Our Story

A Love Story Rooted in Passion & Place

The day we decided to purchase this historic estate, we were sitting on the mesa (our “spot” now) enjoying the view of the Arroyo Seco Gorge with a glass of wine in hand. As the sun kissed the ridge across from us and set the clouds ablaze, we were taken aback by the singular, wild beauty of this magical place.

In that moment, we saw Mesa Del Sol as so much more than a piece of land – we saw it as an opportunity for our guests to step back in time and discover the region that Steinbeck, Roosevelt, and so many others fell in love with. All while enjoying exceptional wines that reflect the unique character and history of the Arroyo Seco AVA.

This is our love story: a tale of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence, captured in every bottle. We hope that you love it as much as we do!

A Storied Estate

Mesa Del Sol’s unique location and stunning views have made it a desirable destination for almost 200 years. From its origins as a stagecoach stop in the late 1800s to its time as a health spa rumored to host Teddy Roosevelt, the estate has been a sanctuary for travelers and dreamers alike.

Over the decades, each steward of Mesa Del Sol has left their mark. Today, Mesa Del Sol continues to honor its storied past while embracing a vibrant future.

Late 1800s

Joaquin de la Torre was granted 16,523 acres, 4,000 acres of which was developed into Clark Colony at Three Mile Flat. Meanwhile, a stagecoach stop is established on the mesa overlooking the Arroyo Seco River. This way station offers shelter for travelers headed overland to Carmel Valley or Mission San Antonio.

1899

W.G.B. Moore acquired 78 acres from the United States Government and sold the mesa property to J.H. McDougall – a prominent businessman, tax collector, and banker. Capitalizing on the river and the dry air of the Arroyo Seco Highlands, McDougall develops the estate into a health spa. Old-timers tell of Teddy Roosevelt’s stay there. The stone building (presently the tool shed) was built in this period, making it the oldest building on the property today.

1917

McDougall sold his estate to Santo Wicker of Ohlone Indian heritage. Little is known of his eleven-year tenure.

1928

Fred Weybret – owner of the Salinas Journal and future California State Senator – and his wife Ethel take possession of the property.

1936

1945

The Weybrets sell the ranch to Stephen Rianda – Salinas lettuce baron and former president of Grower Shippers Association – and his wife Mary, a talented artist. The Riandas landscape the picnic area and extensive gardens, finally naming the estate Mesa Del Sol (Spanish for “sunny plateau”).

1973

Upon Stephen Rianda’s death, the property is divided among the children with the 3.75 acres surrouding the main house being sold to Thomas and Noreen Green.

Late 1800s

The Greens sell Mesa Del Sol to Jake and Ann Hougham (who also bought back 10 acres from the Riandas) and plant 7 of the acres in wine grapes. After Jake's death in 2000, Ann Hougham lovingly restored the estate while developing Mesa Del Sol's award-winning wine.

2011

Ian Brand starts as Mesa Del Sol winemaker.

2018

Ian Brand is named the San Francisco Chronicle’s Winemaker of the Year.

2021

Gary & Stacey Lyons purchase the property from Ann Hougham and begin an extensive renovation of the estate, enhancing and updating the historic structures while honoring the timeless legacy so lovingly created at Mesa Del Sol.

2022

Tyler Russell, aka the Ramblin Winemaker, starts as Mesa Del Sol’s new winemaker.

Meet the Team

Meet the passionate team behind Mesa Del Sol—the caretakers of our vineyards, the storytellers of our heritage, and the friendly faces who make every visit unforgettable.