Makers' Stories
Walter Leiva
— Understanding we're never entirely in control and that Mother Nature dictates the outcome is a remarkably freeing realization. It fosters a profound appreciation for the unique qualities that make each Napa Valley vintage exceptional and distinctive.
Tell us about your first Napa Valley harvest…
My first Napa Valley harvest at Laird Family Estates in 2011 was exhilarating and eye-opening. The energy of harvest season, the scent of fermenting grapes and the camaraderie among winemakers and cellar crew were unforgettable. It was a hands-on experience that aggressively fueled my passion for winemaking and set the stage for my journey in the industry.
How did you get started in the wine business?
Growing up in Napa Valley, I was always surrounded by the beauty of vineyards and the allure of winemaking. Driven by a passion for science and art, I naturally gravitated towards subjects like biology and chemistry in my teenage years. This curiosity inevitably steered me towards studying viticulture and enology. Over time, my obsession with wine flourished and became an integral part of my identity. The rest, as they say, is history.
What is your winemaking philosophy?
My winemaking philosophy centers on respecting the land, grapes and process. I prioritize showcasing each vineyard's unique characteristics, guiding the grapes through fermentation and aging to create balanced, expressive wines reflective of their origin. Authenticity, minimal intervention and a deep connection to the land are paramount. Ultimately, my goal is to craft wines that bring joy to consumers while honoring Napa Valley's winemaking legacy.
Name a Napa Valley vintner who has influenced you and briefly explain why.
Philippe Melka has been a significant influence on me. His expertise, innovative techniques and dedication to crafting exceptional wines have profoundly shaped my approach to winemaking.
If you weren't a Napa Valley vintner, what would you be doing?
I'd likely be in the culinary world or immersed in the world of law, indulging my love for debates and leveraging my attention to detail.
What does "cultivating excellence" as a Napa Valley vintner mean to you?
"Cultivating excellence" entails pursuing the highest standards across all facets of winemaking. It requires an unwavering bond with the vineyard, blending cutting-edge methods alongside time-honored practices to produce wines of exceptional caliber. It also involves nurturing a culture of continuous improvement. Ultimately, cultivating excellence is about honoring the rich heritage of winemaking in Napa Valley while striving to create truly exceptional wines.
What's your all-time favorite food and wine pairing?
Fried chicken and bubbles.
If you could open a bottle of your wine and share it with any three people (living or not), who would they be?
Sergei Rachmaninoff, Nikola Tesla and Josie Leiva.
What's one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I've developed an intense and borderline unhealthy obsession with the game of chess.
What’s the strangest word you’ve used to describe the smell or taste of wine?
Green apple Jolly Rancher.
Est. 2011
Davis Estates
03
The Makers