Bringing Napa to You: The Seven Apart In-Home Wine Experience

For the many who have followed Seven Apart’s journey from afar, devoted fans, and members of our Allocation List, visiting our Napa estate often remains an aspiration—a vision of winding mountain roads, volcanic soils, and handcrafted wines waiting at the peak. While some journeys may be postponed, the desire to experience our wines need not be. Seven Apart’s in-home tasting experience was designed to bridge the miles between Napa Valley and your doorstep, creating an unforgettable evening that lets you savor Napa at its finest—wherever you may be.

Napa’s Essence, Delivered to You

As an alternative to a luxurious Napa experience, consider an intimate gathering in a New York loft with floor-to-ceiling windows revealing the city lights and an elegant table set for ten. As each glass is poured, our expert host guides you and your guests through the tasting journey, sharing stories of Atlas Peak’s rugged terrain and the painstaking methods used to handcraft each vintage. The air is filled with the warmth of laughter and the aromas of finely curated cheeses paired with Seven Apart’s Shale and Basalt Cabernets. Though far from the slopes of Stags Ridge, the evening captures the spirit of Napa in each sip, bringing you closer to the heart of our wines.

For others, the setting is simpler yet equally captivating—a family kitchen in Texas with an inviting spread of charcuterie on the counter. Here, the experience is intimate and relaxed, a chance for friends to share the stories behind each bottle. With glasses in hand, guests listen to the tale of how Seven Apart’s Summit Cabernet, sourced from vines perched above the valley floor, carries the rich, volcanic character of its origin. Together, they sip and savor, immersing themselves in the history, craftsmanship, and taste of a place they’ve longed to visit.

An Experience Crafted for You

Each in-home tasting experience is uniquely tailored to the setting and the host’s vision, whether it’s a formal sit-down dinner for twelve or a casual evening with hors d’oeuvres passed among friends. While no two gatherings are alike, every event is united by a dedication to authenticity. With our world-class wine and the personal insights shared by our team, we aim to recreate the sophistication of our Napa Valley experience in every possible detail.

Our in-home tastings are a way to bring the Seven Apart experience closer to those who may not yet have walked our vineyard paths. We’ve hosted these intimate gatherings across Texas, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, and Southern California, among other locales. For every tasting, the goal is the same: to connect you with our wines in a way that is both personal and memorable, allowing you and your guests to discover the terroir, the story, and the artistry behind every pour.

An Unforgettable Gift for Memorable Moments

These tastings also offer a one-of-a-kind gift experience, perfect for families, friends, or clients. Hosting a Seven Apart tasting isn’t just about enjoying great wine; it’s about sharing an experience that resonates deeper, bringing people together in the spirit of discovery and celebration. For clients or colleagues, it becomes an elevated yet approachable way to share something truly rare. For family and friends, it’s an invitation to make memories while exploring the flavors of Napa Valley’s Atlas Peak.

Whether in the quiet glow of a private cellar or around a kitchen counter brimming with camaraderie, Seven Apart’s in-home tastings bring the mountain-grown essence of our wines to your table. Through these experiences, we extend a hand from Napa, inviting you to savor a story that began millions of years ago and continues with every glass.

Peak Performance: 2024 Harvest Begins

The snip-snip-snip of secateurs. The smell of diesel as tractors ferrying countless lug boxes travel to and from the vineyard. The heady taste of fermenting grapes, practically palatable in the air. In the vineyard, deft hands work with practiced precision, selecting only the most perfect clusters. Laughter and calls in Spanish and English mingle with the rustle of leaves, creating a melody unique to this time of year. This is harvest at Seven Apart – a time when months of meticulous care culminate in a frenzy of activity, each decision crucial in the crafting of our world-class Cabernet Sauvignon.

Amidst this whirlwind of activity, early indications suggest that the 2024 vintage may be one for the books. We managed to catch a moment with our winemaker, Morgan Maureze, between his constant shuttling from vine to cellar, to get his insights on what’s shaping up to be an exceptional harvest at Seven Apart.

A Textbook Perfect Season

Summer 2024 was a record-breaking hot summer. Luckily, the weather has cooled enough and given the Golden State an excellent crop. Morgan begins by reflecting on the season’s progression: “Generous winter rains and a fantastic spring set us up for a textbook Napa Valley growing season.” According to him, the summer has been particularly pleasant, with perfect weather – hot days and cool nights – allowing the grapes to develop beautifully through veraison.

“The first week of September brought a warm spell, with temperatures in the low 100s, which gave our reds the push they needed. It helped ripen most of the fruit on the valley floor to perfection. So far, everything looks incredibly promising.”.

Morgan explains that the vineyards have been spared from excessive heat spikes and cold snaps that often complicate the delicate balance of grape development. This consistent, ideal weather pattern has allowed for steady, even ripening across all varieties, setting the stage for an exceptional vintage.

Of course, while Mother Nature has provided near-perfect conditions this year, the Seven Apart team hasn’t rested on its laurels. Morgan and his team have implemented specific viticultural practices to further enhance the quality of our Cabernet Sauvignon. “We monitored pruning a little closer to ensure better vine balance, as well as fruit thinning to enhance fruit quality and vine health,” he explains.

These practices, combined with the favorable weather conditions, have resulted in smaller berries – a promising sign for producing highly concentrated wines. As Morgan puts it, “Right now things are looking good with smaller berries to hopefully produce higher concentrated wines. The season is not over yet, so things can still change.”

From Valley to Ridge

At Seven Apart, our unique position straddling both high-elevation and valley floor vineyards offers us a unique opportunity during harvest time. Morgan explains the dichotomy: “As there is such a difference in elevation, there is a difference of several weeks in vine physiology growth patterns. Normally it is warmer at our Base Camp vineyard (valley floor) than it is up in the higher elevation site of Stag’s Ridge. So we tend to pick Base Camp first then finish our harvest up on Stags Ridge.”

This staggered harvesting schedule allows our team to give each vineyard block the individualized attention it deserves. It’s a bit of a waiting game for each parcel to reach its peak potential before bringing the fruit in, but it also allows for grapes with different flavor and texture profiles.

The 2024 harvest is also particularly exciting as it marks a significant milestone for our newly replanted Base Camp vineyard. “I’m already starting to mentally map out the picks from different sections of the block,” shares Morgan. Meanwhile, up at Stags Ridge Vineyard, perched at 1,475 feet above sea level, the older vines continue to showcase their prowess. “I’m excited to see the old vines do what they do best, and that is producing high-quality fruit,” Morgan notes. “What’s particularly intriguing this year is our exploration of the natural sub-blocks within Stags Ridge. We’re identifying areas with subtle soil variations and planning smaller, focused fermentations to really capture those nuanced differences. It’s all about highlighting the unique characteristics of our terroir in the final wine.”

Early Impressions and Future Potential

While it’s still early days, the initial signs are incredibly promising. “The white wines are very pleasant and fermentations smell great,” Morgan shares. “The red grapes just finished veraison a few weeks ago, so it’s still too early to tell, but I’m happy with the berry sizes.”

When asked about how the 2024 vintage might express itself in our four wines – Seven Apart Expedition, Seven Apart Shale, Seven Apart Basalt, and Seven Apart Summit – Morgan emphasizes the need for patience. “It is still very early to tell. The growing season has been great, but once we put the fruit in the fermenters and start the fermentation, that’s when we will see the true potential of the vintage. So patience is key, and hoping for good weather.”

As we look ahead to the completion of the 2024 harvest, there’s a sense of quiet confidence among the Seven Apart team. This harvest represents more than just another vintage. It’s a culmination of years of hard work, a testament to the resilience of our vines, and a promise of the exceptional wines to come. As Morgan and his team work tirelessly to bring in the fruit and guide it through the initial stages of winemaking, we invite you to join us in anticipation of what may be one of Seven Apart’s most extraordinary vintages yet

Reaching New Heights | 2022 Seven Apart Expedition Cabernet Sauvignon Release

In the rugged terrain of Atlas Peak, a group of intrepid explorers set out on a mission. With eyes wide open and curious minds, they ventured forth, unafraid to tread the path less beaten. They scaled the steep slopes of a mountainous vineyard, their feet crunching on the volcanic soils below, their hands carefully examining clusters of grapes that had thrived in this challenging environment.

It’s from this adventurous spirit that our Seven Apart Expedition wine was born and named. For those just embarking on their Seven Apart journey or already well on their way alongside us, Seven Apart Expedition is where it all begins. A blend of valley floor richness and high-elevation finesse, this Cabernet Sauvignon blend offers an accessible yet complex spectrum of flavors and textures.

Now, as we unveil the 2022 Seven Apart Expedition, we invite you to join us on this continuing exploration to discover the nuances that make this latest vintage truly exceptional.

A Journey Through Time

The Seven Apart Expedition holds a special place in our hearts. It is the only wine in our collection that has graced every vintage since Seven Apart’s inception. Even in 2020, when the Glass Fire threatened Napa Valley and caused smoke taint to much of the region’s harvest, the Seven Apart Expedition rose like a phoenix. Our team had completed the harvest from our Base Camp vineyard before the fires arrived, allowing us to craft a Seven Apart Expedition wine that year (in reduced quantities due to no fruit being used from the Stags Ridge vineyard). This 2022 release marks the fifth chapter in the Seven Apart Expedition’s storied lineage, each bottle a testament to the dedication and skill of our winemaking team.

Morgan Maureze, our winemaker, reflects on what makes this wine so unique: “The Seven Apart Expedition is particularly special because it represents the beginning of a journey. We have endless possibilities for the blend, creating a wine from two very different and exceptional locations. The result is a harmonious wine that beautifully showcases the characteristics of both vineyards, resulting in a uniquely complex experience.”

Rich, Ripe Fruit

Our Seven Apart Expedition bottling highlights the quality of the vintage, with fruit from our estate vineyards—Stags Ridge and Base Camp—and our partner growers. Following the 2021 harvest, we embarked on a significant replanting of the Base Camp vineyard, a project that will enhance the long-term quality of our wines. During this period, from 2022 through 2025, we’ve relied on select fruit from our trusted partner growers to maintain the exceptional standards of our Seven Apart Expedition blend. This collaboration ensures that, even as we nurture our new vines, the Seven Apart Expedition continues to deliver a wine with a perfect balance of valley floor richness and high-elevation finesse.

While Stags Ridge vineyard is composed mostly of solid red volcanic rock, Base Camp has been recently replanted, adhering to strict organic farming practices and will be certified within three years. These different terroirs allow Morgan and Cellar Master Jorge Lopez to actively pick and choose the parcels of fruit they want to include in the final blend.

Of course, growing the fruit during the 2022 season was no small feat. A dry winter gave way to a spring touched by frost, followed by a summer of extreme heat. These conditions naturally led to smaller berries and lower yields, with fruit ripening earlier than in typical years.

Yet, as often happens in viticulture, challenging conditions can bring out the best in extreme mountain-grown Cabernet. Morgan notes, “These weather patterns allowed the grapes to develop rich, ripe fruit profiles throughout the valley. Blending the 2022 Seven Apart Expedition led to a wine with a perfect balance of valley floor richness and higher elevation generosity, yet with finessed ripeness.”

A Powerhouse Trio

While all Seven Apart wines are predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, the Seven Apart Expedition tends to draw a little outside the lines. While past vintages have included small percentages of Merlot, the 2022 Seven Apart Expedition is a masterful blend of only three varieties: 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot.

“While you might not think the smaller percentages of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot make much of a difference, they are the real secret to the sauce,” explains Morgan. “Where Cabernet Franc adds aromatic complexity and a hint of herbal freshness, Petit Verdot injects a dark inky color, taking it to the next level.”

Our meticulous winemaking process begins with hand-harvesting at night, ensuring the grapes arrive at the winery cold to minimize oxidation. Slow fermentation at cool temperatures preserves the wine’s delicate aromas, followed by malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels for softness and stability.

After 18 months of aging in 74% new French oak, the wine emerges as a true expression of its terroir.
Morgan shares an interesting insight into the Seven Apart Expedition’s unique character: “One aspect that sets Seven Apart Expedition apart from our single vineyard wines such as Seven Apart Basalt and Seven Apart Shale is its tannin structure, which allows for earlier bottling as the wine is more approachable.”

A Sensory Journey

While this vintage bears the signature of our former winemaker, Andy Erickson, Morgan Maureze played a crucial role in its final composition. Morgan explains, “I wanted Andy to participate in the blending sessions with us for several reasons. Firstly, these wines are like his children, and I wanted him to see them through to completion. Secondly, he knew these wines intimately, having watched them evolve and age. His vision for their direction was invaluable.”

This collaborative approach ensured a seamless transition and a deeper understanding of the wines, the vineyards, and the vision that makes Seven Apart unique. The result is a sensory delight. The Seven Apart Expedition’s deep red color with violet hues at the rim hints at the complexity within. Intense aromas of ripe black cherries, summer strawberries, and milk chocolate mingle with fresh plum skin, toasted fennel seed, and graphite.

On the palate, the wine greets you with soft, lush tannins balanced by well-integrated acidity. There is a rush of flavors on the palate, including well-integrated oak, cocoa nib, vanilla, black licorice, bay leaf, and black currant. The texture is incredibly fine-grained and silky, while the fruit at the wine’s core expands and lengthens on the finish.

This youthful wine offers immediate pleasure but also promises rewarding development with age. It’s approachable upon release, especially with an hour of decanting. However, those with a little more patience will find that cellaring for 5-8 years will reveal a slightly developed bottle bouquet. The wine has the potential to age gracefully for 25 years or more.

With only 740 cases produced, availability is exclusive to members of our Seven Apart allocation list. As always, we invite you to join us on this journey and enjoy Napa at its peak.

Meet Seven Apart’s Cellar Master, Jorge Lopez

In the realm of winemaking, Cellar Master is about as apt a term as could be, as true mastery of the cellar is required. Come rain or shine, a Cellar Master oversees fermentation, manages barrel aging, conducts meticulous blending trials, and ensures impeccable quality control. Their expertise extends beyond the cellar walls, often reaching back to the vineyard to align grape selection with the winemaker’s goals. A Cellar Master’s refined palate, technical knowledge, and ability to nurture a wine’s potential are the bedrock of exceptional winemaking. It’s a relentless role that demands precision, intuition, and dedication with every step. In Jorge Lopez, Seven Apart’s Cellar Master, we find someone who truly embodies the ‘Master’ in his title. This is his story.

A Humble Beginning

Jorge’s story begins far from the rolling hills of Napa Valley. Born in Zamora, Mexico, and raised in Atacheo, Michoacan, he arrived in Napa as a 15-year-old in 1998. “My first job was at Wapo bar in Calistoga as a dishwasher,” Jorge recalls, painting a picture of his modest start.

It was only five years later, in 2003, that Jorge’s true calling began to take shape. He started working in the vineyard with renowned viticulturist David Abreu, an experience that would prove transformative. The name David Abreu carries significant weight in Napa Valley viticulture. By the late 1990s, Abreu had established himself as one of the premier viticulturists in the region, cultivating grapes for an impressive roster of elite wineries. “I worked with him for 10 years from 2003 to 2013 on vineyards such as Screaming Eagle, Sloan, Ovid, Marciano Estate, Harlan, Colgin, Pahlmeyer,” Jorge shares. “That’s when I started to learn about grapes and the process.”

From Vines to Wines

Jorge’s dedication and work ethic didn’t go unnoticed. His path crossed with former Seven Apart winemaker Andy Erickson and his team during harvest seasons. Jessica Tarpy, a member of Andy’s team, recognized Jorge’s potential. “Jessica saw the motivation I had and also saw I was hard-working,” Jorge explains. “When there was an opening for a job, she decided to call me and give me an opportunity to work with Andy and his team.”

This opportunity marked the beginning of a decade-long journey with Andy Erickson, from 2013 to 2023. During this time, Jorge honed his skills on various prestigious projects, including Favia, Marciano Estate, Dancing Hares, and Arietta. It was in 2019 that Jorge’s path intersected with Seven Apart, marking the start of a new chapter in his career.

A Season For Seven Apart

When asked about what led him to join Seven Apart as the Cellar Master, Jorge’s response reflects both his experience and the seamless transition: “I was Cellar Master for Favia. When Seven Apart and Favia started to work together, Yannick and Andy also decided to give me the title with Seven Apart, for which I am very grateful.”

These days, Jorge’s role as Seven Apart’s Cellar Master requires as much mastery as it sounds.
“A typical day for me at Seven Apart is to start looking around the winery and check if there is anything wrong or looks out of place,” he explains. “I also check to make sure everything is clean and tidy when I walk through the door.”

But no two days are alike in the world of winemaking. “There are different tasks that I need to do throughout the day,” Jorge explains. “Some days I’m working with the wine in the cellar, and other days I’m out in the vineyard, putting my years of experience to use.”

Jorge’s role extends beyond the cellar walls, drawing on his extensive background in viticulture. “When I’m in the vineyard, I’m doing cluster counts, checking on vine health, and inspecting the work completed by our vineyard management team,” he elaborates. “I provide feedback based on what I see. After all, that’s where my journey began, and I know how crucial this stage is for producing exceptional wine.”

This versatility is part of what Jorge loves about his role. “My favorite part of being a Cellar Master at Seven Apart is that I am surrounded by amazing people,” he shares. “I like to see the process of how the wine is made from the grape to the wine that people drink at home. I also am learning something new every day, whether it is on the grapes or the wine itself.”

A Spirit of Collaboration

At the heart of Seven Apart’s success is the strong working relationship between Jorge and winemaker Morgan Maureze. “I work with Morgan very closely. Most of the time me and him do the work together,” Jorge explains. Their connection goes beyond mere colleagues: “We have known each other before working at Seven Apart… I see him as a friend and not just a coworker.”

This collaborative spirit extends to how Jorge views his role within the larger Seven Apart team. “I see my role contributing to the overall quality and character of Seven Apart wine because I am the one charged to make all the work that is necessary for the wine with the directions and approval of Morgan.”

When asked about his winemaking philosophy, Jorge’s response is deeply rooted in the satisfaction of seeing a project through from start to finish. “I love seeing the entire process, from a young grapevine to the final harvest where it transforms into wine,” Jorge reflects. “It brings me joy to know that all the hard work we put into the wine culminates in a product people can taste and appreciate. It’s a beautiful collaboration between nature and our team. What’s truly amazing is how our creation is shared not just here in Napa Valley, but around the world.”

This philosophy is evident in what Jorge considers his most memorable achievement at Seven Apart: “My first harvest stands out the most,” he shares with pride. “Witnessing the entire process unfold, from the initial grape selection to the final product, was truly special. Seeing our team’s hard work transform into something so beautiful left me feeling both elated and honored to be part of that harvest. It was a moment that encapsulated everything I love about winemaking.”

10,000 Hours

Of course, as with all journeys, Jorge’s hasn’t been without its challenges. “A particular challenge that I face in my role is the language barrier, it has always been hard to communicate with fellow workers,” he admits. “I have very minimal education and all the knowledge I have comes from the experiences that I have encountered and seen happen.”

But true to his character, Jorge has faced these challenges head-on. “I overcame it by working really hard and putting my full attention to everything to make sure it is right,” he says, demonstrating the dedication that has brought him to where he is today.

As for the future of Seven Apart wines, Jorge’s vision is both ambitious and heartfelt. “My vision for the future of Seven Apart wines is that it becomes one of the best wines of the Napa Valley and one of the best in the world,” he shares. “I want our wines to create such an impression that when people taste them, they’re inspired to visit our winery and experience firsthand where this exceptional product is born.”

They say it takes 10,000 hours to become a master performer in a given field. For Jorge, despite having easily surpassed that hour threshold long ago, his journey as a Cellar Master continues. And that’s exactly what sets him – and his wines – apart.

The Details Make The Difference: The Seven Apart Visitor Experience

Quality is the outcome of the million little decisions we make every day. It is about intention, dedication, and passion. One such decision is our visitor experience.

Our hospitality facility, officially opened on October 1, 2021, aims to redefine the traditional winery experience. Seven Apart is different from your typical tasting room; we’re not open to the public. Instead, we have created a personalized journey reserved for our esteemed allocation list members and select referrals from trusted partners in the valley. Whether you are planning your next member visit or are curious about the benefits your allocation membership will offer, join Managing Partner Yannick Girardo as he takes you behind the scenes of our one-of-a-kind Seven Apart visitor experience.

A Members-Only Tasting Experience

“While we would love to welcome all members of the public, intimacy and quality of the experience are paramount,” opens Yannick. “As a small but dynamic team, we work hard to tailor the experience to each visitor.”

Prior reservations are essential to ensure every guest receives the dedicated attention and service that defines the Seven Apart experience. “Due to the small nature of our production and the guest capacity we can host daily, we aren’t able to simply have people stop by and visit,” Yannick clarifies.

Of course, we understand the importance of fostering new relationships and sharing the Seven Apart experience with a select group of wine enthusiasts. To accommodate this, we have recently begun collaborating with our trusted network of partner wineries and private drivers to extend invitations to referred guests. “Word of mouth and concierges in the valley is another way to host clients that have never heard from us before,” adds Yannick.

What To Expect: The Tasting Experience

Upon arrival, visitors are treated to a tour of the Base Camp Vineyard, a detailed recount of the property’s rich history, and a guided tasting of the estate’s wines. “Our sessions are designed to immerse guests in our world, allowing them to savor our Seven Apart Base Camp™ Sauvignon Blanc (a tasting room exclusive) and four of our Cabernet Sauvignons,” Yannick shares. Complementing the wines is a carefully curated cheese pairing, enhancing the flavors and enriching the experience of the wine. “We spend an average of two hours with each guest while they are at the estate.”

As firm believers that one-on-one attention is critical to creating unforgettable experiences, Yannick explains that the hospitality team prefers to host each member individually rather than combining visitors into groups. This undivided attention not only aligns with the privacy of our estate but also fosters long-lasting relationships.

What Does a Visit to Seven Apart Cost?

At Seven Apart, we believe that exceptional experiences are worth investing in. A visit to our winery includes a personalized tour, guided tasting, and carefully curated cheese pairings. This immersive experience reflects the meticulous care and attention that goes into every step of our winemaking process. Our wine prices range from $185 to $295 per bottle. Guests have the opportunity to purchase wines directly following their tasting experience. For specific details about your visit, including any applicable fees or member benefits, please contact our hospitality team directly.

What Sets The Experience Apart?

At Seven Apart, we strive to create a truly memorable visit for each of our guests. Managing Partner Yannick Girardo emphasizes four key elements that define our approach: education, knowledge, service, and hospitality. “These elements are the core of a successful experience,” Yannick explains. “We are extremely fortunate to have these four aspects embodied by our estate hosts, Juliana and Catie.”

But it’s not just about the technical aspects of the experience; being personable is equally crucial. “Having the eye for detail and understanding your clientele is something that can’t be taught,” Yannick adds. Our team is skilled at reading clients and understanding their needs, interests, engagement, and expectations.

This ability to connect on a personal level sets us apart. The experience continues even after the visit concludes; we maintain detailed internal notes to ensure that each repeat member’s experience is flawless, regardless of whether Juliana, Catie, or Yannick himself hosts them. “Having details such as dietary restrictions, spouse and kids names, where our member might hail from, what industry they might be in or hobby interest, all of these details will allow each one of us to engage with them on a personal level,” Yannick emphasizes. “The details that make the difference.”

Looking Ahead

As we continue to refine and enhance the Seven Apart visitor experience, we’re excited about the potential for incorporating new elements from our estate. “I hope that down the road, we can incorporate some of our olive oil as part of the experience,” shares Yannick. “We won’t be producing a whole lot. We have 35 trees and will be doing our first harvest this year. Something special from our property to add on.”

But our plans continue. We’re also exploring the possibility of introducing a beehive to our estate to produce a small amount of honey to replace the jam condiment we’ve used in the past. “Based on the season, we have had some fig, cherry, and quince jam,” Yannick explains.

These additions to the Seven Apart experience are part of our commitment to a “farm to table” philosophy, where we showcase the bounty of our estate in every aspect of our visitors’ journey. However, we recognize that these things take time and patience to implement. “Like anything else, it takes time and patience to get these elements to be part of the experience,” Yannick notes.

But, if you ask us, it is all worth the wait.

All visits are by appointment only; however, priority will be given to our active allocation members.

Click here to book.

Not a Member? Click this link to join our allocation list. You will receive a guaranteed allocation of our wines upon release. Once you become an active member, you can visit our winery and reserve a tasting. The Seven Apart Hospitality Facility welcomes guests seven days a week, excluding holidays. We offer experiences between 10 am and 3 pm to ensure each visit receives our full attention and care.

Seven Apart Announces New Head Winemaker

NAPA VALLEY, Calif. – Seven Apart Winery is pleased to announce that Morgan Maurèze has been named new head winemaker. Seven Apart entered the Napa Cabernet fray in 2018 with legendary winemaker Andy Erickson leading the production of the first vintages for the winery. Maurèze has worked with Erickson for 15 years refining his expertise, but his training started in his childhood.

Born in France, Maurèze’s parents both have a long lineage of winemakers. He is a fifth-generation winemaker on his father’s side and third on his mother’s. From a young age, Maurèze knew he wanted to work in the industry and had several impactful internships at Dominus Estate before attending UC Davis, earning a degree in viticulture and oenology. He continued his formal training at the University of Bordeaux – learning new and old-world techniques while also working at Château Petrus, Château Haut-Brion and Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and others. Maurèze’s career took off in Napa Valley when he began assisting Erickson at several estates including Arietta Wines, Dalle Valle, Ovid, Screaming Eagle and Marciano Estate.

“Andy truly helped us establish Seven Apart as the world-class winery we aim to be, and he did it with gusto,” said Yannick Girardo, managing partner at Seven Apart. “When Andy turned his focus to his own wine brand, Favia, we knew Morgan was an excellent steward to pass the baton to. They have similar styles of winemaking and Morgan will continue to evolve Andy’s vision while letting the harvests dictate the vintages.”

“I appreciate that people think that when there is a change in winemakers, there will be a change in styles – that’s not going to be the case here,” said Maurèze. “Similar to Andy’s, my approach is to keep things simple and express the vintage delicately, not force it to be something it’s not.”

Maurèze is dedicated to closely monitoring the vineyards and honoring how special they are. Seven Apart’s Stags Ridge vineyard sits 1,475 feet high on Atlas Peak, an elevation that only a few of Napa’s elite vineyards reap the benefits of. This vineyard has a prolific history of producing award-winning wines. With its unique exposure and orientation, it has the optimal conditions for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The soil is mostly red volcanic clay with little moisture and the vines date back to 1999, nothing has been replanted, it produces small berries rich in color and tannins. These elements combine to make Stags Ridge a sought-after gem.

In addition to Stags Ridge, Seven Apart has a world-class winery at the base of Atlas Peak at the intersection of Silverado Trail and Soda Canyon Road. The base camp vineyard sits seven miles away from the Stags Ridge Vineyard.

While Maurèze worked closely with Erickson on finalizing and blending the 2022 vintages, the 2023 Seven Apart Expedition™, slated to be released in September 2025, will be the first release solely under his helm. For those looking to be the first to enjoy this wine, it will be available through the winery’s allocation list.

We welcome our visitors to its state-of-the-art production facility and hospitality building that features modern touches and luxury amenities. Located on a beautiful site tucked between the vineyard, with a 360-degree view that shows off the Mayacamas range to the west, the Vaca range on the east and Mount St. Helena facing north.

The Dreambuilder | Meet Seven Apart’s Managing Partner Yannick Girardo

WANTED:

• Someone who isn’t afraid to get their hands dirty (or quite literally stained purple when it comes to winemaking).
• At the same time, this individual must also exude effortless charm in a crisp suit, skillfully navigate diverse clientele, and possess the expertise to open a bottle of Cabernet while simultaneously explaining the terroir from which it was made.
• They also need to connect with the team on a human level, fostering loyalty and genuine camaraderie.

Sound like the dream employee? That’s because it is. Someone you can confidently entrust with the reins, knowing they’ll guide the company to greater heights, not ride it off into oblivion. At Seven Apart, we’re fortunate to have this very person in our Managing Partner, Yannick Girardo. Whether you know him as a jack-of-all-trades, a man of many hats, or simply as the heartbeat of Seven Apart, Yannick is the cornerstone of our winery’s success. As part of the team since its inception, it’s with no further ado that we introduce him.

Nice Beginnings

A native of France, Yannick was born and raised in the postcard-perfect town of Nice along the French Riviera. “I’m French by birth, Italian by blood. My father’s side is from Cuneo, Italy, and even my mom’s grandparents were Italian,” opens Yannick. “Perhaps this blend of French finesse and Italian passion for gastronomy inevitably guided me towards a career that celebrated both,” he muses.
With a head and heart for hospitality, Yannick’s first job was working in prestigious locations such as the Hotel de Paris and The Monte Carlo Beach Hotel in Monaco. Soon, his quest for broader experiences took him across the Atlantic to the United States in 2002, where he honed his skills in a French restaurant in Houston, Texas. The journey continued with an adventurous stint in French Polynesia, managing service on a yacht. “Navigating through the islands of French Polynesia refined my skills in luxury hospitality and deepened my love for unique culinary experiences,” Yannick recounts.
Returning to the U.S., Yannick’s path took him to Tulsa University, followed by a pivotal move to New York City where he joined Restaurant Daniel as Assistant General Manager. “New York was a rigorous test of my abilities and helped solidify my management style,” he says. In 2011, life’s currents steered him to Napa Valley, where he initially managed the Food & Beverage department at Auberge du Soleil, eventually getting his first sip of the wine industry at Grgich Hills Estate. “After all those years in Napa, the wine calling happened,” he laughs.
At Grgich Hills, Yannick worked his way from Hospitality Manager to Director of DTC & Marketing. “My years at Grgich Hills were transformative, offering me a deep dive into the wine industry and preparing me for the next chapter of my career,” he shares.

The Next Chapter

As all great stories go, Yannick begins: “One day, a friend called.” His long-time friend explained that he was working on a project with Seven Apart founder Don and invited him to meet for a chat. “I initially declined to meet with Don, but my persistent friend (to whom I’m forever grateful) convinced me to share just a coffee with him.”
That coffee meeting unfolded into something larger than Yannick had anticipated. Captivated by Don’s vision and the raw potential of a large dirt plot that would soon transform into a thriving vineyard, Yannick found the lure of building something from the ground up irresistible. In 2019, he made the leap, leaving Grgich Hills to oversee the fledgling brand’s day-to-day operations as General Manager at Seven Apart.
His dedication and alignment with Don’s vision swiftly propelled him into a deeper role. “After three years of intense collaboration and the successful launch of Seven Apart, Don offered me a partnership. I am forever grateful to him for allowing me to accomplish his dreams and giving me the chance to dream myself as well,” Yannick shares.

A Day In The Life

These days, a typical day for Yannick involves “a mix of everything (aside from making the actual wine).” From hosting guests at the estate and managing logistics for wine shipments to traveling for private events and supporting markets in five states, no two days are alike. He is deeply involved in every phase of production, participating in blending sessions, strategizing with the winemaking team about upcoming bottlings, and planning the vineyard’s growing seasons with his team. “We’re constantly aligning our strategies to enhance the visibility and messaging of Seven Apart,” he says.
Weekly meetings with co-founder Don and the marketing team ensure that the winery’s operations are seamless and its narrative resonant. Even amid these tasks, Yannick finds time to personally greet and get to know the visitors to the estate. “I love to meet everyone that will be visiting our estate and get a chance to know them,” he shares. Behind the scenes, his days are also filled with essential administrative work and diligent follow-ups, ensuring the winery operates without a hitch. Yannick credits his team for the smooth operation, noting, “The dedication and passion of our team are vital. Their support and camaraderie drive our success and keep us moving forward.”
Of course, building a winery and brand from the ground up is not without its fair share of challenges. “Yes, there have been a few curveballs and learning steps that we had to deal with,” he says. One such instance involved obtaining permits for an extension to the hospitality building. Understanding complex regulations, like water use restrictions and erosion control measures, presented unforeseen challenges. “Learning the process of implementing a vineyard as we did on Base Camp was an exciting journey,” Yannick explains. He describes collaborating with geologists to identify suitable rootstock and with engineers to ensure proper erosion control plans—all crucial steps for a thriving vineyard.
Perhaps the most significant challenge arose in 2020. Just after completing the production building, Napa County instituted a near-total lockdown due to the pandemic. This delayed crucial inspections and pushed back construction of the hospitality building by a year. Launching a new winery in such a competitive landscape presented another hurdle. “Raising awareness and throwing ourselves in the mix of a well-established industry is a challenge of its own,” Yannick acknowledges. As if that weren’t enough, wildfires later that year added another layer of complexity. “We experienced a lot over the course of the last five years,” Yannick reflects, “but if anything, that made us more resilient.”

There’s Still A Lot Of Work To Be Done

Looking ahead, Yannick emphasizes education and awareness as key to Seven Apart’s future. “We are so new,” he acknowledges, “there’s a lot of work to be done.” According to Yannick, the secret to success is the team. “We are a tight team,” Yannick explains, emphasizing the communal spirit that propels the winery.
“I work closely with winemaker Morgan. His passion and attention to detail are unparalleled. Jorge, another key team member and Cellar Master, has been with Seven Apart from the start. Our estate ambassadors, Juliana and Catie, who have been with us for two and one year, respectively, along with Lee Ann, who manages our accounting, and Augustin, our landscaper, complete our core team. You might start seeing a pattern here, there are seven of us on site!”
Yannick also recognizes the evolving consumer landscape and the need to stay engaged with their audience beyond the winery. One exciting possibility is hosting intimate wine dinner events, both at the estate and at members’ homes. These gatherings will provide a platform to showcase Seven Apart’s maturing vintages in a unique way. Reflecting on his contributions to Seven Apart, Yannick beams with pride. “Building and launching a brand from A to Z has been an amazing experience,” he says. The opportunity to share Seven Apart’s story and wines with new guests is a constant source of satisfaction for him.

I’ll Drink To That

Away from the vineyards, Yannick cherishes his downtime, which he spends surrounded by family. “I love to spend time with my wife and kids, attending their sports activities and enjoying our moments together as they grow,” he shares. Balancing his family life with personal health, he stays active, often playing basketball with his children to keep fit.
As for the future, Yannick is ambitious, both for his family and Seven Apart. “I would like to see Seven Apart recognized as an iconic name globally,” he says, envisioning a future where Seven Apart’s wines are celebrated worldwide. He dreams of a balanced life between his native French Riviera and Napa, reflecting, “Wouldn’t it be nice to spend 6 months a year on the French Riviera and 6 months in Napa? I will definitely drink to that.”

Welcome Our New Vineyard Manager, Domenick Bianco

While the trope “great wines start in the vineyard” holds true, it follows that someone must be great in the vineyard to make great wines. For the past few years, our vines have thrived largely thanks to a strong, ongoing relationship with Michael Wolf Vineyard Services. In 2022, Michael sold his business to his successor, the established viticulturist Domenick Bianco. Domenick shares Michael’s meticulous nature, practical experience in the field, and respect for the land, making him a natural fit for Seven Apart. Without further ado, allow us to introduce Domenick, who now takes the helm on our ongoing journey to greatness.

From Law Books to Vine Rows

Describing himself as an “authentic, driven, and humble” individual, Domenick is a Californian native, born in the Central Valley and later moving to Napa. Unlike many in the viticulture world, his path to the vineyard wasn’t paved with textbooks. Though he initially pursued a degree in history at UC Davis with an eye on law school, a fortuitous late-semester class in viticulture and enology sparked a passion that would redefine his career. Graduating in 2008, Domenick opted for the rows of vines over files of legal books. But perhaps this shouldn’t have come as too much of a surprise for Domenick, as one might say farming flows in his blood.

“I’ve been around vines as far back as I can remember. My great-grandfather founded a table grape company in the Central Valley, which my grandfather eventually took over. So, thanks to this family legacy, my father introduced me to vineyards at a young age. I hold many fond memories of accompanying my dad to work and traveling to various vineyards.”

His true passion was ignited during his first internship at Etude Winery, just after graduating. “The work immediately made sense to me,” Domenick explains. “I loved the physical side of it, mixed with the attention to detail and focus.”

This initial foray was followed by another internship with a Napa vineyard manager, solidifying his desire to pursue a career in viticulture. “I’ve never looked back,” he shares. “I so value the connection viticulture offers – to the land, the seasons, and to people.”

A Budding Businessman

Domenick spent his formative years working for a Napa vineyard manager. This experience proved to be a springboard. About six years into his career, the esteemed Kathryn Hall Winery sought his skills to enhance their estate vineyards and grower program. This role proved pivotal, granting him invaluable exposure to a vast swathe of California’s viticultural landscape. “The role at Kathryn Hall introduced me to almost all of the growing regions in California and into Oregon,” he explains. Domenick’s purview encompassed vineyards in Sonoma, Napa, Anderson Valley, the Sierra Foothills, Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and the Santa Lucia Highlands.

After several enriching years at Kathryn Hall, the storied Joseph Phelps Vineyards offered Domenick the opportunity to oversee their Napa and Sonoma estates. This prestigious role further solidified his reputation within the industry.

Then, two years ago, Domenick took a bold step as a budding businessman, acquiring the vineyard management company he previously worked for alongside Michael Wolf. Under Domenick’s leadership, the company remains true to its founding roots: small, family-owned, with a mindful focus on the welfare of its employees. This philosophy of care and attention to detail is what drew Seven Apart to entrust our vineyards into Domenick’s more than capable hands.

A Collaborative Effort

Domenick finds kindred spirits in Seven Apart’s winemaker Morgan Maureze and Managing Partner Yannick Girardo, both individuals he now works closely with, united in their passion for exceptional wines and the Seven Apart vision.

“I was drawn to working with Seven Apart as I appreciate the philosophy and approach to winemaking. The team is committed to quality, and they prioritize the things that matter,” he shares. Picking up the torch from Michael Wolf, Domenick brings a thoughtful and balanced approach to vineyard management. “I don’t want to be too heavy-handed but to be thoughtful and precise in each activity,” Domenick explains. His ultimate goal is to support Morgan in crafting the finest wines, while nurturing the environment and valuing the vineyard team’s efforts.

The Perfect Fit

While meticulous in his approach, that doesn’t mean Domenick misses the bigger picture. He loves those “little moments” that showcase Napa’s beauty, like a sunrise over the Vaca Range or vineyards bursting into bloom. This love for nature goes beyond work too. Domenick’s an avid runner and cyclist, always happy to be outside. He even gets his wife and two young children in on the action, exploring the Napa Valley scenery together.

Domenick’s journey through his career speaks volumes about his dedication. He’s built strong relationships throughout Napa Valley and credits his success to hard work, strong values, and now the chance to lead a well-respected vineyard management company. This focus on quality and respect for the land makes him the perfect fit to carry on Seven Apart’s legacy of exceptional winemaking. Welcome to the team, Domenick!

Strong and Beautiful: 2021 Seven Apart Basalt™ Cabernet Sauvignon Release

Millions of years ago, a fiery Mount Saint Helena unleashed a torrent of lava and ash billowing down over what we now know as Napa Valley. Since then, much of the land has been cultivated, but certain hard-to-reach areas remain covered in volcanic rock to this day. One such rock is basalt: a dark, igneous rock formed from the rapid cooling of lava flows – remnants of that ancient eruption.

Today, some of our Stags Ridge vines thrive atop this very basalt, benefiting from its unique properties. Basalt soil is especially beneficial for growing Cabernet Sauvignon vines for several reasons. Its dark color helps to absorb and retain heat, which can prolong the growing season, allowing grapes to develop more complex flavors. Moreover, the soil’s mineral-rich composition, a legacy of its volcanic origin, provides the vines with essential nutrients, contributing to the distinctive character and depth of our Cabernet Sauvignon. This terroir, marked by its volcanic history, imparts a unique minerality and intensity to the wine. It’s for this very reason that we opted to create our 2021 Seven Apart Basalt™ Cabernet Sauvignon. A complementary counterpoint to the soft and feminine Seven Apart Shale™, Seven Apart Basalt™ displays an outward strength, structure, and masculinity. With the 2021 vintage ready for release, we caught up with winemaker Morgan Maureze to discuss the nuances of this dark and broody wine.

Small Berries, Big Expectations

Just like the 2021 Shale, the 2021 Seven Apart Basalt benefited from an excellent growing season. Limited winter and spring rains kept yields low, resulting in the creation of concentrated, intensely flavored berries. Ideal summer conditions followed, allowing the grapes to achieve perfect ripeness while retaining their natural acidity. Morgan describes it as a “clear triumphant vintage,” where Mother Nature provided the perfect foundation for an exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Morgan elaborates: “The season conditions were very favorable for producing high-quality wines. We just respected the vineyards and the generous quality of the fruit by doing night harvesting, low-temperature fermentations to preserve fruit aromas, slow extractions to allow the full body of the wine to develop, and carefully not over-oaking the wines to showcase the quality of the fruit.”

Harvest was quick, with nighttime becoming prime picking time. Between October 6th and 19th, 2021, the grapes were carefully handpicked under the cloak of darkness. This cool night harvest helped minimize oxidation, ensuring the grapes arrived at the cellar as fresh as possible.

Then, the grapes underwent a slow fermentation at cooler temperatures to help preserve all the delicate aromas. After this initial fermentation, the wine journeyed into 72% new French oak barrels. Here, malolactic fermentation took place, a natural process that softens the wine and adds stability. Unfined and unfiltered, finally, the wine was carefully racked off its lees (spent yeast particles) and aged for 24 months in these very barrels before being bottled on December 18th.

A Monolith

The 2021 Seven Apart Basalt marks a special moment in Seven Apart’s story. While Andy Erickson played a major role in crafting this wine, it was bottled under Morgan’s watchful eye. Consistency remains the key.

“Now, you’ve got to remember that back in 2021, when this wine was made, our former winemaker, Andy Erickson, was still at the helm of the cellar,” reminds Morgan. “So this is very much a wine with his touch – although we did work on the final blending process together.”

Reflecting on his time working alongside Andy, Morgan says: “Andy always told me that Basalt is a bit of a monolith within the Seven Apart collection, embodying strength, structure, and an unmistakable masculinity – and it’s true.” Made from these ancient, dark volcanic soils, the real trick, he explains, is to achieve consistency. “Like all grand cru terroirs, the vineyard speaks for itself,” he notes. Without altering fermentation techniques, the intrinsic differences between the vineyards are naturally and equally expressed, allowing the 2021 Seven Apart Basalt to showcase its robust character.

Morgan also reiterates that Seven Apart wine lovers don’t need to worry about any massive changes to the style they’ve come to know and love. “Looking ahead, subtle updates will involve the introduction of the new basecamp vineyard. We have fully transitioned to organic farming, including the complete implementation at Stags Ridge since 2020, and have embraced smaller fermentation batches. These adjustments are all about capturing even greater complexity from the unique character of our vineyards.”

The Wait Is Over

After the 2020 Glass wildfires forced a hiatus, the highly anticipated 2021 Seven Apart Basalt triumphantly returns with the 2021 vintage. This wine is a culmination of three years of meticulous work in the vineyards, and it shows beautifully in the glass. Visually, this wine is a deep crimson color with vibrant aromas of ripe blueberries, prune, dried herbs, and a pleasingly pronounced minerality. A well-balanced wine that greets you with generous soft tannins building to a full-bodied mid-palate culminating in a lengthy, silky finish rife with flavors of cocoa and dried black cherries.

With its pronounced structure and bold personality, the 2021 Seven Apart Basalt pairs beautifully with rich and flavorful foods. Morgan recommends particularly fatty cuts of meat that will stand up well to the wine’s tannins. While approachable upon release for those who enjoy the vibrancy of a youthful Cabernet, this wine will truly reward those who can wait. Morgan shares: “We often underestimate just how long a wine like this can age. Look at well-made 2000 Napa Valley Cabernets crafted in the modern style – they’re still thriving! As long as the Basalt is well-made and cellared properly, we can expect it to age for 20-25 years.”

Of course, Morgan concludes that personal preference matters most: “Ultimately, the best time to enjoy a bottle is when you think you’ll enjoy it the most. Some people love the youthful energy of a young wine, while others prefer the nuanced complexity that develops with bottle age.” The 2021 Seven Apart Basalt caters to both preferences – approachable now, yet capable of rewarding patient cellaring.

With only 9 barrels produced, availability is exclusive to members of our Seven Apart allocation list. As always, we invite you to join us on this journey and enjoy Napa at its peak.

A Day in the Cellar with Winemaker Morgan Maureze

For the distinct group of individuals who choose winemaking as a career, it’s not so much a job as it is a way of life. Unlike most professions that begin with coffee, morning commutes, and 9-to-5 routines, winemakers experience both extremes. With the first buds of spring and the onset of harvest, their lives transform into weeks filled with 1:00 a.m. starts, 24-hour shifts, and staggered sleep. However, it’s winter now in the valley, a season marked by heavy rainfall, short days, and cold nights. At Seven Apart, our winemaker Morgan Maureze’s routines reflect those of our vines, hibernating, diligently maintaining things, and preparing for the next vintage. While the pace is significantly calmer compared to the hustle and bustle of summer, we took the chance to sit down with Morgan to gain an intimate glimpse into what a day in his winemaking life entails.

Morning: 9 am – 1 pm

“It’s the off-season in Napa Valley right now, meaning my hours are more regular—a typical 9-to-5 day, which is fantastic. This schedule allows me the luxury of time in the mornings to be with my daughter Genevieve, to enjoy breakfast together, and to walk her to daycare, among other things,” opens Morgan. This tranquil routine starkly contrasts with the hectic pace of peak season, during which Morgan finds himself at the vineyard by 1:00 a.m. to harvest grapes in their optimal state and catch sleep sporadically amidst overseeing pressings and fermentations.

Upon arrival at the winery, Morgan’s routine reflects the current season’s pace. Winter in Napa Valley is a time for introspection and planning. The cellar, a sanctum of potential and promise, holds the future of the 2022 vintage, quietly aging in barrels alongside the more recent 2023 vintage. Morgan, alongside Jorge, Seven Apart’s Cellar Master, delves into the day’s tasks with a focus sharpened by years of experience.

“Mornings mean maintenance, encompassing not only the facility but the wines themselves. We’re currently monitoring the 2023 vintage as it completes its malolactic fermentation,” Morgan shares. From monitoring the progress of the wines in barrel to envisioning the blends that will define the next vintage, his approach is one of minimal intervention but maximum attention. As Morgan walks through the cellar, his eyes scan for anything amiss, a habit honed by years of tending to the minutiae of winemaking. The aesthetic of the cellar, its cleanliness and organization, speaks to the ethos of Seven Apart—excellence in every detail. “I’ve also made some adjustments to enhance the layout for our winery tours,” he notes.

Morgan and Jorge methodically review a weekly schedule displayed in their office, ticking off each completed task. While the vineyard remains dormant, necessitating only monthly inspections, the frequency of these walkthroughs intensifies as spring nears, eventually becoming almost hourly to meticulously monitor the fruit’s development and pinpoint the ideal harvest time. “These walkthroughs are crucial for evaluating the cover crop’s vigor and the effectiveness of our pruning techniques, among other factors,” Morgan explains. For now, the morning hours are reserved for tackling the most labor-intensive tasks.

Afternoon: 2 pm – 5 pm

Lunch is often a shared moment with Jorge at a simple picnic table outside. “We just talk about work, family, whatever. We’ve known each other a while, so we’re comfortable to grab a quiet bite to eat,” explains Morgan. Sometimes, their lunch break is not so quiet, punctuated by interactions with winery visitors. Morgan’s willingness to engage and share the story of Seven Apart reflects a broader commitment to hospitality and the shared experience of wine.

By afternoon, his focus shifts to the barrels that lie in the heart of the cellar. Tasting and blending are acts of creativity, guided by an intimate knowledge of each lot’s potential. His philosophy, one of letting the wine express its inherent qualities without unnecessary manipulation, shapes his approach to these tasks. It’s a belief in the wine’s ability to mature, to find its balance and character with time rather than through constant adjustment.

“Once the wine is in the barrel, I avoid excessive tinkering and sampling. After all, it’s aging for a period of 18 to 24 months.. Intervening too much can introduce oxygen and potential contaminants. Moreover, it’s about allowing the wine to rest and mature on its own. If the wine was crafted correctly from the start, it shouldn’t need much adjustment. Much like people, wine sometimes needs time to develop,” Morgan elucidates.

As the day draws to a close, the sense of accomplishment from completing the day’s tasks and leaving the cellar in pristine condition reflects Morgan’s life philosophy—being thoughtful, and always looking ahead. “The most gratifying part of my day is when everything is cleaned, organized, and ready for tomorrow. There’s a profound sense of satisfaction in knowing everything is in its right place. It feels good and makes the next day’s start infinitely smoother,” he shares.

Evening: 6 pm – late

Morgan’s commute home is a short 10-15 minute drive. Dinner, often prepared by his wife Britny, is an opportunity for Morgan to shift from winemaker to family man.

“I’m incredibly fortunate because my wife is a chef, so I often return home to exceptional meals. Consequently, mealtime is important in our home—it revolves around food and wine,” shares Morgan. As Britny prepares the meals, Morgan contemplates their drink choice, delving into their home cellar to find the perfect pairing. “This ritual marks the beginning of my evening unwind, essentially assisting in meal preparation, though I mainly try to keep out of Britny’s way in the kitchen. It’s about spending quality time with Genevieve and enjoying dinner together. While work might come up in conversation, we make a concerted effort not to let it dominate our evening discussions,” he adds.

Morgan’s evenings are a time for reflection, for appreciating the simplicity of a meal shared with loved ones, and for the quiet contemplation of the day’s work. It’s in these moments that the full scope of his role at Seven Apart comes into focus—not just as a maker of wine but as a custodian of a tradition that spans generations, a tradition that, under his watchful eye, will continue to flourish. Here’s to the journey ahead, the vintages yet to come, and the hands that will bring them to life.