Cecil Park, the founder and winemaker of INNOVATUS Wine, is a trailblazer in Napa Valley’s wine industry. As the region’s first Korean winemaker, Cecil has redefined the norms of a traditionally male-dominated field. Her journey from Seoul, South Korea, to the vineyards of Napa is one of resilience, innovation, and passion. By combining technical expertise with creative vision, Cecil crafts wines that stand out in the highly competitive Napa wine scene. In this interview, Cecil shares her personal journey, the philosophy behind INNOVATUS Wine, and how she is reshaping the industry with a fresh perspective.

Edited excerpts from the interview.

Could you share a bit about your background and how your journey into winemaking began?

I was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, where societal expectations for women often leaned toward traditional roles. My mother, who faced great adversity after losing her parents in the war, taught me the importance of perseverance and the belief that pursuing expertise would lead to freedom and happiness. I earned a degree in Food and Biotech Engineering and worked as a product manager at a food company. But I realized I needed an MBA to advance, so I moved to the U.S. at the age of 27. It was during this time that I had my first taste of wine, and I was instantly captivated. The blend of science and artistry in winemaking sparked my curiosity. This led me to Napa Valley, where I immersed myself in wine culture and the science behind it. In 2007, I interned at Napa Wine Company, diving deep into fermentation, soil, and vineyard management. That experience confirmed my calling—I knew winemaking was where I belonged.

What are your favorite books (or other resources) that have influenced your winemaking journey?

Books like Tending the Wild by M. Kat Anderson and Agriculture Course: The Birth of the Biodynamic Method by Rudolf Steiner profoundly influenced my approach to winemaking. They expanded my understanding of sustainable farming and the natural cycles that shape viticulture. However, my greatest education came from working alongside passionate individuals and world-class winemakers like Delia Viader, Heidi Barrett, Aaron Pott, and Russell Bevan. Their informal mentorship helped me see that wine is not just a product—it’s an expression of philosophy and artistry.

Could you tell us about a memorable moment or turning point in your winemaking career?

One of the most defining moments in my career was with my debut 2014 INNOVATUS Cuvée. It was an unconventional blend of Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc—a deliberate departure from the Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot-dominated norm in Napa. When Cathy Huyghe featured the wine in Forbes, it was an incredible validation of the risks I had taken. The name “Innovatus,” meaning “innovation” in Latin, captures the spirit of constant reinvention. For me, this wine was more than a blend—it was a statement about breaking tradition and bringing fresh perspectives to the Napa Valley wine scene.

Cecil Park, Founder and Winemaker at INNOVATUS Wine

Is there a wine region or style that particularly inspires you?

While Napa Valley is my home and holds a special place in my heart, I draw immense inspiration from Old World regions like Burgundy and Champagne. Their focus on terroir-driven wines, combined with a respect for tradition, deeply resonates with me. I strive to emulate their balance of elegance and purity in my own wines, creating something that honors the grape while offering a unique perspective shaped by my diverse background.

What are the essential skills for a successful winemaker, in your opinion?

Technical expertise is important, but the ability to observe and listen to the land is absolutely essential. Patience and intuition play a huge role in knowing when to intervene and when to let nature take its course. Attention to detail is critical because every decision—from vineyard management to fermentation—affects the final product. Above all, resilience is key. Winemaking is filled with challenges, from unpredictable weather to equipment failures, and success depends on your ability to adapt and stay focused on your long-term goals.

How do you balance honoring tradition with innovation in winemaking?

I believe that creativity and innovation thrive when we embrace different perspectives. Growing up in Korea, I wasn’t bound by preconceived notions of winemaking traditions, which allowed me to think outside the box. My background exposed me to a variety of fermented foods and methods, shaping my approach to winemaking in unique ways. Innovation isn’t just about new techniques—it’s about finding fresh ways to express who we are and what we believe through the wines we create.

What are you currently learning or exploring in wine, and why?

Right now, I’m deeply focused on sustainability, especially in the vineyard. Growing up in Korea gave me a profound respect for nature and its cycles, which informs how I approach the land. I’m exploring Korean natural farming techniques to create a more harmonious relationship between the land and the vines. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for me—it’s a long-term commitment to ensuring the future of winemaking without compromising the environment.

Cecil Park

How do sustainability and environmental challenges impact your approach to winemaking?

Sustainability is at the core of both my vineyard practices and winemaking process. In the vineyard, I’m developing techniques that foster a balanced ecosystem while producing high-quality fruit. In the cellar, I focus on reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and avoiding unnecessary additives. Every decision I make is driven by the desire to protect the environment while crafting wines that reflect a sense of place.

What’s one lesson or insight you wish you knew when you first started?

When I began my journey in 2007, Napa felt like a well-established forest, and I was a small weed trying to find my place. Looking back, I realize that the challenges I faced mirrored the resilience of grapevines growing in difficult conditions. Every hardship, frustration, and moment of self-doubt ultimately shaped who I am today. These experiences were essential nourishment for my growth. The journey taught me to embrace my individuality, trust the process, and find strength in resilience. Just like a great wine, the fruits of this journey carry a lasting fragrance—one I hope inspires others to follow their own path.

Header image sourced from Cecil Park.

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