The DORVAL wine brand represents a passion for life, and the relentless zest to always pursue and achieve the impossible. To understand DORVAL's wines, purpose, history and legacy, one needs to understand our founders and true pioneers, Andrew Kerr and Rebecca Kerr. Over the course of six years, intense research and land scouting Andrew and Rebecca purchased two rugged open range ranch sites and the estate winery. Now with 216 plantable acres in high elevations they identified unique native ground similar to Paso Robles, and the southern parts of Europe.

 

For many years the Central Valley has been known as a bulk wine region but Andrew and Rebecca are changing that narrative. With the migration of residents to the valley, and a community yearning for spectacular local grown wines; they have found something powerful and disruptive to the valley. A virgin terroir that is diverse with calcium, decomposed granite, minerals, clay and volcanic soil. Providing an ideal balance between acidity, calcium and PH levels which are ideal for growing low yielding wine grapes. These rugged vineyards give our wines a disruptive edge to deliver something remarkable.​

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​DORVAL holds deep personal meaning for the Kerr family. The name is inspired by the town of Dorval in Quebec, Canada, where Andrew's extended family founded Domain LaFrance—a winery, apple farm, bakery, and distillery. Andrew's mother, Manon, was born on that apple farm, making DORVAL a heartfelt tribute to the Kerr family roots.

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Andrew spends most of his days hand managing his vineyards to ensure they produce high quality wines. From the terrain to the artistry of growing wine grapes Andrew is deeply involved in the science of growing high quality wine grapes which means less yield and no chemicals. Void of mechanical farming each vine is touched and every vine is harvested by hand to select only the finest grape clusters at harvest. 

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Beyond its personal connection, DORVAL also embodies rich symbolism. The name evokes images of golden hills and the strength of leadership, reflecting the love, perseverance, and careful planning that have gone into the journey. DORVAL is excited to infuse these qualities into every bottle we produce and each experience we offer to our guests.

 

The Kerr Family

Andrew and Rebecca Kerr are devoted parents to two beautiful children, embodying a life rooted in authenticity. With over 200 acres of land they raise their family with grass fed beef cattle and organic wine vineyards alongside their two dogs, Buddy and Dutch. Andrew and Rebecca both come from humble beginnings and prioritize quality of life and discipline over abundance. Their bold originality is the true essence of a renaissance family. Void of hustle bustle and modern distractions they prioritize realness. Opting for a simpler way of living has enriched their family experiences and breaks the barriers of status quo. 

 

Andrew and Rebecca Kerr's journey into winemaking and viticulture began with a heartfelt tribute to their daughter, who underwent a significant open-heart surgery and a very long road to good health. In her honor, they planted a vineyard and food garden, igniting their passion for winemaking and a commitment to living among nature and living with passion and intention.

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Before founding DORVAL Estate Winery, Andrew spent 18 years in finance as the founder of The Kerr Companies and competed as an amateur/pro cyclist. Together their business acumen, combined with a deep appreciation for nature, helped shape their winery's operations.

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Rebecca, a former general manager of Piccadilly Hotels, also has a strong background in finance as the CFO of The Kerr Companies for 16 years. Rebecca studied accountancy and biological sciences at Fresno State University. Her love for nature complements their shared vision of crafting exceptional wines, making DORVAL a true family endeavor rooted in passion and expertise.