Wine Enthusiast Magazine / Web 2011 / Sterling Vineyards Hires New Winemaker

Sterling Vineyards Hires New Winemaker

Harry Hansen is named senior winemaker of the leading wine-producing Napa Valley vineyard.

Sterling Vineyards, a leading producer of Napa Valley wines owned by Diageo, announced that it has named Harry Hansen senior winemaker. He will be responsible for overseeing all wine production.

Prior to his new position, Hansen was head winemaker at Edna Valley Vineyard, which was purchased by E&J Gallo from Diageo in June.

“Harry’s leadership and decades-long track record of producing world class California wine is a natural fit for Sterling,” says Rebecca Johnson, a Diageo spokesperson.

Vic Motto, CEO of Global Wine Partners, an industry investment banking firm, concurs. “Sterling has grown to become one of the most important brands in the Diageo portfolio, one they’re emphasizing. So to enhance the winemaking operation, it makes sense to bring in someone like Harry, with a good reputation as a quality winemaker, especially for Chardonnay.”

In addition to managing Sterling’s flagship Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons, Hansen will also be responsible for Chardonnay production, which results in the inexpensively priced Vintner’s Collection line.

"I look forward to carrying on the Sterling tradition of quality and intend to work with our winemaking team to continue to make visionary wines and to cultivate Sterling's reputation as an industry leader," Hansen said in a statement.