Craig McAllister

Craig McAllister, a name that has become synonymous with the finesse and quality of La Crema wines, is a figure whose journey into winemaking reads like an adventure novel, rich with experiences from around the globe. Born and raised in Christchurch, New Zealand, Craig’s initial two decades in his homeland were followed by a six-year chapter in London, during which his world view and passion for wine significantly expanded. This period of exploration and discovery laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong commitment to the art and science of winemaking.

Craig’s love for cooking, traveling, and the great outdoors naturally steered him toward the wine industry, a field that harmoniously blends these interests. His academic pursuit in this direction led him to Lincoln University in New Zealand, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Viticulture and Enology. This formal education equipped Craig with the technical knowledge and understanding necessary to embark on a global winemaking journey.

Craig’s professional winemaking career is distinguished by its international scope. From the rolling vineyards of New Zealand to the historic estates of Australia, the diverse terroirs of Chile, and the ancient winemaking traditions of Cyprus, Craig’s experiences abroad have imbued him with a profound appreciation for the variety and complexity of global wine culture. Each region offered unique challenges and learning opportunities, enabling Craig to refine his craft and develop a versatile winemaking philosophy.

In 2007, Craig joined the La Crema team as a Harvest Enologist, marking the beginning of a pivotal relationship with the winery. After a stint gaining further experience outside of the United States, he returned to La Crema full-time in 2009, bringing with him a wealth of international winemaking knowledge. Craig’s role at La Crema has seen him oversee the Monterey program and play a significant role in the production of the winery’s Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. His contributions have been instrumental in the development of La Crema’s highly regarded collection of single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines.

Craig’s promotion to head winemaker in 2017 was a testament to his dedication, skill, and visionary approach to winemaking. Under his stewardship, La Crema has continued to produce wines of exceptional quality and character, reflecting the unique terroirs of their vineyard sites. For Craig, winemaking is an ever-evolving journey, marked by the exhilarating rush of harvest, the meticulous process of bottling, and the satisfaction of bringing the wines to market. His continuous pursuit of improvement and excellence is a hallmark of his approach to winemaking.

At the heart of Craig McAllister’s winemaking philosophy is the belief that the best wines are those shared with family and friends over a delicious meal. This ethos reflects a broader understanding of wine not just as a product, but as a conduit for connection, celebration, and shared experiences. Today, Craig resides in Healdsburg with his family, where he continues to draw inspiration from his surroundings and the community he serves.

Craig McAllister’s journey from a curious traveler to a celebrated winemaker underscores the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the wine industry. His story is a reminder that behind every bottle of wine is a person with a passion for crafting something that brings people together, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. Through his work at La Crema, Craig has not only contributed to the winery’s legacy but has also enriched the global tapestry of wine with his dedication, innovation, and spirited approach to winemaking.