There is a proverb that states: 'By leaping to avoid your fate, you meet it.'

Even before the Nebbiolo vineyard which would form the original basis of Amethyst was planted, cofounder Mike Richmond thought the name Amethyst deserved a wine. Amethyst was a nymph in a Roman myth about Bacchus, and seemed a perfect namesake. The label's stylized image of wine amphoras reference the myth. When the Richmond (formerly T and A) Vineyard bore fruit and was first made into wine in 1994 the name became the wine. The original Nebbiolo blend which we call Vinalia continues to be made.

In 2001 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon was made the primary focus of Amethyst. Grapes from the Brooks Family Vineyard in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley are the foundation of this wine.

In 2004 we added a white wine, a reserve (Alsatian style) Pinot Gris/Grigio from the Carneros District.

Our goal is to create delicious wines expressing the best each varietal and vintage has to offer.