When the Glass Fire tore through Spring Mountain in 2020, it left destruction in its wake. Among the heartbreaking losses were some ancient groves of trees, including a significant number of second growth redwoods. While our estate has shown remarkable resilience, many of these majestic giants – some of which witnessed the very footsteps of our founders – were irrevocably damaged.
Although they had stood for over a century (many which were 150-200 years old), their charred remains posed a safety hazard with their root systems withered and their towering figures in decay. The decision to fell these impressive trees was not made lightly, but in the years following the fire, over a hundred redwoods had to be taken down around our 800+ acre estate. Lucky for us, they were left in neat stacks around the property. Upon discovering the logs, we knew we couldn’t simply let this precious resource go to waste. We needed to preserve their beauty and honor their long, meaningful life.
In February, we embarked on a remarkable journey of transformation, partnering with Sonoma Timber Works to mill these fallen giants into usable lumber. With nearly 300,000 board-feet of redwood at our disposal, we’ve created a diverse range of sizes and shapes. The sheer scale of the wood is awe-inspiring – long, graceful planks and massive beams, some measuring 20”x 20”, reveal the artistry hidden within these ancient trees.
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The milling process is just the beginning. Once kiln-dried, the lumber will be carefully stored and cured in our historic La Perla Winery, a fitting return to the heart of our estate. The reclaimed redwood will play a pivotal role in restoring and enhancing our estate. Known for its exceptional beauty and durability, the wood’s rich, warm hues and natural elegance is perfect for both structural and decorative purposes.
Our first project, beginning this spring, is to replace a deck on the La Perla hillside. Built entirely from our wood on our property, it will offer breathtaking, panoramic views of the entire valley and honor the legacy of our mountain. Other plans include revitalizing our historic barn, incorporating massive beams into architectural elements, fashioning large doors for our caves, as well as floors, roofs, and crafting outdoor furniture, tableware and service pieces.
Beyond simply salvaging wood, this project is part of our commitment to sustainability, preserving the history and natural beauty of our property. By reclaiming this wood, we're preventing it from ending up in landfills and effectively capturing carbon. Instead of sourcing lumber from elsewhere, we're choosing to utilize the resources right here on our land, maintaining the integrity and authenticity of our estate. This approach aligns with our deep respect for the environment and our desire to minimize our impact.
Through this process, we're not just repurposing and building; we're honoring the past, embracing sustainability, and creating a future that reflects the enduring spirit of Spring Mountain. We're transforming loss into legacy, and turning the ashes into the foundation for new beginnings.
