Stags’ Leap Winery is one of the oldest and storied wineries in California, producing award-winning wines from its 240-acre estate and a history dating back to 1893.
We sat down with Senior Winemaker and General Manager Ludovic Dervin whose passion for crafting wines is shown in every bottle. We sat down and chatted all things legacy, the future of winemaking and more.
What inspired you to become a winemaker?
Having spent my formative years in the Champagne region of France, I found inspiration in the people, art, and rich winemaking culture. Surrounded by esteemed vineyards, I even enjoyed playful hide and seek among the grapevines as a child. My innate curiosity and scientific mind align well with the intricate world of winemaking, I also cherish the creativity it brings to my life.
What’s your favorite part of being a winemaker at Stags’ Leap Winery?
As a winemaker at Stags’ Leap Winery, I find immense joy in contributing to the legacy of this iconic brand. Our 240-acre estate vineyard, with origins dating back to 1893, has left an indelible mark on the Napa wine industry, including the naming of the appellation in which we are located. The breathtaking surroundings, nestled at the base of the Pallisades mountain range, fuel my creativity and passion. It’s a privilege to work in such a storied winery, where I can blend artistry and science to craft exceptional Napa Valley wines.
Are there any new projects or wines you are particularly excited about that you can share with us?
Our recent collaboration with Cirque du Soleil is a source of great excitement for the Stags’ Leap Winery brand. In May, we became the Official Wine of Cirque du Soleil Touring Shows in the United States. Not only will our wines be featured at their Big Top shows for one year, but we’ll also have a significant brand presence on-site and will be engaging with fans in new uncharted ways.
We also recently partnered with artist John Rego, who is known for developing larger-than-life illustrations, to bring the storied history of the brand to life using acrylic paint and digital media. Stags’ Leap Winery fans interested in learning more about the history of the vineyard can now engage with this interactive content on our webpage to be immersed in tales that have been passed down for decades.
How do you see the future of winemaking evolving, especially considering things like climate change and consumer preference?
As stewards of the land, we’re acutely aware of the impact of climate change on winemaking. We’ve implemented strategies like early picking and shading the fruit to mitigate heat stress. While these are interim measures, we’re also redesigning our canopies into a more protective ‘V’ shape to shield the grapes from direct sun exposure. Exploring resilient varietals is another avenue we have explored; take Petit Sirah for example, with its thick-skinned grapes, it bodes well in the heat.
Beyond climate considerations, wine remains a dynamic industry. Consumers have embraced wine since the beginning of time. Today, we honor generational preferences while embracing modern tools. Social media, in particular, has offered an exciting platform in recent years—one that resonates with today’s wine enthusiasts.
If you weren’t a winemaker, what would you be doing?
If I weren’t a winemaker, I’d probably find myself immersed in the world of biochemistry, wearing lab coats and exploring microbiology. However, the routine of a 9-to-5 lab life doesn’t quite sit well with me. Given the chance, I’d still opt for the storied vineyards of Stags’ Leap Winery — it’s where my heart belongs.
