La Crema names McAllister as new head winemaker

California’s La Crema winery has promoted Craig McAllister to the position of head winemaker.

A New Zealand native, McAllister first joined La Crema, which produces Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris from the Russian River, Sonoma Coast, Los Carneros, Anderson Valley and Monterey appellations, as its harvest enologist in 2007.

Prior to his promotion to head winemaker, McAllister served as associate winemaker. As part of this role, McAllister helped to further develop La Crema’s collection of single vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines.

“Craig’s long tenure with La Crema and passion for cool-climate winemaking make him a natural fit,” said Mitch Davis, senior vice president of production for Jackson Family Wines, which owns the La Crema brand.

“In particular, his expertise on the Central Coast, in the Monterey appellation, a region in which we see tremendous potential for La Crema, coupled with his skill, experience and passion, will continue to enhance the strength of the La Crema winemaking team.”

Going forward, McAllister will be tasked with producing wines from coastal regions as far north as the Willamette Valley in Oregon to as far south as Arroyo Seco in California, and raising the profile of the winery’s Monterey series.