DIRECTOR OF WINEMAKING

Margo Van Staaveren’s passion for winemaking is nothing short of contagious. With 45 harvests under her belt, she’s a true icon in the industry—respected, admired, and endlessly inspired by the craft. "I like the cyclical nature of winemaking. From bud break through harvest to fermentation and blending the wine," she says. "Every year, you navigate the opportunities and challenges as they come to create something amazing—a wine that you are proud of and will enjoy with friends and family."

That unwavering enthusiasm has made Margo one of California’s most celebrated winemakers. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Fermentation Science from UC Davis, she joined Chateau St. Jean in 1980 as a Laboratory Technician. But her ambition and talent quickly propelled her forward—by 1989, she was Assistant Winemaker, then Associate Winemaker, and by 2003, she was named Winemaker and General Manager.

Throughout her 40+ vintages at Chateau St. Jean, Margo shaped some of Sonoma County’s most iconic wines, from vineyard-designated and reserve wines to the legendary Cinq Cépages Cabernet Sauvignon. Her expertise and vision earned her Wine Enthusiast’s “Winemaker of the Year” title in 2008, and under her leadership, Chateau St. Jean became the first Sonoma winery to win Wine Spectator’s prestigious “Wine of the Year” award for its 1996 Cinq Cépages.

In 2016, Margo took on an even bigger role, joining Treasury Wine Estates as Director of Luxury Winemaking. She now collaborates with winemakers across a powerhouse portfolio—including Beaulieu Vineyard, Beringer Vineyards, Etude, and Sterling Vineyards—ensuring each brand stays true to its legacy while pushing the boundaries of innovation.

What excites Margo most about working on Drop of Sunshine is the opportunity to contribute to a female-led project that celebrates the voices of women. "What excites me about Drop of Sunshine is that it’s not just about making wine—it’s about creating something that amplifies the voices of women and celebrates authentic, real stories," she says. "This brand was created by women, for women, and that resonates with me deeply. We’re not relying on overused female stereotypes, but rather focusing on meaningful connections and stories that truly reflect the essence of womanhood."

For Margo, Drop of Sunshine is more than a brand—it’s a movement. “I’m incredibly proud to be part of something that goes beyond winemaking. This is about fostering connections, empowering women, and using storytelling to bring people together. That’s what makes this project truly special.”

With her unparalleled expertise and passion, Margo is helping craft wines that do more than delight the palate—they celebrate connection, amplify voices, and create ripples of inspiration far beyond the glass.