Makers' Stories
Aimee Sunseri
— On the other side of fear is freedom.
Name a Napa Valley vintner who has influenced you and briefly explain why.
Jimmy Nick Nichelini, Greg Boeger, Justin Boeger and Derek Holstein.
What's one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Tough question. I was on the first All-Star girls baseball team in the United States.
Tell us about your first Napa Valley harvest…
I was 2O years old, working with my great uncle Joe, driving tractors and trucks to deliver grapes. I also worked with my second cousin, Greg Boeger, and his son Justin crushing grapes and making wine that harvest of 2001.
If you weren't a Napa Valley vintner, what would you be doing?
Neurologist. They are glad I am a winemaker.
What is your winemaking philosophy?
Simple, pure and true.
What is your favorite memory as a vintner working in Napa Valley?
There are so many. But barreling down in the rain, spraying fungicide in the spring, with the vines clapping as you drive through the vineyard. And selling a stellar wine for an amazing price.
If you could open a bottle of your wine and share it with any three people (living or not), who would they be?
Anton and Caterina Nichelini, my great-great grandfather and grandmother. My dad, who I open up and try wines with often!
What's your all-time favorite food and wine pairing?
Lemon bars and Muscat-based Angelic, the best pairing ever!
Est. 1890
Nichelini Family Winery
03
The Makers