Wine Portfolio

Karen Culler

Winemaker, Ladera Vineyards

Although I had made wine with my father and grandfather when I was growing up, I actually started in the wine industry at a small winery in Washington state, Associated Vintners. After a year in the cellar, I decided to go to UC Davis to learn more. After a Master's Degree from UCD, as "continuing education," I started at Robert Mondavi Winery for a six-month internship—which lasted for 12 years and through two of their wineries. In 1997, I started to make my own wine and at the same time, I became a consulting winemaker for other small brands. I joined Ladera in 1998, which was their first vintage.

Country born: United States

Education: MS Viticulture and Enology: UC Davis

Years in the wine industry: 20-30 years

Winemaking Philosophy:
I hold vineyards in the number one position for making outstanding wine—vineyards can make or break a wine. So my primary goal is to find excellent vineyard locations and to "encourage" those spots to grow grapes to the fullest potential of the area. Winemaking and all it involves is secondary.