It all started with a honeymoon trip through the Russian River Valley north through Humboldt County. Through this experience, the focus from being in the fishery business changed dramatically to the wine business, but with one thing in common…the desire to produce quality.

Our vineyard, Torie Ranch, is located on the West Side of San Miguel with nearly three acres planted. We farm our vineyard by hand, using the latest vineyard practices to produce quality grapes for our Syrah. Owner and winemaker Tom Banish’s background includes over fifteen years experience with the Central Coast’s very own prestigious wineries, such as Justin, Treana, Zenaida and Paso Robles Wine Services.

The name, Black Hand Cellars, evolved through the many stories our great grandmother on the Banish side of the family told about how her husband made great wine…and how the Black Hand Mafia found a liking to his wine and would seek him out for it.