Napa Valley, CA (June 2, 2023) — To Kalon Vineyard Company is thrilled to announce Tony Biagi as the winery’s new winemaker. Tony is an acclaimed industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience crafting highly regarded wines in the Napa Valley.
A fifth generation Northern Californian, he graduated from the Viticulture & Enology program at UC Davis and has worked with a number of renowned wineries throughout his career, including PlumpJack Estate, CADE Estate, Duckhorn Vineyards, Sinegal Estate Winery and Hourglass Winery. Tony is recognized as one of Napa Valley’s most dynamic winemakers and was named Vinous Winemaker of the Year in 2020 by Antonio Galloni. In addition to his new role, he will continue to make wines for his personal label, Patria, and will remain a winemaker for Hourglass and others in the Napa Valley.
“Tony has a unique perspective and keen understanding of the Napa Valley, having worked with many top estates throughout the region,” said Jason Smith, Master Sommelier and General Manager of To Kalon Vineyard Company. “I look forward to his partnership on the incredibly exciting future of To Kalon Vineyard Company.”
In his new role, Tony will oversee all winemaking operations for the brand’s three Napa Valley red wines, available through member list allocation. He will work closely with To Kalon Vineyard Operations Director, Blake Wood, on decisions in the vineyard from pruning strategy to block selection to bring the iconic vineyard to life in the bottle. Tony begins as winemaker effective immediately and will work with To Kalon Vineyard Company’s inaugural winemaker Andy Erickson throughout an extended transition.
“It has been a career highlight for me to work with this historic site and, having known Tony for many years, I feel confident that it is in good hands.” said Andy Erickson. “Tony’s winemaking style is a perfect match to capture the classic To Kalon Vineyard character with a modern aesthetic.”
Located at the foot of the Mayacamas Mountains in Oakville, Napa Valley, To Kalon Vineyard’s well-drained, gravelly soil allows the vines to root deeply, finding precious moisture and nutrients. The broad diurnal temperature shifts and reliable sun, wind, and fog, provide an ideal blend of growth and rest for complex flavor development.
“Crafting wines from the legendary To Kalon Vineyard is an honor for any winemaker and I am inspired to work with the engaging, driven and passionate To Kalon Vineyard Company team to capture the essence of To Kalon Vineyard,” Tony said. “To be given the opportunity to take the reins of this project from my good friend Andy Erickson makes it even more special and I am excited for what the future holds.”
About To Kalon Vineyard Company
Founded in 2016, To Kalon Vineyard Company is a celebration of what can happen when one of the best vineyards in the world meets winemaking at the very highest level. Inspired by the vineyard’s rich history and legendary quality, To Kalon Vineyard Company wines capture the highest and most unique expressions of To Kalon Vineyard in each vintage. H.W. Crabb, the man who bestowed To Kalon Vineyard with its name more than 150 years ago, meaning “Highest Beauty,”, was lauded in his time as a winemaker without peer in California. The wines he produced from this storied vineyard were, as is true today, recognized and sought after for their elusive and singular quality. For more information visit tokalonvineyardcompany.com.
