointment with the military-vanguard unusual-variety natural wine boutique, Forlorn Hope Verdelho and Trousseau Gris.
From $20
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