Wine Interview: Chris Louton Winemaker at St. Francis Winery | Protecting the Soul of a Wine?!?

From cleaning kennels to crafting Sonoma Cabernet, Chris Louton’s path to winemaking wasn’t planned. A UC Davis class changed everything. Now at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, he’s shaping wines that stay balanced, affordable, and true to place.

Chris shares how he went from veterinary ambitions to overseeing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Bordeaux varietals in Sonoma County. We talk vintage differences, protecting quality at scale, and why he refuses to “make wine for trends.”

We taste the 2023 St. Francis Merlot and 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon (both around $15–$16, 14.8% and 14.5% ABV). Chris breaks down vineyard strategy, blending across Sonoma County, and how they maintain control from vine to bottle.

If you care about value wine done right, this one’s for you.

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Learn More About the St. Francis

https://www.stfranciswinery.com/

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Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction

00:55 – From Veterinary Medicine to Winemaking

05:14 – Luxury Cabernet & Early Career

07:42 – Joining St. Francis & Carrying the Legacy

10:08 – Making Wine for a Wide Audience

15:07 – What St. Francis Wines Aim to Deliver

18:15 – Protecting Quality at Scale

22:06 – 2023 Merlot Breakdown

34:36 – 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Breakdown

42:45 – Review & Ratings

47:25 – Pinot or Chardonnay Game

50:13 – Final Thoughts + Where to Find St. Francis