André Tchelistcheff facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
André Tchelistcheff
|
|
|---|---|
Monument to André Tchelistcheff in Napa, California
|
|
| Born | December 7, 1901 |
| Died | April 5, 1994 |
| Nationality | Russian |
| Occupation | Winemaker |
André Tchelistcheff (born December 7, 1901 – died April 5, 1994) was a very important winemaker in America. Many people called him the "dean of American winemakers." He helped shape the style of the best California wines, especially Cabernet Sauvignon.
André was a mentor to many famous winemakers. These included Robert Mondavi and Louis Martini. He also advised Warren Winiarski when he started Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. This winery made a famous wine that won a top award in the 1976 "Judgement of Paris" wine tasting.
Contents
André Tchelistcheff's Early Life
Childhood and Education
André Tchelistcheff was born in Moscow, Russia, in 1901. His family was from a noble background. His father was a high-ranking judge in the Russian Imperial Court.
André studied at a military academy in Kiev. But his family had to leave Moscow because of the Russian Revolution of 1917. From 1918 to 1921, André fought in the Russian Civil War. He was badly hurt in 1921 and almost died.
After he recovered, he joined his family in Yugoslavia. They had fled Russia.
Studying Winemaking
After leaving Russia, André studied farming technology in Czechoslovakia. He then continued his education in France. He studied at the Institut Pasteur and the Institut National Agronomique. There, he learned about oenology (the science of winemaking), fermentation, and microbiology.
Becoming a Famous Winemaker
Starting at Beaulieu Vineyard
In 1938, Georges de Latour, who owned Beaulieu Vineyards (BV), visited France. He was looking for a new winemaker with a scientific background. André Tchelistcheff was introduced to him.
Even though André had many job offers, he decided to join Beaulieu Vineyard. He arrived in Napa Valley, California, in September 1938. He became BV's vice president and head winemaker.
His Impact on California Wine
André quickly made a big difference at BV. He focused on creating a special style for high-quality California Cabernet Sauvignon. He also started the famous "Georges de Latour Private Reserve" wine label.
He brought new methods to the region. For example, he started aging wine in small French Oak barrels. By the mid-1940s, "Private Reserve" was known as the best California Cabernet Sauvignon. It was even served at important events at the White House.
André also helped develop many winemaking techniques. These included cold fermentation and protecting vineyards from frost. He also helped grow winemaking regions in Carneros, California, Oregon, and Washington.
Later Career and Legacy
André stayed at Beaulieu Vineyards until he retired in 1973. After retiring, he became a consulting expert for many other wineries. He helped places like Jordan Vineyard & Winery and Chateau Ste. Michelle.
He also advised his nephew, Alex Golitzin. Alex later started Quilceda Creek Vintners. This winery became very successful, earning top scores for its Cabernet Sauvignon.
André was a small man, but he had a quick mind and a great sense of humor. He was known for his amazing ability to taste and understand wines. Three generations of California winemakers loved him and called him the "Maestro."
In 2007, André Tchelistcheff was honored. He was inducted into the Culinary Institute of America's Vintner's Hall of Fame.
Awards
- Wine Spectator Distinguished Service Award, 1986.
- Wine Man of the Year, Wine Industry Technical Symposium, 1990.
- Reader's Choice Award, The Person Who Has Done the Most to Advance Wine Quality, Wine Spectator 2000.
- COPIA Lifetime Achievement Award, 2004.
- Vintners Hall of Fame (Created by the Culinary Institute of America), March 2007.
Images for kids
-
Monument to André Tchelistcheff in Napa, California
