About Forlorn Hope

Forlorn Hope is built on Matthew Rorick's vision, who crafts natural wines from 75 acres of organically farmed soils in the rugged Sierra Foothills. Matt sees his wines as bold ventures into the breach, displaying California’s viticultural bounty via uncommon varieties. He ferments them spontaneously, adds no chemicals, and eschews new oak in the cellar, resulting in wines of aromatic complexity, texture, and bright acidity. Matt’s viticultural passion began during meals with his grandfather, who introduced him to stellar wines and regaled him with stories.

He founded Forlorn Hope in 2005. For years, it was a one-man show, but over time, Matt has enlisted the help of vineyard manager Demetrio Nava, Director of Operations and assistant winemaker Danielle Sheha. In 2013, the team acquired the Rorick Heritage Vineyard, a high-elevation vineyard that Demetrio has tended for over 15 years. When Matt took over, he began converting the land to organic farming and planting an eclectic collection of grape varieties. Today, in addition to the Chardonnay, the vineyard slopes bear Grenache, Chenin Blanc, Tempranillo, Zinfandel, Albariño, Verdelho, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Trousseau Noir, Grenache Blanc, and Muscat Blanc. The name comes from the Dutch “verloren hoop,” meaning “lost troop” a band of soldiers sent headlong into enemy defenses. Matt reconnects with pre-Prohibition viticultural traditions to craft bottles that shine.