Jurgen and Marie Schutz met in 1988. Jurgen owned a ranch on Atlas Peak, and had always been a country man at heart. Marie, a sophisticated city dweller, was not exactly anxious to experience country living. Often she would comment to Jurgen: “Darling, I love you, but give me Park Avenue.” “Fresh Air,” was his rebuttal. Jurgen won. Love conquered all. Despite her protests, Marie allowed herself to be swept off her feet and placed on top of the mountain, where the two were married.

Once in wine country, it seemed only natural to plant grapes. After a few years, the Schutzes came to the realization that they were growing some of Napa Valley’s finest fruit. In these early years the Cabernet and Merlot, was sold to other wineries. Constantly surrounded now by grapes and vineyards, Marie found herself more and more drawn to the winemaking process, and what had once been merely a side project turned into a fiery passion. Thus, the Dominari label was born, its vintage debut in 2001. The name stems from the Latin verb meaning to practice superiority, and that is just what the Dominari commitment to wine drinkers all over the world is — producing only the best of the best. Marie Schutz is now the principal winemaker and has earned dozens of accolades and awards for her wines.

After building the original winery in the industrial area of South Napa, the Schutzes weren’t happy with their surroundings, no vineyards, no ambiance. Forging a partnership with friends and partners, Michael Perri, a retired Wells Fargo executive, and his wife, Marieann Perri, of Scoma’s Restaurant, the four purchased a new property at Trancas and Big Ranch Road in Napa, a property previously owned by golf pro Johnny Miller. Together they built a progressive leading edge custom crush, tasting room and winery facility, where current and reserve tastings are now held daily. The beautiful new winery boasts a wide variety of tasting experiences. Relax at our tasting bar, sit down for a more formal food and wine pairing, grab a bottle and enjoy a picnic, or throw a party! We look forward to meeting you, and welcoming you at the winery soon.

Our Staff:
Marie Schutz, Chief Executive Officer and Winemaker
Jurgen Schutz, Founder and Director of Property Operations
Devin Jones, Assistant Winemaker
Alexandra Walsh, Director of Marketing and Tasting Room Sales
Keith Allan, Director of Domestic and International Sales
Michaela Franz, Domestic Business Development Accounts Manager