Project Spotlight: Feliz Creek Cellars

Feliz Creek Cellars is a family owned and operated winery that produces small batch wines using only the finest grapes grown on the estate vineyards. In addition, they are an exemplary resource for premium winemakers in Mendocino County, California. 

When Gary Breen of Feliz Creek Cellars contacted us at Western Steel Buildings to provide a state-of-the-art building system for his new facility we knew we could exceed his expectations and provide a modern steel structure that was efficient and climate controlled. Feliz Creek Cellars is now in operation, complete with the latest equipment built for quality processing as well as real time web-based tracking of aging wines for local premium wine producers.

The Building 

This attractive 26′ tall structure is actually two attached buildings for a total of 60,000 square feet and is a true climate-controlled facility maintaining a standard temperature and humidity within. This was able to be achieved by using insulated metal panels (IMPs) for the building envelope combined with innovative technology. The exterior is finished with the addition of parapets at the perimeter keeping any mechanical or HVAC units on the roof hidden, complimenting the sleek and modern aesthetics.  

The Tanks

There are three sizes of fully jacketed custom stainless steel tanks built by Westec.6,878 gal. / 13,550 gal. / 20,400 gal.  All tanks are set up for stave aging.

The Equipment

From industry standard waukesha pumps to completely customizable barrel steamers, Feliz Creek Cellars has the proper tools to age wine. Micro-oxygenation is available on stainless steel tanks and smaller lots may be stored in Flexcubes to allow for passive oxygenation.

The Crush Line

The crush line is an assembly of the latest boutique equipment designed to preserve grape quality. Automated sorting and gentle handling of fruit equates to the cleanest possible composition and fruit is uncompromised. Their clients can see real-time operations and lab results as soon as they are complete. Inventory and status of wines are available anytime and anywhere their clients have web access.