Maura Johnson

Maura Johnson’s journey into the world of winemaking is a tale of passion, adventure, and dedication that has taken her from the sunny shores of Southern California to the prestigious vineyards of Napa Valley. With a career that spans continents and a profound understanding of viticulture and enology, Maura has become a significant figure in the wine industry, particularly as the winemaker for VASO at Dana Estates Winery.

Raised near the beaches of Southern California, Maura’s initial path seemed far removed from the vineyards that would later define her career. Her journey into winemaking began at the University of California, Davis, where she initially studied Mathematics. It was there that Maura discovered the Viticulture and Enology program, a discipline that perfectly blended her love for science with the allure of hands-on craftsmanship. Graduating in 2010 with a B.S. in Viticulture & Enology and a minor in Managerial Economics, Maura was equipped with not just the technical knowledge but also an understanding of the economic aspects of winemaking.

Maura’s quest for knowledge and experience didn’t stop at the borders of the United States. She ventured abroad, working in some of the world’s most renowned wine regions, including the Barossa Valley in Australia, Pfalz in Germany, and Central Otago in New Zealand. These stints abroad, coupled with seasonal returns to Napa for the Northern Hemisphere harvests at prestigious wineries like Vine Cliff, Silver Oak Cellars, and Duckhorn Wine Company, provided Maura with a diverse and rich foundation. Her international experience, working with over 30 varietals, has given her an unparalleled depth of knowledge and versatility in winemaking.

In 2013, Maura’s career took a significant turn when she joined Miner Family Winery in Napa. Starting as an enologist, she quickly demonstrated her prowess and dedication, earning the position of assistant winemaker within a year. Her growing reputation and skill set eventually led her to Dana Estates Winery in early 2018, where she initially served as assistant winemaker before taking the helm at VASO Cellars in 2023. At VASO, Maura focuses on crafting exquisite Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, bringing her unique vision and meticulous approach to every bottle.

Maura’s passion for winemaking extends beyond her professional endeavors. In 2016, alongside her winemaking partner and husband, Charley Johnson, she founded March Wines. This project was a labor of love focused on Riesling, Maura’s favorite varietal and one she has crafted across the globe. Although March Wines concluded in 2022, it stands as a testament to Maura’s dedication to exploring and pushing the boundaries of winemaking.

Life in Napa Valley for Maura is rich and fulfilling. Alongside her husband and their Giant Great Dane, Hannah, she enjoys a life filled with outdoor adventures, pottery, cooking, yoga, and long walks with Hannah. These activities not only offer a respite from the demands of winemaking but also reflect Maura’s approach to life – one that embraces creativity, balance, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Maura Johnson’s story is not just about the wines she creates but about a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep love for the craft of winemaking. Through her work at VASO and Dana Estates Winery, she continues to contribute to the rich tapestry of Napa Valley’s wine legacy, crafting wines that are celebrated for their quality, complexity, and the story they tell of the land from which they come.