Michael Polenske - Proprietor of Blackbird Vineyards

Michael Polenske is intently devoted to "the business of leisure." In acquiring Blackbird Vineyards and turning it into an ultra premium label, Polenske brings to the venture his proven flair for combining individual talents into a highly effective team...

Paul Leary joined Blackbird Vineyards as President in 2006. In the fall of 2008, Mr. Leary was instrumental in the launch of Ma(i)sonry Napa Valley, an art, wine and design collective in Yountville, CA. Leary’s continuous charge is to build Blackbird’s brand equity and financial returns by ensuring wine quality and spearheading niche marketing strategies that create consumer demand in the direct and wholesale distribution channels.

Aaron Pott - Winemaker

Aaron Pott’s curiosity in wine began at the young age of 9 when he ordered a glass of milk in a venerable Parisian bistro. When the waiter responded—in halting perfect English—that “milk is for babies” and promptly produced a glass of watered down red, Pott realized that wine was a beverage of choice for adults and immersed himself in the world of wine trivia.

Consulting Winemaker Sarah Gott brings extensive experience in producing noteworthy wines including Insignia and Backus for Joseph Phelps, Quintessa, and Joel Gott Wines, which she makes with her husband...