“These wineries are really producing some beautiful Cab and Petit Sirah up here.”
-Clay Shannon
Shannon Ridge Vineyards
FAQs - Rim Rock Ranch Vineyard Estates
The Location
Q: Where is Rim Rock Ranch Vineyard Estates?
A: Rim Rock Ranch is in Middletown, next to Hidden Valley Lake, in Lake County. It's just 25 minutes north of Napa County, with Sonoma and Mendocino counties bordering to the west. As driving times go, Middletown is about 25 minutes from Calistoga, 1 hr. from Napa, 2 hrs. from San Francisco, and 2-3/4 hrs. from Silicon Valley.
Q: What conveniences are located in the immediate area?
A: Rim Rock is located very close to a grocery/hardware store, restaurants, schools, and all of the typical shops found in a small town in California.
Click here to see a list of local resources.
Q: What recreational activities are close by?
A: The Hidden Valley Lake golf course is an 18-hole PGA-rated course and is only minutes from Rim Rock Ranch. Clear Lake offers a variety of water sports and fishing and is only 15 minutes away. Within a half-hour drive there are state and national parks and forests for hiking, biking and horseback riding.
Q: Where are the nearest schools, doctors, hospitals, fire station etc.
A: The elementary school is located next to Hidden Valley Lake. The junior and senior high schools are in Middletown, an approximately 10-minute drive. There are medical clinics in both Middletown and Hidden Valley Lake, and a hospital in Clearlake. Much of Lake County is protected by CDF (California Department of Forestry) stations, as well as local fire stations in Middletown and Hidden Valley Lake.
Q: What is the population of the Middletown area? Of Lake county?
A: Middletown's population is approximately 2,200. Hidden Valley Lake's is about 7,000; Lake County's population is 64,000.
The Property
Q: How will I get water, sewer and electricity to my property?
A: Each parcel has a well. Septic systems have been approved for each parcel. Power will be provided at the property line.
Q: What if I want to plant a vineyard?
A: Rim Rock Ranch Vineyard Estates was so named for its excellent vineyard potential. A professional vineyard manager maintains Cimarron Vineyards, at the core of the development, and the grapes are under contract to a notable Napa Valley winery. Many parcels are ideal for vineyard development and there are professionals available to assist owners. Call the listing agent for details.
Q: May I have horses?
A: Yes. One may have up to six horses, depending on what other livestock or pets one has. The CC&Rs spell out the details.
Q: Are there CC&Rs and are they available?
A: Yes. Available on request, contact Patrick Taylor at info@rimrockvineyardestates.com or call (650) 269-2160
Q: Will there be homeowners' fees?
A: Fees are $85 per month for 2013.
Q: How much will it cost to build?
A: While actual construction costs can vary widely based on design and amenities, the combined county permit fees should average less than $5.00 per square foot, which is just a fraction of permit fees in counties like Napa or Sonoma.