Zach Watkins, Winemaker

As winemaker for Louis M. Martini, Zach continues a long legacy of exceptional winemaking at this historic Napa Valley estate as he demonstrates his artistic ability for crafting wines that embody the perfect balance of tradition and modernity.

Zach’s father, a contractor, instilled in him an early appreciation for craftsmanship. The foundational value of “if you’re going to do it, do it right” was embedded in Zach from a young age, profoundly shaping his sense of self and the way he approaches his craft.

While studying microbiology at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Zach developed a fascination with fermentation and its products. Immersed in a renowned wine region, he pursued his passion by taking courses in wine and viticulture, working his first harvest, and continually refining his technical skills and deepening his understanding of the science and artistry of winemaking. After graduating, Zach set out on a journey to broaden his horizons and gain diverse experiences in the wine industry.

Now completing his fifth vintage with Martini, Zach brings over a decade of winemaking experience to his role. Respectful of the legacy he will continue to build at Martini, he is excited to add his own personality and creative lens to the portfolio. “My goal is to craft a collection of wines that lends itself to the holistic wine experience,” says Zach. “It’s an honor to continue working alongside the amazing team here as we work together to uphold the Martini winemaking standards that have spanned generations.” And although choosing a favorite wine depends on the time and place for Zach, he is most excited about the Monte Rosso Cabernet Franc followed closely by Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon.

Zach’s enthusiasm for winemaking blends beautifully with his interests in the arts. He brings his past studies of philosophy, anthropology, ancient literature and art history into the vineyard. “When making Cabernet, I like to think about how the vineyard and the wine it creates relates to different classical art periods. There’s an emotional impression each vineyard conveys when walking through the vines. For example, Mount Veeder is certainly post-impressionism…Van Gogh comes to mind.”

Outside the winery, Zach can often be found exploring, camping and hiking untouched landscapes, while his at-home life is busy with DIY renovations and creating a farm-to-table lifestyle by raising chickens and lambs. He also enjoys the precision of archery, a practice that fosters an enticing internal competition for him.