Brenae Royal
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
About Brenae Royal
Cultivating Legacy: Meet Brenae Royal
I got my start in wine while in my last year at CSU Chico, when I first enjoyed Apothic Red! This led to a 7-month internship at Gallo as an Operations Viticulture Intern. A month and a half later, I returned full-time as a Viticulturist. After 11 months in that role, I became the Vineyard Manager for Monte Rosso Vineyard. During my time as an intern and viticulturist, I oversaw 1,800 acres across Sonoma County. As Vineyard Manager for Monte Rosso, I led the farming of all 250 acres, with a growing season team ranging from 25 to 40 people, and a harvest team that grew to between 60 and 100 people.
From 2015 to 2024, I led grape sales, transitioned vineyards from sustainability certification to organic certification, worked on lean projects, and managed the overall business outlook for the vineyard. In April 2024, I left Gallo and became the Director of Vineyard Operations for St. Supery Vineyards & Winery in Napa. There, I oversaw 1,700 acres of vineyards, including 577 acres primarily planted with Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, while leading a team of over 50 people daily. During my time in that role, I realized it wasn’t going to be a longtime fit for me, and I decided leave and to fully transition into vineyard consulting, while also launching my own wine brand, Violets Paradise.
While I’ve always enjoyed the work and leadership roles in the vineyard, my favorite role has been as a mom. In 2023, I welcomed my sweet little boy, who made that year incredibly memorable. He is the brightest light in my life and truly makes me feel like Superwoman. He is, without a doubt, the driving force behind my ambition.
Breaking Barriers, Growing Success
- Youngest and First Black Woman to Manage Monte Rosso Vineyard – Became the vineyard manager at 24, overseeing 250 acres of historic vines in Sonoma County.
- Over a Decade of Leadership at E. & J. Gallo Winery – Played a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing the legacy of Monte Rosso Vineyard.
- Named to Wine Enthusiast’s “40 Under 40” List (2020) – Recognized as a rising star in the wine industry for her contributions to viticulture.
- Advocate for Diversity and Inclusion in Agriculture & Winemaking – Actively mentors and promotes opportunities for Black professionals in the wine industry.
- Sustainability Leader – Spearheading efforts to transition Monte Rosso Vineyard to organic certification, reinforcing a commitment to sustainable viticulture.
- High-Profile Industry Speaker & Educator – Frequently invited to speak at major wine and agricultural conferences, sharing insights on vineyard management and diversity in wine.
- Key Role in Producing Highly Rated Wines – Her work at Monte Rosso has contributed to critically acclaimed, high-scoring wines produced from the vineyard.
- Founded the Violet’s Paradise Scholarship – Created to support and empower aspiring professionals in agriculture and viticulture.
- Recognized by Major Wine Publications – Featured in The San Francisco Chronicle, The Press Democrat, Wine Spectator, and Star Wine List for her groundbreaking work.
- Expanding Influence Beyond California – Her expertise and impact are shaping industry practices and inspiring future generations across the country.
Brenae Royal’s dedication to excellence, sustainability, and mentorship continues to leave a lasting mark on the wine industry