Band of Vintners Napa Valley
Band of Vintners is the outcome of a group of wine industry friends who regularly get together to taste wine and talk shop.
The collective “insider” knowledge of where the best fruit can be sourced, where the deals can be found, and where favors can be called in when needed, was contagious, and surprised even us. The outcome is a wine we believe makes a strong case for one of the best quality-price ratios in the Napa Valley, and something we’re proud to share with our friends, family, and neighbors.
Britt Nichols Winemaker
Britt Nichols has always had her sights set on winemaking. After graduating from CSU Fresno in 2007, she made her way to Napa to do an internship at Chappellet Winery. From there, she did stints at Jordan Winery and Keller Estate before settling down at Peter Michael Winery.
After several years, Britt decided to expand her winemaking knowledge, working at St. Clement, Ledson Winery, and with acclaimed consulting winemaker Philippe Melka. She rejoined forces with Phillip Titus in 2014 to work on Coho for several years. As winemaker for Altruria, Alta Nova, and Jack Tar wines, Britt takes a minimalist approach to winemaking.
"It’s so exciting for me to make wines from myriad California terroirs," Britt says, "from the dense and lush Recoltant Napa Cabernet, to the structured and powerful Altruria Sonoma Cabernet, to the luscious Jack Tar Cab from the rolling hills of Paso. These vineyards and fruit couldn’t be more distinct. In general I have a firm belief in the purity of the wines, and enhancing what is already there, which allows the fruit to shine."
Bryan Weil Winemaker
Bryan’s progressive path to winemaking was one that allowed him to combine a passion for food and wine with his acute precision in science and craftsmanship. Bryan admires the diversity of the Willamette Valley and his precision and keen judgement show in the end result.
Born and raised in Salem, Oregon, Bryan began his career in culinary school, where his appreciation and love for Oregon Pinot Noir flourished. Bryan earned a degree in Enology and Viticulture with a minor in Chemistry from Oregon State University. His experiences in the vineyard and cellar span three continents, with work at Domaine Serene, Tyee Wine Cellars, Rain Dance Vineyards, Hogue Cellars, and Kim Crawford. As Winemaker at Alexana Winery, Bryan assisted in the completion of Alexana’s sister winery, Corazon Del Sol, in Argentina. In addition to his work at Ambar, Bryan is Managing Partner and Winemaker at Vinovate Custom Wine Services.
