Charlie Wagner

Charlie Wagner is owner and winemaker for Mer Soleil winery in the Santa Lucia Highlands (within Monterey County). Making two Chardonnays under the Mer Soleil label, he is passionate about how these wines reflect the drama and rugged beauty of California’s central coast.

Charlie also leads Conundrum, which was inspired in the late ‘80s by his grandfather’s experiments at the dinner table. Mixing different varietals was unheard of back then, and Conundrum helped to ignite the now-popular blend category. In addition, Charlie leads Red Schooner – which now includes two “Red Wines of the World,” a Malbec made from grapes grown in Argentina and a red blend made from grapes grown in Australia.

With a tireless interest in making wines from different parts of California, Charlie launched his newest label, Sea Sun, a few years ago. Reflecting the state’s unique landscape, Sea Sun offers both a Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from premier coastal regions, each holding broad appeal for a wide range of palates.

Named after his grandfather, Charlie Wagner Sr. – co-founder of Caymus Vineyards – Charlie has a long family history in Napa Valley dating back to 1857.