Saintsbury is looking toward the future, announcing new leadership at the Napa Valley winery while celebrating its 40th anniversary.
Co-founder David Graves announced his retirement at a small gathering of family and friends while toasting the next 40 years. Trent Ward, son of late co-founder Richard Ward, has been named the managing partner and Winemaker Tim Colla, who has been with the winery for 11 years, has been appointed as a partner.
“For my sister Philippa Ward and I, Saintsbury has almost always been a part of our lives,” Ward said. “I couldn’t be more proud of representing the legacy that my father and David have built, and am excited to carry on the tradition of the winery and everything that makes it special. We are also proud to welcome Tim Colla as a partner to the winery. He embraces the pioneering and creative spirit of Saintsbury and will lead us into the future.”
Founded by the late Ward and Graves in 1981, Saintsbury plans to continue its mission of making world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but is further exploring varietals such as Gamay and Chenin Blanc. The first Saintsbury Pét-Nat has recently been released, and the inaugural Saintsbury Santa Barbara Pinot Noir will be released within the next year.
Colla will carry on Saintsbury’s foundation in Carneros, as well as a newly-expanded winemaking program that has evolved to encompass many other California Pinot Noir regions, including the Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, Anderson Valley, Santa Cruz Mountains, Central Coast, Monterey and now Santa Barbara appellations.
“I am proud to be part of this group and I am really excited after being here 11 years to look forward, expand the winemaking program with the addition of innovative varieties that enhance the Saintsbury brand, and guide the winery into the future,” Colla said.
Many of Saintsbury’s past and current winemakers recently met privately with the owning partners and family members to commemorate the winery’s 40th anniversary, each representing a specific era: Bill Knuttel (1983-1996), Byron Kosuge (1996-2001), Jerome Chery (2004-2013) and Chris Kajani (2013-2015).
“The celebration of Saintsbury’s 40th Anniversary is the perfect occasion for us to look forward, with deep respect and gratitude for our past. From long-time growers, to our winemaking and winery team, our customers and trade partners, we are grateful for so many people who are part of the Saintsbury family, and who have had an instrumental role in our progression,” said Partner Linda Reiff.
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