Wine Portfolio

Nils Venge

Winemaker, Envy Wines

Nils began in the Vineyards at Charles Krug as a supervisor in charge of planting operations in 1970, became a co-vineyard Manager in charge of 400 acres at Sterling Vineyards in 1972 and took over as GM of Villa Mount Edan in 1973. Here he made two cabernets (1974 & 1978) that put Villa Mount Edan on the map. In 1976 he purchased the property that is now Saddleback Cellars while still working for others. Between 1982 and 1993 he was in partnership with Dennis Groth of Groth Vineyards and it is here that he became known worldwide for his winemaking skills when Robert Parker Jr. gave him a perfect 100 points for the first ever California wine (1985 Cabernet). It wasn't until 1993 that he focused Saddleback Cellars and became a consultant for other wineries.

Country born: USA

Education: University of Davis - Bachelor's degree in Viticulture with a minor in enology in 1967

Years in the wine industry: 30+ years

Honors / Awards:
First EVER to receive a 100 Points from Robert Parker Jr.
THE KING OF CABERNET!!

Winemaking Philosophy:
Traditional, hand-crafted