Chuck McMinn
Vintner and Philanthropist
Vineyard 29 was founded in 1989 with the planting of a 3-acre vineyard under the watchful eye of lauded vineyard manager David Abreu and, within a year, planted cuttings from neighbors, Grace Family Vineyards. The first release in 1992 was warmly received by press and public alike.
The turn of the century ushered in the next phase of Vineyard 29. Along with the Vineyard 29 property, Chuck and Anne McMinn acquired the historic Aida vineyard in 2000 as a perfect complement to the Vineyard 29 site for expansion of the winery’s portfolio.
The state-of-the-art winemaking facility was completed in 2004 by John Lail, a renowned architect known not just for beautiful design aesthetic but also extensive, first-hand knowledge of wine production. The sustainable, gravity flow facility also gives nod to Chuck’s high tech background.
Driven by a deeply rooted love and appreciation of the St. Helena appellation, three other St. Helena estates have recently been added to the portfolio for a total of 47 planted acres. Vineyard 29 South in 2008, Railroad Estate in 2017 and an affectionate nod to Anne McMinn’s maiden name, Winner Estate in 2018.
In 2004, Vineyard 29 launched the inaugural CRU Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, which hit the national market in 2006, as an introduction to the style of the Estate wines. The CRU portfolio has expanded and now includes and AVA series of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose, and Pinot Noir. Estate wines produced include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Zinfandel. Wine production is led by veteran winemaker Keith Emerson. Fall of 2022 brought Chuck’s well-earned retirement and Keith Emerson’s appointment to President and CEO of Vineyard 29.
