Ludovic Dervin

Ludovic Dervin, a seasoned figure in the winemaking industry, has carved a niche for himself as a visionary and innovative winemaker. His journey, beginning in the verdant vineyards of Champagne, France, has led him to the prestigious role of General Manager and Senior Winemaker at Stags’ Leap Winery in Napa Valley. Dervin’s appointment in July 2022 marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career, allowing him to steer the legacy of a winery renowned for its exquisite Napa Valley wines.

From an early age, Dervin was captivated by the nuanced art of winemaking. His childhood in Champagne, filled with playful explorations among the vines and a fascination for the natural world, laid the foundation for his future in enology. His initial academic pursuits in microbiology gradually shifted back to his roots as he recognized his calling in viticulture and enology. Dervin’s formal education in these fields, completed at the University in Reims, was just the beginning of an adventurous and fulfilling career.

Dervin’s professional journey is marked by a deep-seated desire to understand the multifaceted nature of winemaking. His initial experiences post-graduation involved immersing himself in various aspects of the industry, from collaborating with growers to leading winemaking teams. This period of exploration led him to a unique role as a “flying winemaker,” a three-year global odyssey that exposed him to diverse winemaking practices across continents, including stints in Greece, South Africa, and California. This experience enriched his understanding of both Old and New World winemaking techniques.

Settling in California in the mid-1990s, Dervin’s career trajectory saw him contributing to significant projects and brands. He initially joined Remy Martin’s Piper Sonoma as a research enologist, followed by impactful roles at Kendall-Jackson and Hartford Court. Here, he was instrumental in developing high-end offerings, including the initiation of Kendall-Jackson’s Verité program. His tenure at Mumm Napa, starting in 2002, further solidified his reputation as a producer of premium Napa Valley wines, a period marked by international missions enhancing his global winemaking perspective.

Today, at Stags’ Leap Winery, Dervin is committed to upholding and advancing the winery’s esteemed reputation. His approach melds his rich background, global insights, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in winemaking. Dervin’s story is not just about crafting fine wines but also about a deep-seated passion for winemaking that transcends borders and traditions, making him a distinguished name in the world of viticulture and enology.