Capiaux Cellars

Sean Capiaux, founder and winemaker of Capiaux Cellars, has built a distinguished career in the wine industry, renowned for his expertise in crafting exceptional Pinot Noir wines that reflect California’s diverse terroirs.

Sean Capiaux graduated from California State University, Fresno, with a Bachelor of Science in Enology and a minor in Chemistry. He began his winemaking career at Jordan Winery in Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley, where he worked for two years. Seeking international experience, Capiaux joined Houghton Winery near Perth in Western Australia, further broadening his winemaking perspective.

Upon returning to the United States, he served as assistant winemaker at Pine Ridge Winery in Napa Valley’s Stags Leap District for two years. He then joined Peter Michael Winery in Calistoga as assistant winemaker, where he worked for nearly five years.

In 1994, while at Peter Michael Winery, Capiaux launched his own label, Capiaux Cellars, focusing on small-lot, single-vineyard Pinot Noir. He sourced fruit from premier vineyards in California, emphasizing the unique characteristics of each site. Capiaux’s winemaking philosophy centers on minimal intervention, utilizing native yeast fermentations and French oak barrels to enhance complexity while allowing the fruit to express its inherent qualities.

In addition to his role at Capiaux Cellars, Sean Capiaux serves as the winemaker for O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery in Napa Valley’s Howell Mountain appellation, where he crafts world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. His commitment to sustainable farming and thoughtful winemaking practices ensures that his wines not only reflect the land but also respect it.

Capiaux’s dedication to quality and innovation has solidified his reputation as a versatile and accomplished winemaker, with Capiaux Cellars standing as a benchmark producer of California Pinot Noir.