3 Sticks Family Cellars

An investor in many wine ventures over the past 20 years – including Chateau St. Jean, Kistler Vineyards and Kosta Browne – Bill founded Three Sticks in 2002 in his quest to create world class wines from his Durell Vineyard.

Today, that vision has expanded to other remarkable vineyard sites in the famed Sonoma Valley.

“I’ve always loved how at its best, wine is a hand crafted product, reflecting everything that goes into it, the type of grape, the vineyard, the weather and of course the people who create it."

Don Van Staaveren, our winemaker, has a relationship with Durell Vineyard that spans over twenty five years and a winemaking pedigree that includes helping to create Chateau St. Jean’s 1996 Cinq Cépages, Wine Spectator’s ‘No. 1 Wine in the World’ in 1999.

“We do not crush grapes. I have not crushed a single grape since 1990, deliberately. It’s simply about beginning with ripe grapes and gently guiding them into mouth-watering wines that show off the variety and the vineyard.”

Tracey Bledsoe approaches winemaking from a scientific viewpoint, having earned her MS in Microbiology from UC Davis and refining her craft at Artesa Winery where her primary focus was on the production of world-class Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. The creation of small lot, premium wines is her passion.

“I became familiar with the Viticulture and Enology program through my graduate students. They eventually convinced me to attend some seminars and tastings. I was hooked! This was the first time I connected the sensory experience with the science behind it.”

One of the most experienced growers in Sonoma County, Steve managed Durell Vineyard since the first vine was planted in 1979 through 2010 and continues to work with our team. He consistently cultivated exceptional grapes for iconic wineries such as Kistler, Patz & Hall, Chasseur, Chateau St. Jean, Loring, Tor, Lioco and Realm.

“I’ve always had a strong belief in cultivating wines with a minimalist approach. The volcanic rocky soil and cool climate of Durell are ideal for producing premium, luxury–brand wine grapes.”

After earning his B.S. in Agricultural Economics at UC Davis and spending years in corporate wine growing, Rob came to Durell in 2009. As the newest member of the family, his goal is to intertwine new technologies and hard science with the history and tradition that make Durell Vineyard so precious.

“As it applies to agriculture and viticulture, I believe sustainability is defined by an intersection of three elements, known as the ‘Three E’s’ – Environmentally Sound, Economic Feasibility and Socially Equitable.”

Prema has been with Three Sticks since its first release in 2004 – selling wine, sorting grapes, producing events,< drinking wine and warming hearts.

Her experiences in private equity, non–profit endeavors and within the hospitality industry have proven to be invaluable assets in her stewardship of Three Sticks Wines.

“My enjoyment, understanding and exaltation of fine wine and food has given me an innate sense for genuine, understated luxury – critical to understanding our clients needs.”

Scott Forrest
National Sales Manager

Scott brings well over two decades of food and wine industry insight to his role overseeing sales for Three Sticks. His extensive industry experience has enabled him to not only create standards for Three Sticks but to leverage important trade and wholesaler relationships throughout North America.
“It’s so gratifying to be a part of a project where the level of commitment to excellence is so heightened. Thanks to all the invaluable support we’ve received from our growing mailing list, discerning trade “partners” and our wholesalers”.