Award-Winning Vineyard Poised For Growth Under New Ownership
Famed Scientist Dr. Jonathan Rothberg Purchases Chamard Vineyards
CLINTON, CT, March 22, 2006 – Dr. Jonathan Rothberg recently purchased Chamard Vineyards in Clinton, Connecticut. Chamard, a 40 acre vineyard, was founded in 1983, by Mr. William R. Chaney, former CEO and Chairman of Tiffany and CO. The first commercial vintage was produced in 1988.
Combining his love of nature, his interest in genetics and biotechnology, Dr. Rothberg plans to push the frontiers of winemaking. Named Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 1998, Dr. Rothberg is a leading scientist known for his work in Genomics and Systems Biology. He is also the founder of four companies; CuraGen Corporation (NASDAQ: CRGN), 454 Life Sciences, Raindance Technologies, and Clarifi, as well as a charity for childhood diseases the Rothberg Institute (TRI.)
Under the new ownership and guidance of Dr. Rothberg, Chamard Vineyards is moving into a new phase of its evolution. Chamard’s mission is to be a destination for Connecticut’s best wines. Being the best means providing world-class wines with outstanding quality, value and exceptional service. Dr. Rothberg intends to expand the palette of wines with new white varieties like Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and Riesling being added to the current mix of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
“I want Chamard to be a destination the same way you think of Mystic,” said Dr. Rothberg.
“As a result of the amazing research and development that has occurred in the wine industry, even within the past ten years, we can now offer better wines through improved vineyard management,” said Director of Operations and wine maker Larry McCulloch. Mr. McCulloch is the original wine maker at Chamard Vineyards.
Chamard is dedicated to producing fine wines from classic European wine grapes. A blend of time-honored wine making techniques and state-of-the-art winery equipment are used to create world-class wines. “Our priority from the beginning was to develop a reputation for producing top quality wine and that philosophy won’t change,” continued Mr. McCulloch. “For the last nine years Connecticut Magazine’s reader survey has named Chamard’s Chardonnay Connecticut’s Best Wine, I am excited to expand that to a palette of Connecticut’s best wines.”
In addition to the new varieties of wines that will be introduced, Chamard Vineyards will be hosting events throughout the summer beginning in June with a special VIP member event. To become a Chamard Vintage Patron member, simply buy one case of wine at one time while visiting the Vineyard. To learn more the VIP benefits of membership and upcoming events at Chamard log on to the website www.chamard.com.
“We are looking forward to hosting you when you are in the area. And if you are a wine seller or restaurant we look forward to visiting you in the near future,” said Dr. Rothberg.
In an effort to expand Chamard's influence on regional winemaking and transform the vineyard into a premier destination, two new executives have joined the Chamard team. Bridget Riordan hired as the Director of Sales and Brand Management earned a B.S. in Hotel and Food Administration and Business from Boston University. Sarah True, hired as the Director of Marketing and Special Events, earned a B.A. from Loyola College in Communications and Business and has a strong event planning background. The new Directors will be spearheading all of the exciting changes that are planned for the growth of Chamard.
“I am extremely proud of my team- they are the most gracious group you will ever meet, commented Dr. Rothberg.”
About Chamard Vineyards
Founded by Tiffany and CO. CEO and Chairman William R. Chaney, and guided by winemaker Larry McCulloch the first vintage was produced in 1988. The vineyards spread across 40 acres of gently sloping fields along the southern Connecticut coast, just two miles from Long Island Sound. The 20 acres of established vines include the varieties Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Chamard benefits from a unique micro-climate influenced greatly by Long Island Sound. Located two miles from the sound and six miles from the mouth of the Connecticut River, this maritime climate produces mild winter temperatures and a long, warm growing season. The rich, stony soil, gently sloping land and moderate climate provide an ideal environment for the growing of European wine grapes. Between 6,000 and 7,000 cases are produced annually.
Return To News Page
