In 1988, Fess Parker bought a 714-acre California ranch; decades later, the venture spans vineyards

What started as a quiet retirement plan in California wine country has grown into a large family-owned farming and hospitality business. When actor Fess Parker bought the 714-acre Foxen Canyon Ranch in 1988, he planned to raise a small herd of cattle, plant a few acres of grapes, and start a small family winery. According to the official history on the Fess Parker Winery site, the former Hollywood star, best known for playing Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone, wanted to build a lasting family business that could be passed down through generations. Decades later, that first land purchase in Santa Barbara County has grown into a diverse group of businesses run directly by Parker's children and grandchildren. The enterprise includes award-winning vineyards, a high-end Wagyu cattle operation, boutique hospitality businesses, and a local craft brewery.Estate growth and winemaking achievementsThe family's wine business began in 1989 at Foxen Canyon Ranch along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. Over the years, the family added more vineyards to support full-scale wine production from its own estate. In 1995, Parker's son Eli Parker became head winemaker. In 2006, Eli Parker was named Winemaker of...