(Napa Valley, Calif.)—March 22, 2022—Amici Cellars today announced the appointment of Matt Courtney as consulting winemaker for the Calistoga-based winery. Courtney, who brings more than 20 years of experience, will oversee production of the estate’s appellation and single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir portfolio, and the collection of wines from its sister brand Olema.
He joins Amici Cellars winemaker Tony Biagi, who is at the helm of all winemaking for the independent, family-owned winery, a post he has held since 2015. Under Biagi’s leadership, Amici Cellars has grown from its flagship Cabernet to production of small lot, single-vineyard bottlings from Napa and Sonoma County’s most prestigious vineyards.
“Everything we do at Amici Cellars is with the intention of building a long term, sustainable winery that lives up to its full potential. Matt’s talent and commitment to excellence make him the ideal person to continue our efforts to bring out the very best in our vineyard sources and produce world-class wines,” said Amici proprietor John Harris.
“I feel a deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication that has gone into building Amici Cellars. I look forward to continuing the tradition and collaborating with my friend and colleague, Tony Biagi,” adds consulting winemaker Matt Courtney.
Recognized for creating elegantly balanced, terroir-driven wines, Courtney honed his skills with one of California’s most influential winemakers, Helen Turley and her viticulturist partner and husband, John Wetlaufer at Marcassin. During his eight-year tenure in the winery and the vineyards, Courtney played a significant role in crafting some of the most highly acclaimed Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. A position of winemaker at Arista Winery in the Russian River Valley followed in 2013, where Courtney oversees winemaking from the two estate vineyards as well as select growers. In that same year, Courtney launched his own project, Ferren Wines, select single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast. Additional consulting experience has included MacPhail Wines, Wilson Daniels and Carteirra.
Prior to earning his degree in Viticulture and Enology from the University of California Davis, Courtney was on the path to pursue his Master Sommelier certification with the Court of Master Sommeliers. A trip to France to visit and taste with legendary producers was the catalyst that set him on a course to attain a new level of understanding through winemaking. A native of Meridian, Mississippi, Courtney resides in St. Helena with his wife and two children.
About Amici Cellars
Tucked into Calistoga’s hillside with spectacular views overlooking the Palisades, Amici Cellars is located only a few minutes from downtown Calistoga. More than 30 years in the making, Amici Cellars focuses on small batch winemaking to craft its flagship Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and select varietals, along with single-vineyard bottlings from many of Napa Valley’s most coveted heritage, hillside and valley vineyards. Amici Cellars’ winery is open to the public, by appointment, featuring a private tasting room. For more information or reservations, please visit www.amicicellars.com or call 707.967.9560.
