He grew up the son of a Baptist preacher in central Michigan and did not come across wine until his early 20’s when he was waiting tables in Louisville, KY. After a few years of touring and playing music full-time under the name Bro. Stephen, Scott helped open a restaurant in Louisville called RYE and that’s where he really dug into wine in a truly meaningful way.
He read every book he could find and bought every bottle he could afford (and a lot that he couldn’t) and built up enough knowledge to pass his Certified Sommelier (Level 2) Exam. This accomplishment was the culmination of his newfound realization that his passion was shifting from restaurants to wine.
So, he packed up his belongings, sold his car and moved to the Napa Valley in August of 2013 with his bike, a backpack full of clothes, and $30 in his bank account. After his first Harvest, Scott started working at a brand-new property in Napa called Eleven Eleven. He started out as their first employee, and eventually worked his way up to being the Cellar Master.
During this time, Scott also started a brand called Mountain Tides in 2016 where he focused on lighter, fresher Petite Sirah from all over Northern California. He became known for making unadulterated wines that showcased a sense of place and real freshness that was uncommon for the variety in this climate. His Petite Sirah wines opened up people’s minds as to what is possible in varieties we think we have completely figured out. The project was very well received and had glowing write-ups from Jancis Robinson, The New York Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, and the Wine Enthusiast.
After several years, Scott, again wanted to expand his oenological and viticultural horizons. He shifted his focus away from this project and serendipitously joined us at Dancing Crow Vineyards. We could tell Scott’s approach to wine was simpatico with our own, and we were extremely impressed with his knowledge, curiosity, and acumen. Scott quickly embraced our style and brings a new vivaciousness and a myriad of ideas and approaches to Dancing Crow that are truly exciting.
We are so happy to have Scott as part of the Dancing Crow family as our Winemaker. He fits perfectly, as we all feel the same passion for wine and excitement in showcasing the uniqueness of Lake County and surrounding areas, with their potential for new and compelling styles of bright, refreshing wines that really speak to a spirit of place.
Welcome Scott!