THE QUEST

You won't find anyone on this planet with a greater passion for white wines from the Edna Valley and San Luis Obispo Coast than John Niven. He and his wife, Lucy, have been deeply rooted in the region for over 25 years, continuing a legacy that began with his grandfather’s pioneering plantings in 1973. John played a pivotal role in advancing Albariño and Grüner Veltliner in California during the mid-2000s. He firmly believes that the Edna Valley is a hidden gem among AVAs for white wine varietals and deserves recognition as one of the world’s great white wine regions. Just five miles from the Pacific Ocean, its extreme cool-climate and diverse volcanic and oceanic soils create the perfect conditions for producing white wines that are vibrant, mineral-driven, and full of character.

Our Cadre wines embody the limitless possibilities of cool-climate white wines from the San Luis Obispo Coast.  We are bound by no laws or traditions, so we are able to harness our endless potential via some of the world’s most notable varietals: Sauvignon Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, and Albariño. 

Cadre is already making waves, garnering praise from leading wine writers.

“When his pioneering wine family sold off its large brands, John Niven started his own small project, and the early results are stunning.” - Wine Enthusiast Magazine, Matt Ketmman

“Cadre is Niven's new project, focused squarely on unoaked white wines made with an emphasis on brightness and energy. It's an auspicious beginning.” – Vinous, Josh Reynolds