Ben Larks

Ben’s winemaking is rooted in exploration. Growing up in Southern California, wine was always part of social gatherings, from family dinners, to barbecues at a cousin’s house, and  joyful gatherings with friends. Attending University in Northern California’s wine country during the time of logo’d glasses and free tastings, Ben took full advantage of the opportunity to taste through Sonoma and Napa’s wineries to hone his palate. 

Like many life journeys, Ben’s path to winemaking was not straightforward. A Marketing Degree at University; a permaculture certification from his time in Ecuador during a year of travel and exploration through Latin America after years of working in nonprofit education; and a teaching credential of academia, arts, and nature caliber at a holistic school on his return to Sonoma County. Learning skills that he used to teach the youth of today like gardening, painting, wood & stone carving, and farming. During the teaching program, he had the opportunity to work the wine harvest at Deerfield Ranch Winery in Kenwood. His first harvest, besides being mesmerized & submerged in the grape harvest, he was teaching as well as going to class. Through this first harvest, a world of creativity, passion, nature, precision, and learning imprinted on his soul.

Beginning with one ton of fruit, he and Ari founded Idle Cellars in 2006 and began to organically grow the winery through hands-on learning, hustle, and many incredible mentors and renowned winemakers. From vineyard to cellar these mentors, experiences, and jobs, helped improve their craft. 

Living, learning,  and working in Sonoma County since the last millenium, Ben’s approach to winemaking emphasizes getting involved in the vineyard to ensure the best quality from vine to bottle. Ben continues to learn and travel, sharing drinks with locals and friends, while opening himself and Idle wines to new techniques and flavors.