New California Wine maker release: Deauratus

Deauratus is now available at Berry Bros. & Rudd in Japan.

This is a unique project by two talented winemakers who met at Ridge Vineyards, one of California's most prestigious wineries.

Eric Baugher studied biochemistry and molecular biology before joining Ridge Winery in 27 vintages. His analytical skills helped Ridge to improve its ability to produce consistently good wines, helping the brand achieve its golden age in the 2000s. 

Shun Ishikubo began his career as a cellar hand (brewing assistant) at Nishi Shuzo, a shochu brewery in Kagoshima Prefecture known for its sweet potato shochu Kitcho Hozan . After leaving Nishi Shuzo, he studied abroad at the University of California, Davis. In 2008, he began working at Ridge Vineyards with Eric, where he has been involved in 13 vintages.

Together, they have crafted some of the finest wines in Ridge's history, earning perfect 100-point scores multiple times.
In 2023, the two realised their dream of launching their own wine brand, Deauratus.
The four items arriving this time are their first vintage releases.

Deaurātus – ( d ǝ ‐'rä–tәs ) is in Latin for “golden.”

With years of experience, travelling throughout California and studying the soil, microclimates, and viticulture, we have been able to source the best grapes from the best growers. That is why Deauratus specialises in single-vineyard winemaking.

The two winemakers control every detail of the process, from vineyard selection, harvest time, fermentation, barrel selection and aging, to bottling time . The fact that they control every step and that it is done by two winemakers is what sets them apart from other wineries.

The grapes are hand-picked between 10pm and 5am before sunrise to prevent sun damage and maintain optimal freshness, and then Ishikubo personally transports them to the winery by truck.

Combining select terroir, excellent fruit and a highly disciplined winemaking approach, the resulting wines are stunning and very "golden."