Anna Monticelli

In the heart of Napa Valley, where each vine tells a story, Anna Monticelli, a vintner with a passion for crafting exceptional wines, has emerged as a prominent figure in the winemaking realm. Anna’s journey began at the prestigious University of California Davis, where she delved into the intricacies of Viticulture and Enology, setting the stage for a remarkable career.

Her odyssey took a transatlantic turn as she spent a transformative year at the Sorbonne in Paris, France, adding a touch of European finesse to her already burgeoning expertise. Returning to France for the 2000 vintage at Château Cheval-Blanc proved to be a pivotal moment, working alongside Kees Van Leeuwen, a luminary in viticulture and her mentor during this phase.

Anna’s American chapter commenced in the iconic Napa Valley, where she served as the assistant winemaker at Seavey Vineyard, honing her skills. The subsequent five years saw her as the assistant winemaker at Bryant Family Vineyard under the guidance of the esteemed Philippe Melka, further enriching her understanding of the craft.

In 2007, Anna assumed the role of winemaker at Piña Napa Valley, a position that allowed her to showcase her prowess in crafting single-vineyard designate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon wines, as well as her own Ilaria wines. The spectrum of her influence extends to the creation of Stack House and Tether wines, reinforcing her status as a multifaceted artisan.

Anna’s journey isn’t confined to the rolling hills of Napa Valley. Alongside her husband, winemaker Mario Monticelli, they have embarked on Italian winemaking projects in Piedmont, Tuscany, Abruzzo, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. The family, including their three children, frequently travels to Italy, infusing each bottle with a blend of Old World charm and New World innovation.

In every swirl and sip of Anna Monticelli’s wines, there’s a reflection of her rich journey, a narrative that seamlessly weaves together the essence of California and the sophistication of French winemaking traditions. Her commitment to excellence and her diverse portfolio stand as a testament to her artistry, making her a luminary in the world of winemaking.