The Beginning

The discussion surfaced on a spring evening over dinner with the Buoncristiani family and friends. When were the Buoncristiani brothers going to finally make a white wine?!! Kristin, lead by her desire for the same, inspired Jay Buoncristiani to take on this project with her, and Gemella was born.

Inspiration for Our Name

Derived from the Italian phrase, “L’Anima Gemella” which means soul mate, the name Gemella also signifies the small gem-like vineyard blocks where we sourced the fruit for these new offerings. Like precious gems (a clue to the pronunciation of Gemella), the fruit that made these rare handcrafted wines came from some very extraordinary vineyards.

Jay Buoncristiani - Former winemaker for The Hess Collection and now a consultant winemaker in the Napa Valley, Jay has truly made his mark in the wine industry as the winemaker for Buoncristiani Family Winery. The wines he crafts with his brothers have been very well received by the press, garnering scores from 91 to 93 points from Wine Spectator. Although Jay has made many whites previously, Gemella becomes the first white wine project under his own label, co-owned with Kristin.

Kristin Buoncristiani – Captivated with the Viognier variety, Kristin is the source of inspiration for the Gemella project. As the former Trade Manager for the Hess Collection and now a marketing consultant, she is involved in the wine industry on many different levels. Her insight is invaluable and her experience will help ensure a solid relationship between Gemella Wines and you.