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Our winemaking team is a group of extremely talented and dedicated individuals who have brought a passion for the art and craft of winemaking to St. Francis Winery, as well as cutting edge knowledge and finely honed hands-on experience. Their abilities and the synergy of their collaborations make for an impressive team and stunning wines.
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Tom Mackey, Director of Winemaking
When Tom began at St. Francis in 1983, there were barely a handful of wineries in Sonoma and the region struggled to find its identity. He soon changed that, pioneering a Sonoma Valley style of winemaking and leading the way in establishing varietals that are ideally suited to Sonoma soils. Mackey introduced Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel to the St. Francis portfolio and strengthened the commitment to the already successful Chardonnay and Merlot. Under Tom’s careful direction, St. Francis wines truly reflect the essence of Sonoma County terroir. Tom resides in Santa Rosa with wife Miriam and their four legged friends Chloe and Alex. |
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Dennis Borell, Winemaker
Wanting to move on from his accounting career, Dennis came to St. Francis in 1987 and spent the first couple of years working in the cellar. With experience and dedication, he moved up to his new position as Cellar Master. His winery experience at St. Francis convinced him to further his education in viticulture, wine evaluation and basic wine chemistry. He is now one of St. Francis' winemakers and is focused on the production of our Sonoma County wines as well as our popular "RED" blend. When not making wine he enjoys the world through the lens of a camera. |
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Heather Munden, Winemaker
Heather arrived at St. Francis Winery in 2007 with extensive winery and vineyard experience from around the world, including her time as Assistant Winemaker at Hartford Family Winery. Her hands-on approach to viticulture and exceptional winemaking skills have made her an extraordinary addition to the team. As the Artisan winemaker, Heather is responsible for the small production single vineyard wines available only at the Winery and through the Wine Club. Her love of food and wine is reflected in her legendary feasts prepared for friends and family at her home. |
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Katie Madigan, Assistant Winemaker
Born in Santa Cruz, Katie attended Santa Barbara University with a focus on Chemistry. In 2002 she accepted a harvest internship with us at St. Francis. She had discovered her passion - winemaking. In 2003 she was offered a full time position as Senior Lab Technician and became interested in the research of wine color and tannins. After certification at UC Davis in their 2-year Winemaking Program she was promptly promoted to Assistant Winemaker by Tom in 2006. With her attention to detail in the vineyards, excellent palate and winemaking skills she has been entrusted with the production of many of our white wines. When away from the winery, Katie is living the outdoor life kayaking and hiking in Marin County. |
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Derek Borell, Production Manager
Derek (Dennis’ son) came to St. Francis in 1990, right out of high school and worked summers in the Winery as a "cellar rat". His natural cool demeanor and good natured personality are winning qualities that make him the perfect candidate to oversee St. Francis’ barrel crew. As Production Manger his duties are now many and varied, keeping all facets of wine production organized and moving in an efficient process. Derek’s off site hours are spent enjoying family life with his wife Sharon and their two sons, Jordan and Brandon.
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