The vision for Toulouse Vineyards is to grow the highest quality grapes using sustainable farming practices and to produce the finest Pinot Noir, infused with the fun and passion of winemaking. For owners and winemakers Vern and Maxine Boltz, it has been an exciting journey beginning as fruit growers and evolving into producers of award-winning wines. As a boutique winery, the Boltz’ take pride in their truly handcrafted wine. By design, their smaller sized operation enables them to maintain high quality control, do all winemaking and bottling on site, and manage every facet of the entire process.

After retirement, the two decided to explore the possibility of owning vineyard land and becoming growers. Their quest brought them to a bucolic 160-acre site, approximately one mile from the town of Philo. In 1997, Vern cleared the land, prepared the site, planted 17 acres of Pinot Noir grapes, and named the vineyard Toulouse. By 2002, the couple was making wine. Subsequently, they purchased an additional 160 acres adjoining the rolling hills of their property, which now encompasses 320 acres. Visitors can admire this view while sipping a lovely glass of Toulouse Pinot Noir.

Not only do the Boltz’ reside above the bare bones winery where the wine is made, tasted and sold, they also take pleasure in creating a warm and spirited environment for their labor and management team. Their long-time employees and seasonal workers, along with their families, enjoy coming to work where the picturesque vineyard is alive with music, singing and laughter. Herein exists the magic ingredient in creating Toulouse’s distinctive wines. Visitors to the winery are greeted by their friendly lab Tess and treated as valued guests who can enjoy wine tasting in the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.