Namesake
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon
Spring Mountain District
Premiere Napa Valley is our annual opportunity to have fun in the cellar, showcasing the very best examples that highlight the vintage. It’s a chance to make something special that is only available in small amounts to the winning bidder. This year we decided to pull from two of our favorite blocks that also feature the numbers 7 and 8—and that’s why we chose to call this wine Vineyard 7 & 8 Namesake Cabernet Sauvignon—a true sense of place.
Winemaker, Vineyard 7 & 8
After receiving her degree in Oenology and Viticulture from the Geisenheim University in Germany, Martha spent 10 years honing her craft in Germany, Australia, and the U.S. before joining Merryvale Vineyards in Napa Valley as Assistant Winemaker in 1995. While at Merryvale, Martha began working with Harlan Estate, which recruited her in 1997.
In 2001, she joined SLOAN Estate as Winemaker, where she oversees production and vineyard management utilizing small lot fermentation, rigorous sorting, and a meticulous approach to world-class viticulture. Martha also consulted for Blankiet Estate, raising vineyard and winery quality.
In 2006, Martha joined Checkerboard Vineyards for their inaugural vintage, and continues to make their wines today. Martha and her husband, Bob Levy, also have their own label, LEVY & McCLELLAN, produced from grapes grown at their family vineyard on the hillsides of the Mayacama Mountain range.
Martha joined Vineyard 7 & 8 in 2014, and lives with Bob and their three children in St. Helena.
Country born: United States
Education: Oenology and Viticulture Degree, Geisenheim University, Germany
Years in the wine industry: 15-20 years
Winemaking Philosophy:
Martha's philosophy is first and foremost a reflection of the vineyard, focusing on crafting wines naturally with a true sense of place.
Winemaker, Vineyard 7 & 8
Wesley’s journey in the Napa Valley began in 2001 after graduating from the Culinary Institute of America. Spending nearly two years working for Thomas Keller at The French Laundry, Wesley focused on expanding upon his passion for food and wine. In 2002 Wes began as a harvest intern at Harlan Estate Winery where he gained a deep appreciation and understanding of the winemaking process. After four years as a member of the winemaking team at Harlan Estate and BOND Estates wineries, Wes’ journey then led him up Spring Mountain to Vineyard 7 & 8 where he took the reins of his family’s dream.
Surrounded by a word-class team, including Winemaker Martha McClellan, Wes’ role as the winery’s Estate Director and Associate Winemaker allows him to focus on the constant quest for not only the utmost in wine quality but also growing the awareness of the brand and providing a premiere guest experience.
Country born: United States
Education: Winemaker Mentors:
Bob Levy, Harlan Estate
Martha McCellan, Levy & McClellan
Luc Morlet, Morlet Family Vineyards
Years in the wine industry: 15-20 years
Winemaking Philosophy:
An uncompromising pursuit of and vision towards producing premium, handcrafted wines highlighting a sense of place within the Spring Mountain District through experience, passion and humility.
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