Wine Portfolio

Jean Hoefliger

Winemaker, S. R. Tonella Cellars

Jean Hoefliger is an artisan inherently driven to push the envelope, continually challenging the cognizance of, not only winemaking, but life in general. With an insatiable appetite for art, philosophy, and a good discussion, Jean thrives when his creativity and passion are left unbound by conventional thinking. Whether in the vineyard, at the winery, home, or around the table with friends - old and new - Jean brings these pursuits alive with playful banter and endearing jokes. In his winemaking, the essence of these experiences is brought to life through a particular craft of winemaking: fundamentally balanced by his experiences in Bordeaux, now left unbridled on the frontier of Napa Valley, making a delectable intersection between the past and future of wine. Jean Hoefliger was born and raised in Switzerland. His initial experience took him from Switzerland to California where he worked at Michel Schlumberger and Hartford Family in Sonoma followed by Bordeaux and South Africa, making wine at the esteemed estates of Chateau Carbonnieux, and Meerlust. Completing a winemaking and viticulture degree at the Swiss federal school of Changins, Jean made his way back to Bordeaux making wine at Chateau Lynch-Bages, and then moving back to California where he has been leading winemaker programs since 2001. Jean’s passion, knowledge, scientific training and innate ability put him in a unique position to take the best grapes around the world and transform them into wines and brands worthy of world class standing.

Country born: Switzerland

Years in the wine industry: 20-30 years

Steve Tonella

Winemaker, S. R. Tonella Cellars

Steve Tonella is a fourth-generation vintner from Rutherford Napa Valley. From a young age Steve learned about viticulture in Rutherford from his father and grandfather. Interest led him to start making wine in the mid 1990s and furthering his knowledge in the viticulture program at UC Davis but most of his knowledge is attributed to great mentors. Steve actively manages all aspects of S. R. Tonella Cellars, especially the estate Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard.

Country born: USA

Education: Viticulture UC Davis

Years in the wine industry: 30+ years

Winemaking Philosophy:
Let the vines do the talking. Wine is made in the vineyard. Our Winemaking ethos is to express the best of vineyard specific terroir in every vintage produced.