Schug Winery

Schug is a Carneros estate founded by legendary German expat Walter Schug, the pioneering winemaker behind Joseph Phelps and their classic Insignia, with a long-standing focus on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in one of California’s most wind-swept, marine-influenced growing zones. The estate-driven approach is central: cool-climate farming, disciplined cellar work, and a European-leaning style that prioritizes balance and detail over sheer weight.

Today, the winery is led by the second generation, including Axel Schug, continuing Walter’s legacy with a clear focus on Carneros and Sonoma Coast sourcing. Winemaking is guided by German-born Johannes Scheid, reinforcing the house’s Old World sensibility while keeping the wines clean, precise, and program-friendly. Schug is a natural fit for lists that want classic California Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with pedigree, consistency, and a strong sense of place.