Born and raised in California, Richard Litsch became interested in wine while attending the University of California, Davis. After obtaining his B.S. degree in 1983, he began work at Rombauer Vineyards. After two years in the Napa Valley, he was off to Australia, working a harvest and traveling extensively through both Australia and New Zealand's wine country.

Upon returning, Richard became Assistant Winemaker at Chalone Vineyard, and established Solitude Wines. The 1986 and 1987 Chardonnay vintages were sold only as futures, and further expansion in 1988 to 800 cases meant leaving Chalone to pursue Solitude full time.

Richard's focus on Solitude includes direct sales in California to restaurants and retailers. He personally handles all sales calls, order processing and often delivers the wine himself. He also coordinates out of state sales with his distributors. Running his "one man show" business, in addition to winemaking, keeps Richard very busy!

Today, Solitude produces 5000 cases of ultra premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Richard does not plan to expand further, but prefers to stay small and focus on high quality.

Solitude Wines
3241 Oak Farm Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95401
(BUS) 707-573-8240 (FAX) 707-573-8241