Céline is owned by the Cline family—yep, those wine-loving folks who've been making amazing wines since the 1980s! Fred and Nancy Cline kicked things off in 1982, and now their kids, Hilary and Henry, are taking the reins. How cool is that? They're super committed to making wine sustainably, plus they've got a whole team that keeps everything running smoothly. From crafting unique small-batch wines to managing vineyards, each of the seven siblings pitches in! Isn't it inspiring to see family tradition and passion in action? Stick around, and you'll uncover even more about their fantastic journey!
Cline Family Heritage

The Cline family's heritage in winemaking spans over four decades, rooted deeply in a tradition that dates back to the 1880s. Can you imagine the stories those old vines could tell? Founded by Fred and Nancy Cline in 1982, Cline Family Cellars is nestled in Oakley, California, where the original plantings of Mourvèdre, Zinfandel, and Carignane still thrive. Fred learned the art of winemaking from his grandfather, passing down not just skills, but a love for the land.
With a strong commitment to sustainability, the Cline family has made their vineyard a home. They've raised seven kids on the property—talk about a family affair! Now, the next generation, including Hilary and Henry Cline, is stepping up, taking on important roles in sales and vineyard management. Isn't that amazing? You can feel the passion in every bottle they produce.
This family-centered approach keeps the Cline legacy alive and thriving. So next time you enjoy a glass of Cline wine, remember the rich history behind it, rooted in love, hard work, and a commitment to future generations! Cheers to that!
Leadership Structure
At the helm of Cline Family Cellars is a dynamic leadership structure that reflects both experience and family values. Fred Cline founded the winery in 1982, and he served as CEO until July 2020, when John Grant took over the reins. With over 30 years of industry experience, John brings a fresh perspective while honoring the legacy Fred built. Isn't it great to see such smooth shifts?
Hilary Cline, Fred's daughter, joined the family business in 2015 and is making waves in sales. Plus, she's launched the Gust brand alongside her sister Megan. Talk about keeping it in the family!
The leadership team doesn't stop there. Tom Gendall serves as the Director of Winemaking & Viticulture, ensuring that the vineyard produces ideal fruit. And with Enrique Hurtado managing the vineyards and Mary leading the Direct to Consumer team, they've got a solid crew.
This blend of family ties and professional expertise makes Cline Family Cellars a true standout in the wine industry. So, whether you're sipping their wine or just admiring their journey, you can feel the passion in every bottle!
Second Generation Involvement

Passion for winemaking runs deep in the Cline family, especially as the second generation steps into key roles. Hilary Cline, for instance, joined the family business in 2015, bringing her experience from Sonoma County, New Zealand, and Napa. Isn't it cool how she's focusing on sales while keeping family values at the forefront? Along with her sister Megan, she launched the Gust brand, creating small-batch wines like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah.
But it's not just Hilary making waves. Henry Cline oversees the viticulture team, diving into vineyard redevelopment efforts. He's even managing a newly-leased Chardonnay vineyard in Petaluma Gap. Talk about commitment!
With seven independent and creative siblings, the second generation involvement is all about collaboration and fresh ideas. Each one contributes uniquely to the winery's operations and future direction. Who wouldn't want to be part of such an exciting family dynamic? Their dedication to winemaking and the values they uphold truly show that the Cline family isn't just about the wine; it's about building a legacy together. Cheers to that!
Sustainable Practices
With a strong commitment to sustainability, Cline Family Cellars has embraced environmentally friendly practices that reflect their values and dedication to the land. You'll find that they're certified California Sustainable and Sonoma County Sustainable, which is pretty impressive! So, what does this mean for you as a wine lover?
Cline Family Cellars uses cover crops and compost teas to nourish their soil, promoting healthy vine growth without relying on synthetic fertilizers. Plus, they've got sheep in the vineyards, munching on weeds instead of using herbicides. Isn't that clever? It creates a natural ecosystem while keeping things green and clean.
They also prioritize a pesticide-free environment, ensuring safety for the kids who grow up playing on the vineyard property. Talk about a family-friendly approach! By focusing on sustainable practices, they're not just thinking about today; they're preserving the land's integrity for future generations.
Doesn't it feel good knowing that when you enjoy a bottle from Cline Family Cellars, you're supporting a winery that truly cares about the planet? Cheers to that!
Winery Expansion and Impact

Cline Family Cellars' commitment to sustainability has laid a strong foundation for its expansion and impact in the wine industry. Since 1989, when they bought a 350-acre horse farm in Sonoma-Carneros, they've been on a roll. You can see this dedication in their original plantings of Mourvèdre and their ongoing vineyard expansion throughout Sonoma County. It's not just about size, though; it's about quality!
Starting with Rhone varietals, they've expanded to include classics like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, making their portfolio even more appealing. And let's not forget the Gust brand, launched by Hilary and Megan Cline in 2015. This small-batch wine project shows how the family's creativity and passion have blossomed.
Being one of the few remaining family-owned wineries in the area gives Cline Family Cellars a unique connection to the community. This connection fuels their sustainability-focused practices, making every bottle not just a drink, but a story. So, next time you sip a Cline wine, remember, you're enjoying a legacy of love for the land and the craft. How cool is that?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is the CEO of Cline Cellars?
You're asking about Cline Cellars' CEO, who's John Grant. He embraces wine industry trends and sustainable practices, focusing on innovation and collaboration with the Cline family to enhance the winery's quality and long-term vision.
What Is the History of Cline Cellars?
Cline Cellars' origins trace back to 1982, when Fred and Nancy Cline began wine production in Oakley. They've since expanded their vineyard in Sonoma-Carneros, focusing on sustainable practices and diverse grape varietals for quality wines.
Who Is Fred Cline?
Fred Cline, a vineyard management expert, founded Cline Family Cellars, focusing on sustainable practices. His passion for winemaking parallels the creativity in Célines fashion, showcasing dedication to quality and family traditions across both industries.
Who Owns Jacuzzi Winery?
You'll find that Jacuzzi Winery's ownership structure revolves around the Jacuzzi family, emphasizing their dedication to wine production. They craft Italian varietals, ensuring a unique experience that reflects their heritage and passion for winemaking.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Céline isn't just a fancy name; it's a family affair with roots that run deep. From the leadership to their eco-friendly practices, the Cline family really cares about their winery and making a positive impact. When you sip on a glass, you're not just enjoying a drink; you're tasting a legacy! Isn't that cool? Next time you raise a glass, think of the story behind it. Cheers to that!