As the Director of Winemaking at Fayard Wines, working directly under our winemaker, Julien Fayard, Camille Gaïo has become an integral part of the Taplin team, and we’d love for you to get to know her better.

Where are you from originally, and what brought you to Napa Valley?

I’m originally from the French Alps, and I came to Napa Valley after working harvest experiences all over the world – Australia, France, New Zealand, and other parts of California. I came to Napa through a family connection with Julien, and was drawn by the opportunity to discover the Napa Valley.

How long have you worked for Fayard Wines, and what is your role there? 

I started working at Fayard Wines in 2011 as a harvest intern, and since then have risen through the company to my current role as Director of Winemaking. In this role I manage the day-to-day operations of the wineries and spearhead the research and development of innovative technologies for both our winemaking and winery management.

What drew you to winemaking as a career, and what was your path to where you are today?

My background is that I have classic culinary training. I studied in French and Swiss culinary schools and worked in several Michelin-starred establishments. I began my career in the kitchen and then transitioned to working as a Sommelier. Spending time with different producers sparked my passion for winemaking, leading me back to school to study viticulture and production.

What do you like the most about working on the Taplin wines?

The history of the estate and family, rooted in a genuine multigenerational vision, something that is all too rare today, and the vineyard’s evolution and the growing precision in the winemaking over the years.

What is your favorite kind of wine to drink when you are not drinking wines that you made?

The Northern Rhône Valley Syrah where I’m from, and where my family first introduced me to wine at an early age – like my very own Madeleine de Proust.