Ann Colgin is the founder of Colgin Cellars, one of Napa Valley’s most prestigious vineyards, described by Robert Parker as “As close to a viticultural nirvana as I’ve ever seen”. Founded in 1992, Colgin Cellars is renowned for producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of its mid-slope vineyards. Ann’s background in the art market, combined with her experience as director of the West Coast Wine Department at Sotheby’s, has greatly influenced her approach to wine. Colgin Cellars wines are known for their complexity, depth and elegance, with production intentionally limited to maintain its highest standards. The heart of Colgin Cellars is IX Estate, a secluded sanctuary overlooking Lake Hennessey. Ann Colgin’s devotion to excellence and artistic vision have made Colgin Cellars a beacon in Napa Valley.
Ann is a fervent supporter of modern and contemporary art, serving on the boards of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the American Friends of the Centre Pompidou.
- You are not from a winemaker’s family. Yet, instead of acquiring an existing estate you took the decision to create your own vineyard. Why?
{A.C}: I’ve always deeply appreciated the arts, which initially led me to study with Sotheby’s in London. It was there that I discovered my passion for fine wine. A visit to Napa Valley in 1988 to The Napa Valley Wine Auction was a turning point—not my first time in the region, but the first time I met the extraordinary champions of Napa Valley wine. Their passion and dedication inspired me to become part of this remarkable community, contributing to its continued ascent. When I decided to start Colgin Cellars in 1992, I wanted to create something from the ground up, crafting wines that reflected my own vision. Drawing on years of experiencing the world’s finest wines, I recognized parallels to their mid-slope plantings, which became a cornerstone of Colgin Cellars and my approach to crafting exceptional wines. This led to the purchase of Tychson Hill in 1996 and IX Estate in 1998—two distinctive vineyards that embody Napa Valley’s extraordinarily diverse topography. Building from the ground up allowed me to ensure every detail aligned with my belief in quality and expression.
- In 1995, after much effort, you held the first bottle of your wine in your hands. Do you remember that moment? What did you feel?
{A.C}: I remember the moment vividly—it was a mixture of joy, pride, and disbelief. After years of dedication and learning, seeing that bottle felt like holding a piece of a dream made real. I recall savoring the thought of sharing this wine with others, knowing it would become part of their stories and celebrations.
- You had the privilege to meet Robert Mondavi. What was his most precious advice?
{A.C}: I was incredibly fortunate to build a deep friendship with Robert and Margrit Mondavi. Robert’s most precious advice was his steadfast belief in Napa Valley’s quality and championing this ideal. His faith in the region’s potential to stand alongside the world’s greatest wine regions has always resonated with me. Beyond his advice, we bonded over our shared passion for philanthropy and commitment to giving back to our growing region.
- You are dedicating part of your production to charity auctions. Why is this important to you? Can you give us some examples of foundations or projects that have benefited from it?
{A.C}: Philanthropy has been an integral part of my life since my boarding school days, when I first learned the value of giving back. Napa Valley’s spirit of generosity is unparalleled, and we’re honored to contribute to this tradition. At Colgin Cellars, we’ve chosen to forgo traditional tasting fees, instead requesting charitable donations to the St. Helena Hospital Foundation. Blending my passions for art and philanthropy, I serve on the board of trustees for the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. This role has allowed me to merge the worlds of fine art and wine, mainly through my work chairing the Collector’s Committee Weekend. It’s a testament to how intertwined these realms can be and how they can work together to support worthy causes.
- What motivated you to join the LVMH group?
{A.C}: When LVMH approached us, it was clear they understood and valued the legacy built at Colgin Cellars. Owning a winery is a distinctive way of life. Without heirs ready to carry it forward, we found an opportunity to entrust our vision to a partner equally dedicated to excellence. A pivotal factor in our decision was LVMH’s formation of Vins d’Exception—a showcase for wines of extraordinary character. To stand alongside icons such as Clos des Lambrays, Château Cheval Blanc, and Château d’Yquem as the only California winery in this collection is an incredible honor. They’ve been remarkable collaborators, and I’m grateful that our day-to-day operations remain unchanged while securing the future of Colgin Cellars for generations to come.
- You have a special connection with France, particularly Burgundy. Do you find any connection between that region of France and the Napa Valley?
{A.C}: My appreciation for Burgundy began while studying in London with Sotheby’s. I was captivated by the region’s singular focus on vineyard expression and its profound sense of place. When I transitioned back to California, Napa Valley similarly called to me, offering its own ethereal qualities and diverse topography. At Colgin Cellars, we draw on this philosophy, crafting wines that celebrate the individuality of each site—Tychson Hill, Cariad, and IX Estate. These vineyards embody Napa’s incredible richness and reflect the thoughtful, philosophical connection that resonates deeply with my Burgundy experiences.
- How the different parcels reflect the incredible diversity of Napa Valley?
{A.C}: When you look at Napa Valley, we have the greatest diversity of soils of any fine wine-growing region on planet Earth. Each of our vineyard sites— Tychson Hill, Cariad, and IX Estate—represents a unique expression of Napa Valley’s terrain. By nurturing each site with care and precision, we’re able to craft wines that embody their distinct personalities and sense of place.
- How do you reflect on the first 30 years spent developing Colgin Cellars? What do you wish for the next 30 years?
{A.C}: The last 33 years have been an uncommon journey of growth and discovery. What started as a vision has become something far more significant. For the future, I hope Colgin Cellars continues to inspire and delight, remaining a benchmark for excellence while fostering the same values of creativity and generosity that have defined our past.
- You quickly gained legitimacy and admiration in the wine industry, especially in France. How do you explain such success in the small, demanding world where traditions and heritage are key?
{A.C}: I believe our success comes from a deep respect for tradition and an unwavering commitment to quality. There are certain attributes that I have always admired about French wines, and they helped to create the pillars on which Colgin Cellars crafts wine; we aim to produce wines of perfume, freshness, and minerality. Our wines reflect this dedication to craftsmanship, which I believe resonates with connoisseurs in France and beyond.
- You are also passionate about art. Does this represent an important part of your life? Do you have a particular period of interest?
{A.C}: Art has been a lifelong passion for me, beginning with my education and the influence of an amazing art history teacher who opened my eyes to its transformative power. Art was my first love, and while life eventually led me into the world of wine, the two have always been intertwined. I’m particularly drawn to contemporary works, especially by women artists, whose unique perspectives and processes continually deepen my appreciation. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many artists and gaining insight into their creativity, which remains a constant fascination.
- Art and wine have a millennia-old history. What do they have to offer in a rapidly changing world?
{A.C}: Both art and wine have always been profound sources of inspiration for me, sharing a rare ability to encapsulate a moment in time and offering a much-needed respite from the rapid pace of life. Whether through a painting or a glass of wine, these experiences encourage us to pause, savor the moment, and reflect on our shared humanity—reminding us that beauty and creativity endure, even in an ever-changing world.
Ink & Voices 