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Winemaker

We're proud of the roots of our 4th generation Sonoma family winemaker Michael Sebastiani. He has spent a lifetime of being immersed in the creation and enjoyment of wine.


"Robb called me to come up to Oregon and investigate this newly formed AVA region. Just like Sonoma County and other famous wine region beginnings, Hood River had quickly become a significant contributor of fruit in the U.S". What I found fascinating, this newly designated Viticultural Area (wine grape-growing region) includes a 40 mile stretch which experiences dramactic temperature and rainfall changes. The result, distinct microclimates that almost perfectly duplicate four of the world's greatest grape-growing regions, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhone and Rhine. Cathedral Ridge Winery is located less than thirty minutes from all four of these marvelous microclimates! The grapes travel less than 30 minutes to get to the winery allowing us to capture the most intense concentrations of flavors. I fell in love with the great opportunity to grow various varieties in these unique microclimates.

What I like to do is focus on wine that reflexs the local area. Imagine a day either up on Mt. Hood or out on the river and then to enjoy a really good glass of wine and a locally prepared meal with friends or family, it just doesn't get any better."


Born and raised in the heart of wine country in the Sonoma Valley, his first experiences in the industry started when he was 10 working summers in the vineyards he tended to vines and helped prepare the grapes for harvest; the smells of grapes and wine, the mechanics of running the winery, the cellar and working in the tasting room (not to drink wine yet but to learn about the visitor experience and what's important to the wine drinker) all contributed to his love and understanding of wine.

After completion of his winemaking degree in just 3 years at UC Davis, Michael began working for the family business, Viansa and began building their Italian varietal program. After several years of wine making experience, Michael founded Generations of Sonoma Winery and sonafter became winemaker for Cathedral Ridge Winery.

What does Michael think about Wine? "Wine is food, and most times should be treated in the same manner - vinifying wine is our way of "cooking" our courses, each wine type and varietal having its place in our life. As with food wine and should always be entertaining in every way of course their flavors, but also their looks, their presentations, and most definitely the company in which they are enjoyed."

Salute!