Perry Creek Vineyards, in the Sierra Foothills’ Fair Play appellation, has earned a reputation over the past decade or so for honestly made Zinfandels, courtesy of their veteran winemaker, Nancy Steel. Her signature ZinMan wine, integrating El Dorado earthiness with Amador County spice, has a passionate, loyal following.

Last year, Perry Creek owner Michael Chazen, a retired menswear garment executive, decided it was time to play more and travel. In September, 2006, he sold the 15-year-old Perry Creek winery to Michele Wilms and Dieter Juergens. Wilms, an American of German descent, and Juergens, a German citizen, already owned Fair Play Farms, 29 acres of vineyards in the Fair Play AVA. Their vineyards include nine acres each of Syrah and Zinfandel, five each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah and one acre of Viognier. With the acquisition of Perry Creek, they added another 11 acres of vines to their holdings.

Wilms was raised in San Francisco and previously owned a catering and special events business. She plans to use her experience to create new retail sales and hospitality opportunities for Perry Creek. Juergens has been involved in construction and residential development in Sacramento, and prior to that, worked in the banking industry in San Francisco.

I spoke with Perry Creek winemaker Nancy Steel, who is staying on as winemaker, about the new ownership and what it means for Perry Creek’s wine portfolio.