I am a second year harvest intern for Napa Cellars Winery located in St. Helena CA. As a graduate of the Craig School of Business at Fresno State, and a lover of wine and food, I decided to combine my passion with my education and enter the wine production industry. My job is all about wine, but sometimes I even take my work home with me. I often pair wine with (or infuse wine into) my meals, and naturally I use Napa Cellars wines. Because if you’re going to go through the trouble of making braised lamb shanks why not make the wine they cook in too.
How did you get interested in wine?
My best friends Dad started a winery when I was 11 years old and I became infatuated with the viticulture and enology.
Is this your first harvest?
This is my second harvest. So, I have a basic understanding of the processes involved with making Napa Cellars wine yet still have a lot to learn.
What trait do you have that makes you perfect for working harvest?
I have no threshold for hours of work. Once I get to the 10+ hour mark I might as well work 20 hours It makes no difference to me. As a former firefighter I have no problem functioning on <4 hours of sleep.
What is the craziest thing you’ve done so far for harvest?
The craziest thing I’ve done so far this harvest is power wash a light post that was housing a yellow jacket nest.
Where do you hope to get out of your harvest experience with Napa Cellars?
I hope to get into Enology/Winemaking. I love creating things and sharing them with others. Whether it’s a house, meal, or glass of wine I enjoy putting my heart and soul into something and see other people enjoy it.
Do you intend to stay in the wine industry after harvest?
I intend to stay in the wine industry. I love food and wine and would enjoy pairing them together.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Creative, mechanical, efficient.
When you’re not drinking wine, what’s your beverage of choice?
I would have to say Scotch, Scothchy Scotch, Scotch, Scotch. Lagavulin or Laphroaig are my favorites but I’ll have to put in a few more 12 hour days to afford any.
What is your favorite song?
“On Bended Knee” by Boys To Men. I feel bad for kids in middle school they have no slow songs to awkwardly dance to any more.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
To accurately predict when the grapes will be ripe.