Meet the Winemakers

A Way of Life

Get to know the people behind the wines

Some say it is a dream job. Meet some of these California winemakers and judge for yourself. Meet several winemakers from small vineyards within the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Get to know the charming and colorful Richard Graeser, the first Mexican immigrant winemaker Reynaldo Robledo Sr, young and energetic Chris Corley, soft-spoken and respected Don Baker and innovative Steve MacRostie to name a few.

Winemaking

A Mix of Art and Science

UC Davis has one of the top programs in winemaking and you will find having studied there is a common thread among many in the industry. But even with the same teaching, everyone’s approach is different. A winemaker works with the elements; soil, climate, grapes, farming, harvesting, blending all combine to give each wine its unique character. Just think of putting various ingredients in front of different chefs and how they would all come up with different dishes.

Hard work

But good work

The routes to the profession vary among this group; from farming, lumbering, studying medicine or being part of the family business. Is it in your career path? Core advice from these successful winemakers is to make sure you have passion and dedication, a willingness to learn constantly and mentors within the industry. If not, just drink their wines!