Archimedes is sourced from high elevation vineyards in Alexander Valley. High elevation means prolonged sun exposure and less dramatic temperature shifts. Vines can synthesize flavor and phenolic compounds at a higher and more consistent rate. Light onshore winds also work to moderate the temperature. Together, these conditions allow for a slow, steady ripening of the grapes, even when bud break is delayed after a dusting of snow during the winter.

The fruit selected for Archimedes comes from three separate vineyards in Alexander Valley. Archimedes Vineyard, in Pine Mountain Cloverdale Peak sub AVA, is one of the highest elevation vineyards in Sonoma County. Residing high above the fog line at 2,100 feet, it features soil made of medium sized rocks mixed with a fine loam. Newman Vineyard (elevation: 349 ft.) in Knights Valley contributes additional fruit this vintage, as does Gird Creek Vineyard. Gird Creek is 250 feet above sea level, and in a cooler pocket of Alexander Valley, and features deep, well-drained alluvium soil with mixed rocks.

In 2018, precipitation carried on into spring, extending the growing period several weeks past the preceding year. There were also fewer heat spikes this season, allowing the fruit to ripen at a nice steady pace, thus providing slightly larger yields of very well-balanced fruit.