The late Mike Chelini’s path to becoming a quintessential Napa Valley Chardonnay winemaker began on the Mayacamas Range. He then began tending the vines at Napa’s Stony Hill, where he was appointed vineyard manager in 1972. Mike was subsequently promoted and became Stony Hill’s full-time winemaker in 1977. In that role, Mike established his signature wine style, always taking care to preserve the natural acidity of the grapes. Mike set out to teach his young friend and partner, Mathew Torres.
Protégé
Protégé Wines embodies a legacy of mentorship and craftsmanship in winemaking.
A harmonious blend of expertise and passion
Disciples of winemaker Mike Chelini value the restraint and precision he wields in making some of Napa Valley most coveted Chardonnay. In collaboration with his protégé, Matt Torres, this Chardonnay is no exception. Rooted in the rich soils of prestigious vineyards, our wines are a testament to the artistry passed down through generations. With a commitment to excellence and a deep respect for tradition, protégé Wines showcases the finest varietals, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of their terroir. Each bottle represents a harmonious blend of expertise and passion, offering enthusiasts an exceptional journey through the world of wine.
Mentor & Protégé
Winemaker, Mike Chelini
Winemaker, Matt Torres
As a fourth generation Trinchero family member and Napa Valley native, winemaking always fascinated Protégé winemaker Mathew Torres. Mathew’s venture into winemaking began in 2015 alongside close friend Ryan Darrall. In 2019, Mathew’s talents and aspirations caught the eye of Trinchero Family Wine and Spirits President and CEO Bob Torkelson. Bob connected Mathew with longtime friend and famed winemaker Mike Chelini of Stony Hill fame, and together they created a Chardonnay project characterized by Mike’s hallmark low-impact winemaking.
Vista Montone Vineyard, Napa Valley
Our Protégé Chardonnay is sourced exclusively from our estate Vista Montone Vineyard in the southern part of Napa Valley, near Carneros. Vista Montone means “view of the sheep” and Carneros, meaning “ram”, in Spanish. You can see both Carneros and the San Pablo Bay from this vineyard. First planted in 1999, the vineyard is substantially farmed and certified Fish Friendly Farming. For Protégé, we source from three blocks containing Clone 5 with higher, natural acid, a Mike Chelini hallmark, and later maturity grapes.
Brand Assets
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