ABOUT OUR WINEMAKER

Chris grew up in the rolling hills of the Sierra Nevada Foothills, in El Dorado County. There, amongst the vineyards, Chris' love affair with wine began. By 16 years old, Chris realized he wanted to pursue a career in Winemaking. After graduating high school, he began preliminary courses in winemaking and began to satisfy general education on the path to the Viticulture and Enology program at the University of Davis, California.

Chris studied in Chico and South Lake Tahoe, California, before transferring to UCD in the Fall of 2002. While at UCD, Chris was able to take his passion for wine to the next level. During his coursework at UCD, Chris had an opportunity to perform an internship at Wente Vineyards in Livermore, California. There he began to develop professional skills as a quality wine producer. Upon graduating, Chris went to work for Wente as their Enologist, and 1 year later was promoted to Assistant Winemaker.

Winemaker, Chris Graves

One year after, Chris was given the position as winemaker of Tamás Estates (a brand owned by Wente) specializing in Cal-Ital style wines. There, he was able to shine. Honing in his skills he produced award winning wines, including Sangiovese, Barbera, Zinfandel, Pinot Grigio and original proprietary blends. As winemaker for Tamás Estates, Chris traveled the world selling wine and continuing his education, and passion, in Enology.

Now, as Winemaker for Ruby Hill Winery, Chris brings his fresh perspective, skills and knowledge to the cellar creating world-class wines from Livermore and the surrounding Central Coast regions. "I am very excited about this new project" Chris exclaims. "We have so much history here at Ruby Hill, and an incredible location. I feel very confident that this region can produce wines as good as anywhere in the world—and that is exactly what I am going to do."

Chris lives on the winery property with his wife Juliet, and son Ethan. There, he can tend to his wine with tender-loving-care, and watch the sunset over the vineyards every evening.

Chris Graves' Education and Experience ->