MADERA, CA — Quady Winery is celebrating its 50th vintage this year, showcasing its long-standing impact on the California wine industry. Founded by winemaker Andrew (Andy) Quady in the mid-1970s, the family-owned winery has grown from a small operation into a producer of 250,000 cases of wine annually. Today, its wines reach 48 states and 17 countries around the world.
A Unique Path in Winemaking
A selection of Quady Winery’s signature wines, representing the winery’s innovative approach to dessert wines.
To begin, Andy earned his winemaking degree from U.C. Davis in 1973. Moreover, he then began his career in Lodi before relocating to Madera. Unlike many of his peers, who focused on popular varieties like cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, Andy chose to specialize in dessert wines. This was after Sacramento retailer Darrell Corti, recognized that despite the great cabernets and chardonnays that were being produced at the time, California had yet to make a great vintage port. Therefore, following advice from Darrell Corti, Andy produced California’s first premium vintage port made from zinfandel grapes in 1975. Fortunately, this wine gained positive attention, allowing Andy to carve out a niche in a competitive market.
Growth & Leadership
Over time, Quady Winery has continued to thrive under the leadership of Andy and his wife, Laurel (Laurie). What began as a side project has developed into a business with over 30 employees. Additionally, Quady Winery has been self-started and financed since the beginning, remaining independently owned and managed by the Quady Family. In turn, Andy attributes much of the winery’s success to the dedication of his team and the long-term relationships with grape growers. Therefore, he fosters a culture of independent thinking and loyalty among his employees.
Commitment to Sustainability
Quady Winery’s facility in Madera, showcasing its unique blend of innovation and tradition as it celebrates 50 years of winemaking.
In addition to its business growth, Quady Winery has become a leader in sustainability. For instance, the winery powers 60% of its operations with solar energy and recycles wastewater to irrigate the vineyard. Consequently, this commitment to environmentally responsible practices earned it certification as a California Certified Sustainable winery.
Notable Firsts & Achievements
- 1975: Andrew Quady produced the first Quady vintage port from Amador Zinfandel
- 1977: Quady Winery moved to Madera, the first winery building constructed
- 1980: Accompanies Dr. Olmo to Portugal to identify original Portuguese port varieties for later use in port-style wines
- 1980: Andy discovers a rare planting of orange muscat grapes and produces Essensia, America’s first premium muscat dessert wine
- 1983: Andy makes Elysium, America’s first premium dessert wine from Black Muscat
- 1987: Andy begins making port from Portuguese varieties, renames it as “Starboard” in deference to Portugal’s legacy
- 1990: Quady makes America’s first premium Moscato-style wine – Electra
- 1999: Andy makes Vya Vermouth, America’s first craft vermouth
- 2007: Palomino Fino Sherry is produced – the first California solera sherry made from biodynamic Palomino grapes. Also, the first solera was established after the demolition of the sherry soleras in the early 1980s.
- 2009: Quady Winery named “Best U.S. Producer” at the International Wine and Spirits Competition
- 2009, 2010: Vya named “Best Vermouth” at the International Wine and Spirits Competition
- 2010: 50,000 cases of production
- 2015: 100,000 cases of production
- 2022: 200,000 cases of production
- 2024: Introduction of Electra Black, red blend: black muscat and rhone varieties. Numerous golds, Best of Show, Best of Class, Grand Champion awards from top competitions
- 2022, 2023, 2024 San Francisco Chronicle – Best of Class for at least one wine.
- 2024 Houston – Top Dessert Wine & Best of Class for Essensia
Looking Ahead
All in all, as Quady Winery celebrates 50 years of growth and innovation, Andy continues to focus on producing high-quality wines with unique styles. Looking ahead to 2025, Andy will turn 80, reflecting on five decades of achievements and contributions to the wine industry. Andy’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation ensures the Quad Winery remains a leader in the field for years to come.
For more information about Quady Winery and to find the nearest distributor of Quady wines, please visit here.
