Is the old Pahrump Valley Winery reopen as a new business?

After being shuttered to the public for more than two and a half years, the vineyard at the top of Winery Road is ready to welcome wine lovers once more and it’s news that many in the community are greeting with enthusiasm.

The Pahrump Valley Winery got its start decades ago under founder Jack Sanders, who eventually sold the property to Bill and Gretchen Loken in the early 2000s. After more than 15 years of operating the business and building it into an icon of the community, the Lokens decided it was time to retire and the property was bought by Nevada Wine Cellars Inc. However, that company struggled to keep the business afloat and ended up filing for bankruptcy in 2022, which was followed by its official closure in January 2023.

New owner Ernest Moody then assumed the property and put together a team of wine and viticulture experts who have now taken the former Pahrump Valley Winery and rebranded it with a name that gives a nod to one of the most beautiful sights in the valley, Mount Charleston. The newly revamped Charleston Peak Winery officially opened this August, offering both wine tastings and a savory lunch menu, all nestled in a sprawling vineyard filled with grapes whose uniqueness lends distinction to the wine list.

“Bringing a fresh expression of wine country to the Mojave Desert, Charleston Peak Winery has officially opened its doors in Southern Nevada,” a press release announced on August 6. “Formerly known as Pahrump Valley Winery, the reimagined destination offers an immersive tasting experience of locally grown wines, panoramic mountain views and fare from the award-winning AMARI Italian Kitchen & Wine Shops in Las Vegas.”

The winemaking itself is under the direction of Steve Bowen, a man who certainly knows his way around wine grapes.

“Steven Bowen, whose resume includes acclaimed Napa Valley producers Jessup Cellars and Handwritten Wines, honors the legacy of Pahrump winemaking while pushing the boundaries with small-batch craftsmanship and estate varietals shaped by the extremes of the desert climate,” the company detailed, adding, “The winery’s locally grown portfolio is made possible through its partnership with Bolton Wines, the vineyard management company led by Austin Bolton.”

From Symphony Peak - as a crisp, floral white - and Symphony Moon - an aromatic, slightly dry white - to Amargosa Blend - characterized as a bold, full-bodied red - and vibrant White Zinfandel Rose, Charleston Peak Winery has a taste to please just about any palate. And patrons will want to be sure to try to Estate Sparkling Wine, with a descriptor of, “The first of its kind in Nevada, this methode traditionnelle sparkler showcases bright fruit, fine bubble and subtle minerality.”

Stopping by the winery on Monday, Aug. 25, the Pahrump Valley Times witnessed several locals enjoying these wines as they lounged in the stylish yet comfortable seating arranged throughout the tasting room. Another was at the bar, sipping on a glass of wine while delighting in a course of AMARI menu offerings, which range from simple items like marinated olives to meatballs, salami, cheese and focaccia panino.

“Additional snacks, such as wine chips, cocktail nuts, Rogue jerky and wine-inspired popcorn are also available,” the winery stated. “Customizable tastings include curated wine and chocolate pairings that spotlight unexpected flavor profiles, such as the Amargosa Blend, featuring a double dark ganache, and a floral Riesling paired with an Aleppo pepper and pineapple ganache.”

And manning the bar at Charleston Peak is a face many in the community will already know well, local performer Rick Scanlan.

Scanlan said he was thrilled to be able to work as a sommelier for the winery and noted that business has been steadily picking up as word gets out that it is back open. He encouraged everyone to take some time to visit and experience its all-new wine offerings and completely redecorated interior furnished with an abundance of tables and seating, as well as books and even some games to entertain patrons as they drink their wine.

“Charleston Peak Winery is more than a destination; it’s a celebration of what’s possible in Nevada winemaking,” Bowen remarked. “We’re working with intense sun, rocky soil and limited diurnal shifts, which challenge us to be precise and inventive. Every bottle we produce tells the story of the land.”

Charleston Peak Winery is located at 3810 Winery Rd. The tasting room is open Thursday through Monday from noon to 5 p.m. and closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. For more information visit CharlestonPeakWinery.com or call 775-751-7800.

Contact reporter Robin Hebrock at rhebrock@pvtimes.com