2023 · Benchlands

Martha Stoumen is a founder-owned, independent California producer based in Healdsburg, with Martha Stoumen as sole owner and winemaker. A first-generation winemaker, she works with dedicated growers and also as a négociant, sourcing fruit from dry-farmed, certified organic or organically managed vineyards, including old vines. Her approach centers on patience, low-intervention winemaking, and transparent site expression, using techniques such as native yeast, whole-cluster fermentation, full malolactic fermentation, and aging in larger-format barrels. Wines are typically unfined or gently filtered. Sustainability is reflected in organic farming, dry-farming, healthy soils, vine longevity, and avoiding harmful pesticides and herbicides. She is also part of the Overshine Collective, which shares administrative support while each winemaker keeps control of their own label.