Donn Chappellet
Donn Chappellet | |
|---|---|
| Born | Cyril Donn Chappellet Template:Birth date Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Died | May 24, 2016 (aged 84) St. Helena, California, U.S. |
| Alma mater | Pomona College |
| Occupation(s) | Businessman, Vintner |
| Spouse | Molly |
Cyril Donn Chappellet (September 11, 1931 – May 24, 2016) was a prominent American entrepreneur and winemaker, recognized as the founder of the Chappellet Winery.
Early life and education
Chappellet was born in Los Angeles, California, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from Pomona College in 1954. His fascination with Bordeaux wines during his collegiate years significantly shaped his subsequent pursuits in viticulture.
Early career
In 1955, he co-established Interstate United Corporation, a food service enterprise that employed approximately 8,000 individuals and was publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange. After divesting his holdings in 1966, he relocated his family to Pritchard Hill in Napa Valley.
Establishment of Chappellet Vineyards
The year 1967 marked the founding of Chappellet Vineyard on Pritchard Hill by Chappellet, making it the second winery to be launched in Napa Valley following Prohibition. Collaborating with esteemed winemaker André Tchelistcheff, he cultivated vineyards on elevated terrain, undertaking extensive land preparation that involved removing boulders and clearing forested areas.
Chappellet passed away on May 24, 2016, in St. Helena, California, at the age of 84.
Winemaking and legacy
Molly, his wife, was instrumental in advancing the winery's growth, while their six children have maintained active roles in its management. Since Donn Chappellet stepped down in 2013, their son Cyril has assumed the position of chairman.
Throughout his career, Chappellet collaborated with distinguished winemakers including Philip Togni, Tony Soter, Phillip Corallo-Titus, and Cathy Corison to produce concentrated and age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Following the establishment of Chappellet Winery, Pritchard Hill gained recognition as a prestigious Napa Valley appellation hosting wineries such as Colgin Cellars, Continuum Estate, and Ovid. Importantly, the exclusive rights to feature the Pritchard Hill designation on wine labels remain with the Chappellet family.