For the benefit of Napa Valley wineries and wine enthusiasts worldwide, Doug Hill has devoted his technical skills, education, and 40-years of experience to the local industry. Guided by the singular philosophy that “the best grapes make the best wines,” Doug presides over Oak Knoll Farming, a management company that oversees the cultivation of approximately 840 acres of vineyards. Production from these vineyards yields consistent, high-quality grapes for many Sonoma and Napa wineries.
One of the award-winning Napa Valley wineries supplied by Oak Knoll is owned and operated by Doug’s family, Hill Family Estate.
As a third-generation farmer from the Sonoma County community of Healdsburg, Doug departed to earn his degree in Plant Sciences at California State University, Fresno.
Following graduation, Mr. Hill went to work for Sonoma-Cutrer, where he learned the intricacies and art of vineyard management.
After Sonoma-Cutrer, Doug Hill moved to Yountville in Napa Valley to manage the extensive Jaeger family agricultural holdings. During this time, he expanded his detailed understanding of the impact of the various microclimates and soil diversity prevalent throughout Napa Valley.
Equipped with a broad-based vineyard management experience and reputation, Doug Hill created Oak Knoll Farming. The company is dedicated to supplying high-quality grapes to Sonoma and Napa wineries. He has applied his expertise and insight to identifying never-before-cultivated areas and even introducing new varietals to the region. Doug was the first grower to recognize the real potential of American Canyon where dozens of successful Napa wineries thrive today.
Enjoying the Fruits of Success
After four decades in the industry, Doug continues to hone his skills in the art of managing the unpredictability and diversity of Napa and Sonoma Valley growing conditions. Adapting to variances in the climate that naturally occur, Doug’s team employs environmentally friendly land management practices that produce consistent, high-quality grapes for award-winning clients.
Today, Doug’s vineyard management produces top-quality grapes for leading Napa Valley wineries including Silver Oak, Far Niente, Tamber Bey, Ramey, Duckhorn, and, of course, the family-owned Hill Family Estate.
Giving Back to the Community
Doug Hill has been active in his businesses as well as important community and industry-related organizations. He is a past president of the Napa Valley Vineyard Technical Group and a current Board Member of the Napa County Farm Bureau. He participated in the Industry Advisory Board to the Foundation Plant Services at the University of California, Davis.