VINIUM

On my first trip to Napa Valley as a young retailer of Fine Wines, I remember sipping a flute of Domaine Mumm, while looking out from the deck of Auberge du Soleil and thinking, "Napa Valley would be a nice place for me to retire to someday!"

After many wondrous years in the industry in Massachusetts, working with top winemakers and teaching an entire generation about the benefits of Napa Valley's magnificent wines - and the amazing people who would leave their mark for future generations to thrive here. Fate would have it: Twenty-five years later, I would migrate to California, a few years later, to the beautiful Napa Valley.

Since 2016, I have worked with growers and winemakers, as a Negociant*, making wines from single vineyards in Oakville, Rutherford, St Helena, Oak Knoll, and Chiles Valley, under several unique brands that were offered in small lots to individual retailers.

The Negociant model was always intriguing to me; *Negotiants buy excess fruit and/or juice, and blend them to make wines of their own; Think Joseph Drouhin, Louis Latour, and Louis Jadot in Burgundy.

VINIUM would become the brand that would represent the best wine available from each vineyard I would work with. I hope you enjoy our wines as much as I have enjoyed the journey to make them for you!

In 1989, I embarked on a journey to Napa Valley for the first time, filled with excitement and curiosity as a young retailer eager to explore the world of wine. That initial visit ignited a passion within me, leading me to pursue my dream of making wines in this iconic region. Now, 35 years later, I find myself living that dream, immersed in the vibrant culture of winemaking. Each day, I work tirelessly to craft exceptional wines that capture the essence of Napa Valley, drawing inspiration from the stunning landscapes and rich heritage that surrounds me. This journey has not only fulfilled my aspirations but has also allowed me to connect with fellow wine lovers who share my enthusiasm for this beautiful corner of the world.

VINIUM'S ROOTS

Vinium from Latin Vinea (vine) and Optimum (best) represents our commitment to producing the highest quality wines, focusing on the excellence of the vines, and allowing the grape to express itself with minimum manipulation from the winemaking process..

A word from Richard Cardoza - Proprietor

Richard Cardoza - Proprietor