Welcome to Destino Wines

Meaning fate, journey and destination, the name Destino reflects a simple, guiding philosophy—that the winemaking journey is the destination. In this spirit, our approach to artisan winemaking expresses itself in a passion for the many small details. From the way the sunlight dapples the ripening grapes in the vineyards to the nuanced diversity of oak barrels from different forests in France, our wines embody a rich sense of exploration.

Established in 1999, Destino Wines was founded by Chris Calkins. A gifted entrepreneur committed to quality and flavor, Chris helped co-found San Francisco’s renowned Spinelli Coffee company in the mid 1980s. Fascinated by the relationship between growing sites, flavors and aromas, during his coffee years Chris also explored his love of wine and the Napa Valley by handcrafting his own wines each harvest. After selling his specialty coffee company in 1998, Chris took the next step in his journey, dedicating himself fulltime to the world of wine and winemaking.

As a vintner and a winemaker, Chris approaches Destino Wines with the same uncompromising eye for quality that has defined the success of all of his ventures. Focused on handcrafting world-class, limited-production wines using Napa Valley and Sonoma County grapes, Chris works with a handful of the finest family-owned vineyards from both regions. The result is Destino’s acclaimed small portfolio of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc.

We invite you to share our journey with us, as we turn exceptional grapes into wines of singular depth and character.

Winery ~

We are a small operation, and could not achieve the success for which we strive were it not for the guidance and energy our many friends.