4th Generation Winegrower Co-founder of Murrieta’s Well and Vice-Chairman
Following in the footsteps of his grandfather Ernest Wente, Philip pursued his love of viticulture at the University of California at Davis. He graduated in 1975 with a degree in agricultural science and management, specializing in viticulture and enology.
For more than 25 years, Phil Wente has headed the operation, expansion, and redevelopment of the Wente Family Estate vineyards and its land development programs. Under his supervision of agricultural operations, the winery’s vineyard holdings increased significantly. He replanted the family’s estate vineyards, utilizing the soil resources and new trellis system technologies to further enhance each vineyard block’s natural distinctiveness.
Phil is strongly committed to preserving and protecting the family’s vineyards through the “Farming for the Future™” program dedicated to sustainable agriculture. This program is a system of practices that enhance the vitality of the soil, creating a harmony of sustainable ecology, minimal water use, and reducing non-organic waste, all part of the family’s ongoing focus on sustainability.
Phil is a leading advocate for the Livermore Valley and Arroyo Seco as winegrowing regions and is actively involved in land use and planning issues in the Livermore Valley. In 1986, he spearheaded the South Livermore Valley Planning Process that created a General Plan Amendment adopted in 1993. One of the many tools developed during this planning progress was the formation of the Tri-Valley Conservancy. This innovative agricultural land trust harmonizes real estate development and agricultural land preservation in Alameda County, California. These initiatives were so successful that they are used as a model in many other areas of the country.
In 1990, Phil teamed up with winemaker Sergio Traverso to revive the historic winery Murrieta’s Well, focusing on red and white blended wines produced from the sustainably farmed estate vineyards.
In recognition of his commitment to viticulture, Philip was elected to the Board of the Wine Institute in 1977, served as chairman in 1995, and continues as an ex-officio officer to the present time.
Phil lives with his wife, Julie, in the Livermore Valley home built by his grandfather early in the last century. Their three daughters, Jordan, Aly, and Niki, are active in the family business today.
