Ayla: In Tune with Nature

Ayla is a name from the Old Testament. The prefix “Ay” translates to “moon,” while the suffix “la” represents “presence with or in tune with.” Growing grapes, “in tune with the cosmos,” means scheduling farming practices around the lunar cycle. Theoretically, crops are more successfully fertilized, pruned, or harvested during particular phases of the lunar cycle. The same goes for different processes of winemaking. The lunar calendar categorizes days into four groups – flower, fruit, leaf, and root – based on where the moon is in accordance with various constellations. For example, fruit days occur when the moon is in any of the fire signs, like Sagittarius or Aries. Each day is optimal for various plants or procedures. But the most interesting is that the beliefs don’t end in the field. Winemakers and gardeners alike believe the results extend right into your wine glass, thanks to the moon!

Richard's entry into the wine industry came in 1987, when he joined the family business in Massachusetts, transitioning a small “package store” into a Massachusetts fine wine & spirits chain. Always wishing to someday make and sell his own wines Richard started the importing company, Negociant Direct, creating new wine brands in California, New Zealand, Italy, Chile and Argentina and offering “Winery Direct” delivery to Massachusetts retailers and restaurateurs.

In 2014 after selling the Cardoza's wine & spirits chain and Negociant Direct he moved to Napa Valley with the dream of building a company using the same model as Negociant Direct, selling wines Direct from Napa Valley, to the retailer, without adding the third level of a distributor, ultimately allowing for better value for the consumer. While in Napa he rekindled old and created new relationships while consulting on winery openings and other projects and eventually saw his dream become reality.