The Robert Mondavi Institute courtyard came alive at the UC Davis Alumni Wine Showcase. UC Davis alumni winemakers gathered to pour, connect, and celebrate their shared foundation in the Department of Viticulture and Enology. The event showcased the strength of the UC Davis wine network, from icons like Schramsberg Vineyards, Silver Oak Cellars, St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, and Williams Selyem, to rising stars like Great Bear Vineyards, Eco Terreno, Forgotten Union Wines, and others.

Alumni Pour It Forward

For many alumni, pouring at the showcase was about more than just sharing their wines; it was about giving back to the department that helped shape their journeys. 

For Aimée Sunseri of Nichelini Family Winery the motivation was gratitude. “We want to give back to the program that gave so much to us,” said Sunseri, as she poured selections from her family’s historic Napa Valley estate. 

Jessica Koga from Schramsberg Vineyards shared a similar sentiment. As she poured Schramsberg’s Blanc de Blancs, Brut Rosé, and Davies Cabernet, Koga reflected on how a UC Davis post-graduation internship at Schramsberg helped launch her career. 

Kenny Likitprakong and Lynn Wheeler of Hobo Wine Company were excited to return as well, bringing organic wines crafted with Chenin Blanc, Aligoté, Valdiguié, and Pinot Noir. “Being back on campus feels great. Davis was foundational,” said Kenny. Lynn agreed, “It’s our first time back and we’re happy to be here.”  

Chris Louton, a winemaker at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, didn’t start college planning to make wine. His path changed by chance when he took a random elective called ‘Introduction to Winemaking’. He returned to campus to pour his 2023 Sonoma Valley Sauvignon Blanc and reconnect with the department that sparked his passion. 

For Jeff Mangahas of Williams Selyem, returning to UC Davis is about fostering community. His studies at Davis helped him connect the dots from molecular biology to Pinot Noir mastery. Today, he mentors students in VEN127L, a hands-on wine processing course, while continuing to craft acclaimed wines like Westside Road Neighbors Pinot Noir. “It’s a good chance to give back and stay connected,” he said. 

Jenny Smith of Great Bear Vineyards spoke highly of UC Davis’ ongoing role in their success. From wildfire research from the Oberholster lab to tasting sessions with experts like Dr. Andy Waterhouse, she said, “UC Davis has been holding our hand from the start.” She poured an impressive line-up of award-winning wines, including their Tempranillo Reserve and Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve.

Matt and Erin Cline of Three Wine Company poured their passion for historic California varietals, with Matt’s background in enology at UC Davis helping shape their approach. “I want to show what California wine used to be and still could be,” Matt shared. “Pouring for curious students and alumni is the best audience you could ask for.”

Students Step Into the Spotlight

At the Department of Viticulture and Enology Organization (DEVO) table, students proudly poured wines they had crafted in class. From fining and filtering to stabilizing, bottling, and labeling, they handled it all with guidance from industry experts like Jeff Mangahas. They were excited to share that these student-made wines will be available for sale for the first time this June.

The lineup included a vibrant Sauvignon Blanc made by Sydney Rodgers and Vincent Powell, a smooth and balanced Albariño from Nikita Kodjak and Donna Kato, and a crisp Chardonnay from Rachel Smith and Mirjam Fischer. Their passion and skill were evident in every glass. These were real wines, made by students ready to step into the industry. 

Aggies Uncorked Wine Club

Beyond the wine, the showcase created exciting opportunities for students and the public to explore exciting possibilities in the wine industry through groups like DEVO, Women in Wine, Cal Aggie Alumni Association (CAAA), and the Aggies Uncorked Wine Club.

“Being here helps us bridge the gap, connect with winemakers, taste their wines, and see what’s possible,” said Naomi Morales, a senior in the Department of Viticulture and Enology. 

Another highlight? A blind tasting challenge. Guests tested their palates through sensory exercises and a digital quiz. “It’s about making people think and have fun at the same time,” said Ryan Crosbie, Director of the Aggies Uncorked Wine Club. “It’s also a great way to spotlight the wines crafted by our alumni.” 

All of the wines in the challenge were crafted by UC Davis winemakers and are available through the Aggies Uncorked Wine Club, which features wines made by alumni. “It’s for anyone who wants to know more about UC Davis wine,” Crosbie added. 

Pouring Pride and Building Futures 

The UC Davis Alumni Wine Showcase celebrated where UC Davis wine is and where it’s going next. From alumni pouring their passion to students crafting their first vintages, the evening was full of shared beginnings, mutual respect, and the kind of mentorship that keeps the future of wine bright.  

With curiosity, collaboration, and care, UC Davis isn’t just continuing a legacy; it’s leading wine into a vibrant, dynamic future. 

Visit these pages for more information: Aggies Uncorked Wine Club, Cal Aggie Alumni Association, Robert Mondavi Institute events.