Wine Portfolio

Chris Tynan

Winemaker, Cliff Lede Vineyards

Christopher Tynan’s self-taught, avant-garde approach to winemaking is a style that pays tribute to both tradition and innovation. His exacting philosophy of only employing low-yield vines from select sites, and minimal intervention in the winery, ensures that each bottle expresses the distinct nuances of each site, block, and vintage.

Born in New York and raised in Texas, Christopher Tynan began his wine career in the vineyard, working summers doing irrigation management for vineyards across Napa and Sonoma counties. Following a harvest at Cain Vineyard & Winery in 2004, he was given an opportunity to work the 2005 harvest with the renowned winemaking and viticulture team of Helen Turley and John Wetlaufer at Blankiet Estate in Yountville. In 2006, Christopher became the assistant winemaker at the prestigious Colgin Cellars on Pritchard Hill. At Colgin, Christopher worked closely with Vintner Ann Colgin, Winemaker Allison Tauziet, and Vineyard Manager David Abreu for the next five years. It was here where he learned and embodied the standard for excellence in all aspects of winemaking and viticulture.

In 2012, Christopher was introduced to Cliff Lede by David Abreu and joined the Cliff Lede Vineyards team shortly thereafter. Christopher brings an unmatched passion and fervent attention to detail to the Lede Family Wines team.

Christopher lives in Coombsville with his wife Katie and their black Labrador Bacchus. In his free time Christopher enjoys traveling, cooking, and collecting wine.

Country born: United States

Education: BA English Texas State University

Years in the wine industry: 10-15 years

Winemaking Philosophy:
Great vineyards make great wine.