Trujillo Wines

Michael Trujillo

Michael discovered his passion for winemaking in the early 1980s during a spring break from his college studies as an engineer. On a road trip to California, he stayed with a family friend who had a small winery in Napa Valley. It was a life- changing visit, as Michael began to work alongside Jim Allen and his brother Steve in the planting of Sequoia Grove’s vineyard on the Rutherford Bench. For his namesake wine, Michael blends grapes from several of the finest vineyards in Napa Valley and works closely with the growers in developing cultivation practices that yield notable fruit year after year. Trujillo Cabernet Sauvignon is the realization of Michael’s history, knowledge and experience, bringing his keen love of the vineyard together with more than 34 years of winemaking proficiency.

When Michael launched Trujillo Wines, the inaugural 2011 vintage sold out quickly, inspiring him to create a second label showcasing varietal blends. Named in honor of his daughter, Sophia Madelyn, these wines are approachable upon release. Trujillo’s quaint, award-winning (and dog-friendly!) tasting room is located in the heart of St. Helena. Visitors have the chance to taste a range of exclusive wines from a white wine blend to limited production vineyard designate wines and reserve Cabernets. Michael recently resigned as the Director of Winemaking and President of Sequoia Grove Winery to put all his focus to Trujillo Wines and family. His wines consistently earn praise and winemaking medals, and have developed an enthusiastic following.

Our delicious Mendocino Syrah was pulled for replant last year. However, we were able to secure new fruit from the cooler Mendocino region, Sangiovese. With the addition of Grenache, Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer, this Rosé blend lends itself to elevated aromas and balance. I am extremely pleased to say that I have triumphed in the creation of our 2019 Madelyn Rose to be perfectly consistent to those I have made past.