ELLMAN ESTATE WINERY
WELCOMING GUESTS - SPRING 2025
Since we first visited Napa Valley as a family in 2007, we knew immediately that this is where we wanted to be. As the third generation of our family business, thinking about the future generations of our family has always been a top priority. When you think of the world of wine, the old world regions like France, Spain, and Italy have been producing wine for thousands of years. There are dozens of generations of the same families tending to the land that has been passed down to them from previous generations. Napa Valley, however, has been producing wine for less than 200 years. This perspective has allowed us to never take for granted the immense responsibility of stewarding our land for our own future generations.
UPDATES - WINTER 2024
This season has brought incredible progress at the ELLMAN Estate Winery. Our 12 custom Cuves Lejeune fermentation tanks now stand as the centerpiece of our winemaking space, with the catwalk above beginning to take shape—a reflection of our dedication to precision, artistry, and care.
We’ve also staked out 2.5 additional acres of vineyard, soon to be planted with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The early stages of this expansion involve thoughtful preparation—selecting the ideal vine row orientation, nurturing the soil, and laying the groundwork for wines that will express the unique character of our estate for years to come.
At every step, we’re ensuring our commitment to sustainability guides the process. BioFiltro, a nature-based environmental solution, allows us to treat and filter winery wastewater responsibly, removing impurities while giving back to the land. Solar panels will power our facilities and equipment, reducing our footprint as we move toward clean, renewable energy. Our estate pond continues to serve as a habitat for wildlife, enhancing the biodiversity of the property.
In the vineyard, thoughtful farming remains a priority. Cover crops replenish soil health and help maintain moisture, while deficit irrigation strategies ensure that water is used intentionally and efficiently. Owl boxes, thoughtfully placed throughout the vineyard, promote responsible pest management by encouraging natural predators to thrive.
Our guest spaces are also beginning to take form. Construction has started on the outdoor deck and seating areas, designed to create a seamless connection between the estate and the land it rests on. Soon, our striking and unique signage will greet you as you arrive, setting the tone for the experience ahead. Adding to the story of the estate, Vincent Da Silva’s South African white rhino sculpture now stands proudly—a
timeless expression of artistry and our heritage.
Looking ahead, we’ll begin planting the new vineyard blocks, installing floor-to-ceiling glass walls in our hospitality spaces, and adding shou sugi ban siding to our culinary kitchen. Final touches to the interiors, including original works from Andy Warhol’s 1979 Grape Series, will complete a space that reflects who we are and what we value.
Every decision we make—whether for our wines, the land, or the spaces we’re creating—centers around care, intention, and sustainability. This is more than construction; it’s about building a place that reflects our deep respect for craft, connection, and the environment we’re fortunate to steward. We can’t wait to share it with you.
ARCHITECTURE
TAYLOR LOMBARDO ARCHITECTS
When we began construction on our family home on our vineyard, we were tasked with finding the best architect to bring our vision to reality.
Napa Valley is full of world-class winery designs from the likes of Howard Backen, Harry P. Johnson, and Kurt Melander. These were obvious candidates for our project. However, when we first spoke to Tom and Maurice of Taylor Lombardo Architecture, we knew we had found the team to create the exact style that resonates best with our family.
Taylor Lombardo Architecture has had their hands in some of the most awe-inspiring residential and winery designs all over the world. What they were able to do with our residence led us to believe there was no one better to work with for the design of Estate—not just to make the structure visually stunning, but also to maximize the functionality of the building.
PRODUCTION
HAND-CRAFTED AT HOME
Since we purchased our vineyard in 2015, our goal has always been to have our estate winery sharing the same land as our vineyards. Knowing that Mother Nature is ever-changing and completely out of our control, having a full estate project gives us control in the only place we can ever really have it: the cellar.
With our winemaking team led by Andy Erickson, we are confident we will create something truly exceptional here. They have already started sourcing the most state-of-the-art production equipment for our cellar. From optical sorters, fermentation tanks, and ultra-premium barrels, to everything in between, this equipment will help us with our primary focus to be intentional in every step of the production process. Our team is focused on sustainability, minimizing waste, and respecting the land all while improving the quality of our wine.
The opportunity to experiment with our brand is also part of our vision. We want to be challenged to always think outside the box. Whether it's with microlots, limited production runs, different varietal compositions, or anything else that pushes us to strive for constant improvement, having this space will make all of this a possibility.
EXPERIENCE
WELCOME TO ELLMAN ESTATE
The ELLMAN Estate will be a space not only to master our craft, but also to welcome all those who seek us out. Our focus will always be to create the most thoughtful, warm, hospitable, and intentional wine experience in Napa Valley. Pretension simply cannot have a seat at the table during our experiences as we seek to create a space that welcomes wine lovers at every stage of their journey—from novice guests to connoisseurs who take pride in their world-class collections. At ELLMAN, you can always expect to be treated with nothing less than respect and attention. We share the idea of "unreasonable hospitality," understanding that one size does not fit all when it comes to experiencing Napa Valley.
We make the choice to refuse to be jaded every day, taking small moments to reflect on this breathtaking region. We do this to ensure we can and will always share in the excitement of our guests and collectors whether they visit for their first time or their tenth. Welcoming you to our home to share our passion and excitement is the goal. Today and everyday.
EVENTS AND COLLABORATIONS
MORE THAN JUST TASTINGS
The world of wine is intertwined in most every aspect of life. Whether it's language, history, geology, topography, the culinary world, or the arts, we look to create a place where the collaborative mind is also a cornerstone of the process. From hosting artist residences, fashion releases, music events, and so much more, this will be a place to push the boundaries of what a winery can be.
Whatever collaborations we bring to life, we will always make sure that wine and Napa Valley are the inspiration. We will create many special events to share with our guests in the coming years. First and most important, our grand unveiling. More details to come.
THANK YOU
LET'S STAY IN TOUCH
As of today, we have our sights set on opening the ELLMAN Estate winery just before harvest in 2025. Stay in touch as we approach the date for more updates and invitations to visit.Â