Hellanback Ranch Vineyard was established in the Winter of 2006 at John York and Paula Payne's Hellanback Ranch in Ramona, California.  The vineyard was a dream that was a long time in becoming a reality, but when some dedicated pioneers in Ramona managed to obtain an American Viticultural Area designation for the Ramona Valley, it was time to go into action.

Ramona actually has a long history of growing grapes and making wine, dating back to the early Spanish missions.  Ramona is located between the front range of the coastal mountains of Southern California and the Pacific Ocean, enjoying hot days and cool nights influenced by the coastal marine layer.  The area is ideal for growing quality warm weather varietals such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Zinfandel, Merlot, Sangiovese, Viognier, and others.

John and Paula are members of the Ramona Valley Vineyard Association, whose mission is "sharing of viticulture experience, methods, and innovations which produce quality fruit and promote the Ramona Valley as a premier wine region."  John has formerly served as the association's Program Coordinator and President, and continues to work with members of the RVVA and the wine grape community to promote sustainable vineyard practices and quality wine making.