Our new 2003 Benz Family Vineyard cabernet owes its delicious and full-bodied taste to Philippe Langer. As Winemaker at Sullivan Vineyards, Philippe Langner works closely with General Manager Sean Sullivan to create elegant, age-worthy wines from the Sullivan Vineyards' Rutherford Estate.  Intrigued by the great potential of the Sullivan Vineyards' estate, Philippe joined winemaking operations in 2001.  He has since contributed significant expertise and knowledge to both the vineyard and winemaking operations.

Trained by some of Bordeaux's most respected enologists, Michel hel Rolland and Jacques Boissenot, Philippe was first introduced to the Sullivan family through his Bordeaux contacts. During his first harvest in 2001, he independently produced one tank of Merlot from the family's grapes. The result was a huge success! Immediately, the family asked Philippe to accept a permanent position at the winery, where his innovations in both grape growing and winemaking have been become essential.

 

Philippe's professional history includes four years at Chateau Clarke, a Rothschild family property in Bordeaux.  In addition, he spent three months at Fredericksburg, a Rupert and Rothschild joint venture in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa.  He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy as well as dual Master's of Science degrees in Agronomy and Agricultural Economics, both from the University of California at Davis.