Meet Diana Schultz of Augustina Cellars
In the evolving landscape of the wine industry, Diana Marie Augustina Schultz stands out as a dynamic force, blending her rich background in the arts with a profound passion for viticulture. As the owner and winemaker of Augustina Cellars, Diana's journey is a testament to creativity, resilience, and a commitment to authentic winemaking.
A Journey from the Arts to Viticulture
Diana's foray into the world of wine is deeply intertwined with her artistic pursuits. With a background in theater and dance, she has always been captivated by storytelling and creative expression. These artistic endeavors not only fueled her love for travel but also introduced her to diverse cultures and flavors, igniting her interest in wine. Reflecting on her journey, Diana shared in an interview how her experiences in the arts seamlessly transitioned into a passion for wine education and winemaking.
Establishing Augustina Cellars
In 2019, Diana founded Augustina Cellars in the Pacific Northwest, realizing her vision of a female-led winery. With decades of experience in hospitality, wine education, winemaking, and direct-to-consumer sales, she laid the foundation for a brand that reflects her core values. Diana is dedicated to producing wines that honor the authenticity of each varietal, are crafted to pair beautifully with food, and are sourced from vineyards committed to sustainable practices and stewardship of the land.
A Collaborative Effort: The Role of Lee McCollins
The inception of Augustina Cellars is also a story of enduring friendship and collaboration. Diana's longtime friend, Lee McCollins, played a pivotal role in bringing the winery to life. Their partnership, rooted in a friendship that began at a summer church camp in the 1990s, combines Diana's winemaking expertise with Lee's entrepreneurial spirit and design acumen. Together, they have cultivated a brand that not only produces exceptional wines but also tells a compelling story of friendship and shared dreams.
Philosophy and Craft
Diana's winemaking philosophy centers on minimal intervention, allowing the true character of the fruit to shine as nature intended. She emphasizes the importance of supporting vineyards that are responsible stewards of the land and prioritize the well-being of their workers. This approach ensures that each bottle from Augustina Cellars is a genuine reflection of its terroir and the care invested in its creation.
Community Engagement and Recognition
Beyond the cellar, Diana is actively involved in the wine community. She serves as a wine educator at The Wine & Spirit Archive in Portland, sharing her knowledge and passion with aspiring wine enthusiasts. Her dedication to fostering a more inclusive and diverse wine industry is evident through her participation in events like TASTE for Equity, which highlights winemakers from underrepresented groups.
Looking Ahead
As Augustina Cellars continues to grow, Diana remains committed to her core values of authenticity, sustainability, and community. With plans to explore new varietals and expand her reach, she is poised to make a lasting impact on the wine industry, inspiring others with her story and dedication to the craft.
Diana Marie Augustina Schultz's journey is a powerful reminder that the fusion of passion, artistry, and dedication can lead to the creation of something truly exceptional in the world of wine.