Cecilia Valdivia

Head Winemaker

I was born and raised in Mendoza, Argentina (the largest winemaking region in Latin America). I pursued my education at the University of Mendoza, ultimately earning a bachelor, major and  Master’s degree in science and Agricultural Engineering and my Enology in UC Davis. I then apprenticed at Trapiche, a Mendoza winery famed for its Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. This was followed by positions at both Bodega Chandon and Doña Paula Argentina, where I gained additional knowledge of the intricacies of harvest. After three years of experience in Argentina, I relocated to Sonoma County in 2003 with the desire of learning about the winemaking techniques used in another noted wine region. After an extensive internship at St. Francis Winery, I became the enologist at Pellegrini Winery. In 2008 I started my journal at Deerfield Ranch Winery today as a head winemaker. I joined this wonderful adventure Robert Rex, one of the best mentors and a father figure for me. Robert and I work together with passion and love for what we do.

I am a very proud mom of 3 girls, Ariella 17, Emilia 14, Camila 12. In my free time I love to spend time with my girls, I love running half marathons, hiking Annabel park, and walking the vineyards all year long.