As an undergraduate at the University of California, Davis, Nicole Marchesi began studying towards a major in biology. But after being assigned to write an article about the Department of Viticulture and Enology for the school newspaper, The Aggie, her interest was sparked in pursuing a career in wine. Nicole quickly changed majors and went on to complete her bachelor’s degree in Viticulture & Enology at UC Davis in 2003.

After graduation, she honed her winemaking skills in Sonoma and New Zealand before joining Far Niente in 2005 as its enologist. Soon thereafter, she was promoted to assistant winemaker and in 2009 became only the fourth winemaker in the over 30-year history of the winery. During her tenure, Nicole has gained a deep understanding of Far Niente’s estate vineyards, working with the sites and individual blocks to bring forth the discrete character of each. Ultimately, she strives to create wines of elegance and depth that capture both place and vintage, while staying true to the Far Niente house style. The winery is noted for its Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Nicole lives in Sonoma Valley with her husband, winemaker David Marchesi, and their two sons. Most of her spare time is spent enjoying the great outdoors or reading books with her family.