George Blanckensee

As Estate Director at Chateau Montelena, George oversees all DTC and export sales at the Chateau, including events, guest experiences, and property grounds. A Bay Area native, George grew up in San Francisco before heading to Southern California, where he attended and graduated from the University of California, Irvine, with a degree in Political Science. While in school, he started working in the hotel business, where he stayed for over 20 years – most of which time was concentrated in the food and beverage operations at resorts in both Southern and Northern California, Florida, and Colorado.

George realized his passion for wine and entered the wine industry as opening General Manager for Press Club, a unique wine tasting venue in downtown San Francisco. With a long-term relationship with Chateau Montelena as a buyer and supporter for over 20 years, he eventually joined the team at Montelena in 2009.