The world-renowned Napa Valley is a community where dreams flourish and wine reigns, where vintners such as Taylor Berkley Boydstun craft terroir-driven wines showcasing a true sense of place within each vintage.
Inspired by cultural influence, Taylor was introduced to the world of wine while studying abroad in both Spain and France in 2008. Upon returning, Taylor moved to the West Coast from Illinois, joining AmeriCorps and the National Park Service in 2009. Fortuitously, his adventurous spirit led to touring the Napa Valley during harvest that same year. Little did he know that fateful time of exploration would be his guiding light to a career embedded in wine and viticulture.
“I started with a viticultural apprentice- ship in the rural hinterlands of Central Otago in New Zealand. That education springboarded my career. From there, I worked in Northern California, Australia, and Austria,” explained Boydstun. “I have been fortunate to study under many exceptional and influential winemakers and viticulturists around the world.”
In 2016, Taylor launched T. Berkley Wines, focusing on Loire-inspired varietals and highlighting Taylor’s first love, Cabernet Franc. Named in commemoration of his maternal grandfather Jack Berkley, T. Berkley Wines sources both Cabernet Franc and old vine Chenin Blanc. “These wines are inspired by the best of the Loire, made under the California sunshine,” said Boydstun.
In 2018, Taylor’s journey broadened. Accepting the head Winemaking position with Teachworth Napa Valley, Taylor was tasked with overseeing the day-to-day operations, winemaking, and vineyard management for the boutique wine brand. A passion-driven project, Teachworth Napa Valley celebrates the love of Walter and Joan Teachworth. Originally from Galveston, Texas, the Teachworth’s moved to the Napa Valley in 1991 and shortly after that purchased and planted their namesake estate on the slopes of Quail Mountain in the Diamond Mountain District.
Walter designed and built a craft winery on the property, intending to produce ultra-premium estate Napa Valley Cabernets. Working with founding Winemaker Phil Steinschriber, Teachworth Napa Valley was born in 2000.
Today Walter and Joan’s children, Chris and Laura Teachworth, have taken the helm. Carrying on their parents’ legacy, the Teachworth’s dedication to making small production, premium wines has led them to join forces with Taylor Berkley Boydstun. Together, they have expanded the portfolio to include Pinot Noir and an upcoming Mountain Cabernet Series.
Crafting the wines for both Teachworth and T. Berkley Wines on the property, the complimentary wine labels showcase the versatility and strength behind Taylor’s genius. Guests are invited to book a private tasting and tour led by Taylor for an un- forgettable experience in the Napa Valley, embodying both terroir and artistry with each sip.
TEACHWORTH NAPA VALLEY & T. BERKLEY WINES
4451 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA // 707-942-8432 // teachworthcabs.com // tberkleywines.com
Article By: Valerie Owens
