Wine Portfolio

Mike Trotta

Winemaker, Elyse Winery

In 2000, I worked a harvest at Bernardus Winery and made delicate wines using traditional Burgundian methods. From there I went to South Australia and worked a vintage at Yalumba Winery and was exposed to large-scale production and progressive techniques. Starting as assistant winemaker for Elyse Winery in 2001, my approach to winemaking is a balance of these sometimes opposing traditional and progressive styles.

Country born: United States

Education: I grew up in Southern California and studied Microbiology at CSU Northridge. My fascination with fermentation was ignited there and continued at Fresno State.

Years in the wine industry: 10-15 years

Winemaking Philosophy:
In a word - Blending. I have never tasted a young wine that could not be improved in some way by blending.