WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR
CATHY CORISON

Cathy Corison has had a significant impact on Napa Valley and the broader wine world.  Over four decades, she has championed an approach that balances power with elegance, crafting wines that express the purity of place, age with grace, and stand as benchmarks for California Cabernet Sauvignon.  While many winemakers in Napa Valley followed the trend of high-alcohol, ultra-ripe wines, Cathy Corison remained steadfast in her vision—creating wines of finesse, structure, and longevity.  In bucking the trend, Cathy Corison created room for winemakers to divert from it and led a renaissance of her own that has galvanized the next generation of winemakers.  Her Cabernet Sauvignons are known for their restraint, bright acidity, and ability to express terroir, making them stand out in a region often dominated by bold, fruit-forward styles.

She began her winemaking journey at UC Davis, where she earned a master’s degree in enology, and went on to hone her craft at iconic wineries such as Chappellet, Staglin, and York Creek.  In 1987, she founded Corison Winery, becoming one of the first independent female winemakers in Napa.  Her estate-grown Kronos Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is considered a benchmark for Napa Valley.

Corison Winery is a leader in sustainable and organic farming practices.  She and her team cultivate their vineyards with deep respect for the land, prioritizing organic methods to enhance soil health and biodiversity. This commitment ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy Napa’s unique terroir while also preserving the environment.  Today, Cathy Corison is recognized as a pioneer, mentor, and advocate for women in the wine industry, leaving an indelible mark on Napa Valley and beyond.

Cathy Corison’s career is a testament to integrity, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to quality.  She has redefined what Napa Valley Cabernet can be—proving that elegance and restraint can stand the test of time. As a winemaker, mentor, and industry leader, she embodies everything the San Francisco Wine Auction’s Winemaker of the Year should represent.