Todd Graff, Senior Winemaker and General Manager, along with Winemaker Alicia Sylvester, are pleased to welcome Naomi Teal to the Frank Family team as Enologist. In this integral role, Naomi will work hands-on in both the lab and cellar, supporting the winemaking team in maintaining the highest standards of quality and consistency across every stage of production. From monitoring fermentations to assisting with blending and bottling, she plays a key role in crafting the estate-driven wines Frank Family is known for. We’re thrilled to have Naomi on board and look forward to the talent and perspective she brings to this year’s harvest and beyond!
Q: WHAT DOES YOUR NEW ROLE AS AN ENOLOGIST LOOK LIKE?
It looks like I’m running around all the time! It is a very varied role, from performing physical work in the cellar to running lab analysis to tasting with the winemakers, sometimes all in the same hour.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FRANK FAMILY WINE?
I love Rutherford fruit. I think Winston Hill is really special because it is part of the Rutherford AVA (American Viticultural Area), but on a hillside, which is rare for this AVA, and I think this feature makes the cab have an incredible nose!
Q: WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT BEING PART OF THE FRANK FAMILY TEAM?
I am most excited to have such a varied role and work with such a great team. By working in both the lab and cellar, I get to continue growing in both these areas and be hands-on with the winemaking process. Also, the team here at Frank Family is very skilled with years of experience to learn from. Todd and Alicia have incredible backgrounds and knowledge that I am very lucky to be here learning from them.
Q: AT FRANK FAMILY, GIVING BACK IS PART OF WHO WE ARE. IS THERE A CAUSE OR CHARITY THAT HOLDS SPECIAL MEANING FOR YOU?
I really value Heifer International. They build up farming communities in Africa, Asia, and the Americas to earn income and thrive. You can give gifts of livestock, clean water, send girls to school, etc. I think it’s very special that you can give a gift that creates long-term stability for a family.
Q: WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WANTING TO START A CAREER IN WINEMAKING?
Be open-minded! From what I’ve seen, winemakers must be ready for constant change. You must be flexible and know how to solve problems. So, when you’re starting out, be open to learning everything you can, no matter how random you think it is. Be open to meeting new people and to traveling! I think one of the best parts of winemaking is traveling to new countries to make wine, experiencing new cultures, and being part of an international community!
Q: WHAT’S A FUN FACT ABOUT YOURSELF?
Our Earth is so beautiful, and I really value traveling to natural wonders. I’ve been to 15 countries, and some of my favorite experiences have been hiking a glacier in Patagonia, floating in the Dead Sea, exploring Machu Picchu, and standing on top of a volcano in New Zealand.
