Dana Estates’ vice president Pete Perry announced the promotion of Cameron Vawter to winemaker for the Rutherford-based Cabernet house. Vawter previously held the position of director of production at Dana and was the winery’s first employee in 2005. He has been an instrumental part of the winemaking team since the winery’s inception and also oversaw the construction of the Howard Backen-designed winery, which was completed in 2008. Additionally, along with Philippe Melka, Vawter crafted both the 2007 and 2010 “Lotus Vineyard” Cabernet Sauvignons, both of which received 100-point scores in The Wine Advocate and have drawn praise from other critics and wine writers, as well.

Hi Sang Lee, proprietor of Dana Estates, commented that “Cameron plays a very valuable role at Dana Estates, and I believe that in his new position as winemaker Cameron will take us to next level and will make even better wines.”

Philippe Melka will continue to consult for Dana and will serve as director of winemaking.

About Dana Estates

Founded in 2005 by Korean businessman Hi Sang Lee, Dana Estates has quickly established itself to be one of the world’s leading Cabernet houses. Classic winemaking techniques are blended with the winery’s cutting-edge technology. In conjunction with proprietors Lee and Jae Chun, an all-star winemaking and viticultural team, including respected wine industry players Philippe Melka, Pete Richmond and Cameron Vawter, have created an unparalleled operation in the famed Rutherford appellation, in the heart of Napa Valley. Three unique vineyards yield three distinct wines, which are made in limited quantities and with a meticulous attention to detail. A limited amount of wine is produced each year, which is primarily sold to the winery’s mailing list and select restaurants in the United States.