Adventure JournalVolcano Camp 2024

Our first-ever, two-day immersive for trade.

Obsidian Ridge Vineyard

April 16 & 17, 2024

It’s a Wrap

A few weeks ago, wine reps, sommeliers, buyers, and press joined us for Obsidian’s inaugural Volcano Camp. Held at the top of Obsidian Ridge Vineyard in the high Mayacamas Mountains, guests had access and learned from the leading geologists, viticulturalists and soil scientists of the West Coast.

A dozen trade partners earned the full "camper" experience–two and a half days learning about and enjoying volcanic wines from around the world, as well as visiting a leading truffle farm and a saffron farm – both neighbors of ours who highlight the agricultural diversity of this volcanic region.

Campers were joined by dozens more industry collaborators and SommFoundation scholars for the Keynote event. The day began with a hike led by USGS scientist Seth Burgess, followed by "The Terroir of Volcanics" – a deep dive on Climate, Geology, Viticulture, and Soil with esteemed panelists Dr. Paul Skinner and Nicole Hayden of Leviathan Wine joining Seth and our own Peter Molnar. 

We were treated to a sumptuous feast of fire-roasted lamb by Chef Kevin O'Connor, who commemorated the occasion with this Instagram reel.

The afternoon panel "The Curious World of Volcanic Wine," led by winemakers Alex Beloz & Joy Merilees, featured a lively discussion on the culture and character of volcanic regions, aka nature vs. nurture. 

Ryan Woodhouse, the domestic wine buyer for esteemed California retailer K&L Wines, wrote an exceptional summary of the day on the shops "On the Trail" blog. 

Mark your calendars for next year’s Volcano Camp: April 30th, 2025

This is not something you’ll want to miss.