Chris Rougeot is the winemaker at Le Vigne Winery in Paso Robles, California. A native of California’s Central Coast, Chris has dedicated his career to the art and science of winemaking. With a background in microbiology from California Polytechnic State University, Chris developed a deep fascination with fermentation, which led him to pursue a path in the wine industry.
Chris is proud to have been a part of the blossoming Paso Robles wine region for the past 25 years, contributing to its innovation and camaraderie while collaborating with passionate individuals who have helped shape this vibrant community. While he has worked with a wide range of grape varieties and appellations, his passion remains rooted in the wines of Paso Robles. He has a profound understanding of its unique terroir, allowing him to craft varietal wines and inspired blends that capture the essence of the land. Chris is the father of two beautiful daughters.
Media Inquiries: c.rougeot@levignewinery.com | www.levignewinery.com
What’s the ONE THING most unique, authentic, & memorable about your brand?
At Le Vigne, our identity is built on a true marriage, both literal and metaphorical, of heritage and passion. On one side, the family’s deep farming roots in Paso Robles, where the land has been cultivated since the 1960s. Grapes were first planted in 1982, just a year before Paso Robles was officially recognized as an AVA, and the winery was built shortly before the Estrella District sub-appellation was established. On the other side, Walter Filippini’s Italian culinary heritage brings a distinctly Old World perspective to our wines. Walter’s culinary background also informs our approach in the cellar: we strive to create wines with balance, structure, and refreshing acidity—wines that shine on the table and elevate the dining experience.
Describe how and what you’d do with your winemaking career or winery business if you were not constrained.
At Le Vigne, our passion for winemaking is deeply rooted in Italian tradition. My dream would be collaborating with a winery in Lombardy—showcasing our connection to Italy through a limited-production wine made from native varietals like Sangiovese or the rare Rossolino Nero. This would be a true celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the shared language of wine across continents.
What is the One Wine most emblematic of your brand and/or winemaking style? Tell us its story.
Named after the owners’ two children, Niki and Kiara, and crafted in the heart of Paso Robles, where the climate and soils are ideally suited for Bordeaux varietals, the Nikiara blend is a bold yet balanced expression of the region’s unique terroir. Anchored by Cabernet Sauvignon and artfully complemented by Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc, this blend offers depth, complexity, and a true sense of place.
Bonus Question: What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
Growing up in a wine region, I developed a deep respect for the vine and the culture that surrounds it, however, I never imagined I would become a winemaker myself. I started from the ground up, learning every step of the process hands-on. Along the way, I was fortunate to be guided by incredible mentors who not only taught me the craft, but also instilled in me a passion for constant learning and honoring tradition.