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THE SECRET

Meet The Team

DONALD PATZ – Owner/Winemaker

Born in Fargo, North Dakota but lived in both Minnesota and Oregon before coming to California in 1983. He earned a degree in Biology from the University of Oregon. Mr. Patz’s career in wine spans four decades in the wine business at virtually every level from retail through sales and production. He worked for Flora Springs Winery, Girard Winery before dedicating full time to his previous winery business Patz & Hall Winery.

Mr. Patz is a notable personality and highly regarded professional within the California wine business. His expertise in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines is unquestioned and although less well-known Mr. Patz also has experience with Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Secret Door Winery is his chance to exercise his skills in a familiar but new arena.

JUNG MIN “Michelle” LEE – Owner

Born in Seoul, South Korea, to a very prominent family Mrs. Lee lived her early life never expecting to live anywhere else. She received a degree in Music from Kyung Hee University where she specialized in playing the Oboe. After a family tragedy, she moved with her young son to the US in 1993. Mrs. Lee is the true inspiration for Secret Door Winery. She developed a real love and appreciation of wine even before meeting Donald Patz.

While living in Virginia she found access to the great wines of Bordeaux much easier than hunting down the latest California sensation. She developed a great appreciation and an accurate wine palate in her own exploration of wine. In 2010, she met Donald and they began their personal journey together. He promised her when she came to live in Napa that someday he would create a Cabernet Sauvignon for her.

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