Sean Capiaux

Winemaker, Progeny Winery

Sean Capiaux, has deftly established his impressive and notable career over the past 21 years at prominent wineries around the globe. He graduated from California State University, Fresno (BS, Enology; minor in Chemistry) in the late 80's. Sean then began his career at Jordan Winery in Sonoma County's Alexander Valley. He joined the Houghton Winery located outside Perth for one harvest. Sean then returned to the United States as assistant winemaker at Pine Ridge Winery in the Stags Leap district of Napa Valley. Two years later the Peter Michael Winery in Calistoga tapped Sean as the assistant winemaker.

In 1994, Sean launched his own label, Capiaux Cellars, which has garnered favorable reactions among professional reviewers, a cadre of restaurateurs, and consumers. In 1996, Sean moved temporarily to New York so his wife could attend Cornell University. As a bicoastal winemaker, Sean continued to produce Capiaux Cellars Pinot Noir in California, while working as the winemaker for Macari Vineyards, Jamesport Vineyards and Schneider Vineyards on the north Fork of Long Island.

Sean serves as winemaker for the Progeny Estate Winery and consistently creates world class mountain Cabernets. Sean describes his winemaking style as neo-classic in that he employs modern equipment to produce non-interventious wines which are naturally fermented and bottled unfined and unfiltered. These techniques allow the varietal character and terroir of the Progeny Estate to be the stars of the show.

Country born: United States

Education: California State University, Fresno BS, Enology; minor in Chemistry

Years in the wine industry: 20-30 years

Winemaking Philosophy:
Strive for power, balance and finesse.