David Perata new Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards general manager
Oct 5, 2007 10:22 AM
David Perata, 45, has been named general manager at Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards.
Perata most recently served as director of California vineyard operations for Brown-Forman, which owns Sonoma-Cutrer and other California wineries. He managed more than 3,200 acres of California vineyards in five growing regions, including vineyards using organic and biodynamic viticultural practices. In 2000, he joined Fetzer Vineyards, another Brown-Forman winery, as director of viticultural projects, including overseeing the acquisition and development of more than 1,000 acres of potential vineyard land and programs dedicated to increasing vineyard and wine quality.
Tim Nall, general manager for Brown-Forman’s California wine operations, said Perata will continue to help oversee California vineyard operations for Brown-Forman, even while focusing on Sonoma-Cutrer. Nall noted that current vice president and general manager Keith Lavine, who joined Sonoma-Cutrer in 1995, resigned. “Keith’s long history with Sonoma-Cutrer has shown him to be an exceptional leader and manager, and he leaves the winery and brand well positioned to enjoy continuing success,” said Nall.
“David worked closely with Keith, and has been an integral part of Sonoma-Cutrer’s relentless focus on exceptional vineyards, and this transition will be seamless,” said Nall.
Perata, is a fourth-generation Napa grape grower, graduated from the University of California, Davis with a BS in Viticulture. He serves on the Yountville Appellation board of directors.
His career assignments have included managing estate vineyards for Stags Leap, redeveloping vineyards for Estancia in Alexander Valley and managing the North Coast vineyards of Franciscan Estates.
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