Stories of the nominees

A New Chapter for Cathiard Vineyard

USA

Cathiard Vineyard, known for its refined wines in the heart of Napa Valley, has announced a new addition to its team – talented winemaker Alban Trouvé, who previously built his reputation in Bordeaux. Cathiard Vineyard is a Wine Travel Awards nominee in the category Visiting Card of the Country/Art & History Object.

Trouvé brings with him deep expertise, particularly in crafting custom oak barrels, which play a key role in shaping the character of Cathiard’s wines. A standout aspect of this collaboration will be the launch of a new cooperage on the estate itself, allowing the team to oversee the barrel-aging process more closely and further refine wine quality.

“Having Alban join us is an important step forward,” said a Cathiard Vineyard representative. “His skill and passion for cooperage will help take our wines to the next level.”

Trouvé’s arrival coincided with a milestone moment for the estate: in June 2025, Cathiard Vineyard took part in The Judgment of Caudalie, a prestigious blind tasting held in London. The event, a modern take on the legendary 1976 Judgment of Paris, featured Cathiard’s wines alongside top-tier California Cabernets – long considered benchmarks for red wine.

The founding brothers of the winery have earned high praise from critics, including Anthony Rose of The Independent. This recognition highlights the winery’s growing reputation and its ability to combine Bordeaux heritage with Napa Valley innovation.

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Source: worldoffinewine.com, napawineproject.com