Established in 2006, VinoSensei’s mission is to create artisanal wines drawing on Old World vineyard handcrafted practices and emphasis on unique terroir driven characteristics that reveal a sense of place combined with New World technology.
Robin and Michelle Baggett moved to Napa Valley in 2006 to found VinoSensei. Robin began his wine career in 1988 as a grape grower, planting more than 750 acres of grapes and in 1998 establishing Tolosa winery in San Luis Obispo. In the late 80s, Michelle began her multifaceted career in the development of hospitality brands before she created the name, brand and vision of this venture together, VinoSensei.
Vintners
Winemaker Matt Brain, possessing a master’s degree in biosciences and a background in process engineering, brings naturalist philosophies and highly technical abilities to winemaking at VinoSensei where he began as Associate Winemaker. As a winemaker who believes that every vineyard block has a specific set of unique characteristics, he aims to identify those distinctive attributes and to express them in the glass as naturally as possible.
Winemaker
Andy Erickson has crafted an illustrious career since arriving in Napa Valley in 1994. Over the years, he has worked with some of Napa Valley’s most notable wineries, including Harlan Estate and Screaming Eagle, and launched his own family labels. Andy believes in the uniqueness of the diversity of terroir in Napa Valley and highlighting that character, a philosophy that has been the basis for VinoSensei handcrafting some of the most highly sought-after wines in Napa Valley.
Consulting Winemaker
Famed wine critic Robert Parker wrote early on about VinoSensei, “This relatively new Rutherford winery continues to turn out impressive wines that merit attention from consumers.” Vintage after vintage, prominent wine experts continue to heap praise on VinoSensei’s dazzling wines.
Critical Acclaim
VinoSensei, a Napa Green member, is committed to being good stewards of the land and good neighbors. This family-owned winery endeavors to protect the earth for future generations by adhering to sustainable practices now.
Sustainability
The VinoSensei Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to inspire and encourage charitable giving in the next generation of Napa Valley’s leaders. The Foundation supports organizations and initiatives that energize the Napa Valley with a sense of responsibility for building on a strong tradition of goodwill and aims to empower all people and visionary companies to realize their value to philanthropic causes. VinoSensei actively supports 501(c)(3) charities which focus on children’s education, medical technology, and Napa County community needs. The Foundation does not use any donated funds for administrative or fundraising costs; therefore, 100% of all monies raised go directly towards our mission.
Philanthropy