Michael Polenske
Michael Polenske | |
|---|---|
| Born | Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, gallery proprietor, winemaker |
| Known for | Founder and creative director of Bespoke Collection and Blackbird Vineyards |
Michael Polenske is an American entrepreneur, originally from Malaysia, known for his roles as a gallery proprietor and winemaker. He established and currently serves as the creative director and chairman of both the Bespoke Collection and Blackbird Vineyards. His work has been highlighted in notable media outlets including Forbes, the San Francisco Chronicle, Food & Wine, the Robb Report, Town & Country, and Departures.
Early life and education
Polenske was born in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. His father was a pilot in the United States Air Force, providing support for Air Force One and Air Force Two during President Richard Nixon's tenure. Throughout his childhood, his family resided in locations such as Washington, D.C., Travis Air Force Base, and Vacaville, California. It was during his time in California that he developed an early fascination with the region's wine industry. In 1983, Polenske completed a finance degree at California State University, Chico, where he also pursued wine studies emphasizing financial services tailored to vintners.
Career
Following his graduation, Polenske embarked on a career in finance, overseeing areas including Napa Valley and predominantly Silicon Valley. His professional journey included roles at American Express and subsequently at JPMorgan Chase within the private banking sector, where he eventually directed JPMorgan’s Private Bank West Coast North division. He later assumed the position of president and CEO for the Western division of Chase Manhattan Bank & Trust. Over time, his passion for wine, Napa Valley, and art collecting grew into a parallel vocation. In 2007, he transitioned away from finance to dedicate himself fully to endeavors in Napa Valley.
A second career in Napa Valley
In 2003, Polenske acquired a 10-acre vineyard specializing in Merlot located in Napa Valley’s Oak Knoll District. He engaged a professional winemaker and launched wines under the Blackbird Vineyards brand, drawing inspiration from Bordeaux’s right-bank styles.[1]
By 2008, he undertook restoration of a 1904-built farmhouse situated in Yountville, California, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. This property was transformed into Ma(i)sonry Napa Valley, serving as both an art gallery and tasting venue. The following year, Polenske expanded his holdings by purchasing the I. Wolk Gallery in St. Helena and later developed sculpture gardens at Napa’s Auberge du Soleil, Sonoma’s MacArthur Place, and Calistoga’s Solage resorts. He is among the founding members of The Napa Valley Reserve as well as a founding board member of Festival Del Sole.[2]
Work outside of wine country
Polenske holds a seat on the board of the Russian National Orchestra. In 2006, he invested in New York City’s exclusive club, Soho House, along with San Francisco dining establishments Boulettes Larder and Terzo.[2][3] Additionally, he has owned an antique retail store based in San Francisco.[4] As an enthusiastic art collector, his contemporary collection features pieces by artists such as David Park, Squeak Carnwath, and Manuel Neri.[3]
Illegal Trade in Protected Species
On August 11, 2015, Polenske admitted guilt in a federal court regarding charges of trafficking and conspiracy involving endangered species. The case concerned the importation and sale of whale vertebrae and a sea turtle shell through Ma(i)sonry. His sentencing hearing was set for November 13, 2015.
External links
- Napa Valley Life highlighting Michael Polenske's preferred spots in Napa Valley
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