Stave 28 started as many wineries do with a dream and some
trials and tribulations. This story however goes a bit further back.To create Stave 28, Michael drew upon a nearly 20-year history in the
wine business – as an importer, educator, buyer and restaurant owner. While living in Chicago, he would procure grapes from California and have them shipped in refrigerated trucks
each September in order to experiment with home winemaking. During this time, he had the
opportunity to work harvests in Washington and California, and the hobby
quickly became a passion. A few years later, Michael relocated to Napa to pursue his dream of making his own
wine. Working as a barrel
consultant to wineries across the country, Michael enjoys the unique position
of furthering his knowledge of the finest wines in the America and abroad. Many gifted and generous winemakers
have shared their vision with Michael, inspiring him to continue on his own
winemaking journey with Stave 28.
The Winemaker
Michael Weyna, Owner of Stave 28.
Michael has no interest in making exactly the same wine every year. Authentic wine tells the story of each harvest. "The ephemeral quality of harvest is something to discover and experience. It's never the same, the wine is not supposed to be either" Michael insists. "I was different in 2005 than I was in 2007, the weather was different and the fruit was certainly different. These aspects must be harnessed and funneled into the glass. It's the process of wine making that I enjoy. I don't expect my wines to fall into a category. I prefer that they have personality. We as humans are far more interesting in part because of the unique and even odd people we may encounter along the way. This reflects the color of life." Michael believes we should color our palates by imbibing unique wines and enjoying great homemade cuisine. Michael and his wife Dara and son Levi live, work and play together, appreciating the seasonal existence in the winemaking community of Napa, California.
The Partner and Co-Conspirator
Rob Mintz, Co-Owner
Rob has known Michael for over 15 years and has been enjoying his wines from the beginning. Their great friendship led Rob to an appreciation of fine wines and ultimately to participate in the formation of Stave 28. He feels it’s a privilege to present these uniquely crafted wines to the world. In addition to enjoying artisan wines, Rob practices corporate, finance and banking law in the Chicago office of an international law firm. Rob enjoys life with his lovely wife Sara and three children Mikey, Joey and Phoebe.