The Danes have a knack for savoring life’s finer things — think cozy fireplaces, minimalist design, and pastries that make your cardiologist weep. But they also have a lesser-known love affair with wine.

Let me introduce the Hammond family, who brought their Danish heritage to the fertile soils of Fresno. The Hammonds’ journey started on the SS Moravia back in 1885, when their ancestors sailed from Denmark to the bustling port of New York. After a pit stop in Nebraska, they made their way to California, where they planted the seeds — both literally and figuratively — of what would become Moravia Winery. Fast forward to today, and the family’s love for wine is alive and well in the heart of the Central Valley.

Beyond the swirl, sniff, and sip; Moravia is a tribute to the Hammond family’s rich Danish roots and passion for winemaking. The winery, named after the ship that carried their ancestors, is run by Rich and Wendi Hammond. These two are as dedicated to their craft as a Viking is to his mead. They’ve transformed an old farm equipment barn from the 1940s into a warm and inviting tasting room, where visitors can indulge in a selection of finely crafted wines.

Rich Hammond’s journey into winemaking is a story in itself. What started as a hobby quickly turned into a passion, much to Wendi’s initial chagrin. Over the years, Rich has developed a unique approach to blending wines, often experimenting with different varieties to see what sticks. Their Mavina blend, for instance, can include anywhere from two to seven different wines. It’s like the U.N. of wines, with each grape variety bringing its own unique qualities to the table. The result? A blend that’s complex, intriguing, and a crowd-pleaser.

The winery, named after the ship that carried their ancestors, is run by Rich and Wendi Hammond. (GV Wire/Dean Kirkland)

From Merlot to Symphony: The Wine Lineup

Now, let’s talk about the wine. Moravia started with humble beginnings, offering just Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. But like any great story, it evolved.

Today, the Hammonds have expanded their lineup to include a variety of wines, from Primitivo to the unique Symphony grape. Symphony, by the way, is the love child of UC Davis’s grape breeding program, designed to thrive in the Central Valley’s heat. It’s the Vin Diesel of grapes—bald, tough, versatile, and surprisingly nuanced.

One of the stars of the Moravia show is the “HYGGE 24,” a red blend that’s as complex as a Christopher Nolan movie plot. This blend features Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Cab Sauv, and Merlot, with each bottle showcasing a different dog on the label. This year’s label stars the Hammonds’ own dogs, Roly and Mogan, making it a canine-friendly affair. The wine itself is a symphony of flavors, with each grape variety playing its part in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of wine that makes you want to cozy up with a good book—or, in my case, binge-watch a crime thriller.

Speaking of thrillers, Moravia’s Primitivo is another standout. Marketed as a chilled red, this wine is perfect for those hot summer barbecues where the temperature is as high as your Uncle

Bob’s cholesterol. But don’t let that fool you; Primitivo is equally delightful at room temperature, proving it’s a versatile player. Whether you’re pairing it with a rack of ribs or a simple pasta dish, this wine delivers every time.

During one of their famous Friday night happy hours, you’re gonna want to sample their Morimosa—a clever twist on the classic mimosa, made with their sparkling Blanc de Blanc and Symphony. This drink is as refreshing as a dip in the pool on a scorching Fresno day. It’s light, bubbly, and has just the right amount of sweetness to keep you coming back for more. It’s the kind of drink that makes you want to sit back, relax, and forget all your troubles—unless your troubles include running out of Morimosa, in which case, you better order another round.

And then there’s the Symphony—a semi-sweet white that’s perfect for those blistering Fresno afternoons. With notes of peach and nectarine, it’s a refreshing choice that pairs well with everything from summer salads to light desserts. The Hammonds even suggest tossing in some frozen peaches or green apples to enhance the fruit flavors. It’s a simple yet brilliant idea that elevates a glass of wine into a mini feast.

A Playground for All Ages

Now, let’s set sail on the SS Moravia—not the actual immigrant ship, but the wooden playground ship at the winery. This kid-friendly attraction is a stroke of genius, featuring slides, a fireman’s pole, and enough fun to keep the little ones entertained for hours. It’s like a mini theme park, but instead of Mickey Mouse, you’ve got parents enjoying a well-deserved glass of wine. The setup is perfect: while the kids run wild, the adults can relax and sip on award-winning wines, making it a win-win situation for the whole family.

Moravia Winery is a full-fledged event venue and they host around 30 weddings a year, offering a vineyard chapel that could make even the most jaded bachelor consider settling down. The setting is picturesque, surrounded by lush vines that provide a stunning backdrop for any ceremony. And if you’re not quite ready to tie the knot, Moravia has plenty of other events to offer, from live music nights to themed parties. They even have an Elvis impersonator who makes regular appearances—because nothing says “wine country” like The King belting out “Jailhouse Rock.”

As my visit came to a close, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the Hammonds’ dedication to their craft. They’ve created more than just a winery; they’ve built a community hub where people can come together, enjoy great wine, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado or just someone looking for a relaxing afternoon, Moravia Winery offers a welcoming experience that embodies the spirit of Fresno and the rich heritage of the Hammond family.

So, if you find yourself in the area, make sure to swing by Moravia Winery. Grab a glass, soak in the scenery, and let the Hammonds show you what Fresno hospitality is all about. Just don’t forget to try the Morimosa—it might just become your new favorite summer drink. Until next time, keep your glasses full and your spirits high. Cheers!

About the Author

GV Wire Producer Dean Kirkland is the founder and director of Gas and Gears, an independent film production company that has produced numerous television series and feature films, including the award-winning documentary “Racing Through The Forest” (2014).