Elizabeth Vianna
Elizabeth Vianna | |
|---|---|
| Education | Master's degree in fermentation science from University of California, Davis |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, Winemaker |
| Years active | 1999–present |
| Known for | Crafting California Bordeaux-style Cabernet wines at Chimney Rock |
Elizabeth Vianna is a Latina entrepreneur and winemaker recognized for crafting distinguished California Bordeaux-style Cabernet wines at Chimney Rock, a winery under the Terlato Wine Group umbrella.
Career
Vianna shifted her professional focus from biology studies at Vassar College and clinical toxicology experience in New York to the field of winemaking after developing an interest in wine at a Christie's auction. She earned a master's degree in fermentation science from the University of California, Davis, during which she completed an internship at Chimney Rock. After graduating in 1999, she joined Chimney Rock as an enologist, progressed to assistant winemaker by 2002, and became head winemaker in 2005.
In 2011, Vianna advanced to the role of General Manager while maintaining her responsibilities as lead winemaker at the Stags Leap District estate. Throughout her career, she has worked alongside prominent California vintners including Heidi Barrett and Celia Welch.
Vianna was invited to deliver the commencement address for the UC Davis Graduate Studies class of 2009 and is a regular participant in wine competitions and tasting panels.
Her contributions were highlighted in the 2012 PBS documentary series Vintage, which followed the harvest season at three Napa Valley wineries.
In 2017, her vineyards narrowly avoided destruction during the October wildfires that affected Northern California.