Cory Empting

Cory Empting is a prominent figure in the world of winemaking, currently serving as the director of winemaking at Harlan Estate, Bond, and Promontory, all prestigious labels under the Harlan family umbrella. His journey with Harlan Estate began in 2001 when he joined the team as a young intern, rapidly demonstrating his passion and aptitude for the craft. Over the years, Empting’s role evolved significantly, culminating in his appointment as director of winemaking, a position that sees him at the helm of some of Napa Valley’s most acclaimed wines.

Empting’s connection to the land and his deep understanding of terroir have been fundamental to his approach. He often reflects on his early days in St. Helena and how his initial relationship with the land shaped his winemaking philosophy. This connection was further deepened through travels, particularly a transformative trip to Burgundy, where he observed the intimate relationship between people and their vineyards developed over centuries. These experiences have profoundly influenced his winemaking style, which emphasizes the environment’s holistic view, considering not just the vineyards but also the surrounding forests and flora (The Wine Conversation) (The Wine Independent).

At Harlan Estate, Empting has been instrumental in navigating the challenges of transitioning from the founding generation to the next. He worked closely with Bob Levy, the previous director of winemaking, ensuring a smooth handover while continuing to innovate and refine the estate’s winemaking practices. Empting believes in the importance of teamwork and the balance between the unique spark of great places and the people who work with them over generations (The Wine Conversation) (Jancis Robinson).

One of the key aspects of Empting’s tenure has been his focus on vineyard management and sustainable practices. He has overseen significant changes, such as the shift towards earlier harvesting to avoid late-season heat and potential fire risks. This strategy has been particularly vital in recent challenging vintages affected by wildfires. Empting and his team have also embraced dry farming and conservative pruning methods, aiming to achieve better ripeness at an earlier stage. These efforts have not only preserved the quality of the wines but also enhanced their expression of the unique terroir of Harlan Estate (The Wine Independent) (Jancis Robinson).

Empting’s leadership extends beyond winemaking to mentoring the next generation of winemakers at Harlan Estate. He works alongside Will Harlan, the managing director, and other team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. This collaborative approach ensures that the estate remains at the forefront of winemaking innovation while honoring the vision and legacy of its founder, Bill Harlan (The Wine Independent) (Decanter).

Despite the challenges posed by climate change and market dynamics, Empting remains optimistic about the future of Napa Valley and Harlan Estate. He is committed to deepening the understanding of their land and translating it more purely into their wines. His work has already yielded remarkable results, with recent vintages receiving high praise for their balance, complexity, and expression of place. Empting’s dedication to quality and sustainability ensures that Harlan Estate will continue to be a benchmark for excellence in Napa Valley winemaking for years to come (Jancis Robinson) (Decanter).

Cory Empting’s journey from a young intern to a leading winemaker is a testament to his passion, skill, and unwavering commitment to the craft. His work at Harlan Estate not only honors the legacy of its founder but also sets a course for the future, ensuring that the estate continues to produce world-class wines that capture the essence of Napa Valley.