From Light Beer to Fine Wine: The Story of Goosecross Cellars

As a descendant of the Colorado beverage trailblazer Adolph Coors, Christi Coors Ficeli inherited a legacy steeped in the beer industry. It was expected that Christi would follow in her family's footsteps. And although she spent some time working in that world, the pioneering spirit that inspired her relatives to forge a path in the beer industry also led Christi to chart her own course in the wine industry.

Christi's first foray into the wine world began at Gallo, where she gained expertise in all facets of wine: production, distribution, promotion, and sales. ​It was at Gallo where Christi met her future husband, Dave Ficeli, a local wine industry executive. Their shared passion for wine and the allure of Napa Valley led them to envision a future as owners of a family-led Napa winery. This dream was realized in 2013 when Christi, with the support of a Coors family partnership, acquired Goosecross Cellars, a property named after a pair of wayward geese that lived near the property  — and a property in dire need of refurbishment​

The State Lane Vineyard

The vineyard at Goosecross is an integral part of its story. Located on the floor of Napa Valley, the State Lane Vineyard features a unique mix of soils, resulting from centuries-old alluvial fans. This composition of gravel, clay loam, and ancient coastal deposits provides ideal conditions for the growing grapes. The vineyard also benefits from the cooler maritime influence from the San Francisco Bay and an extended growing season, creating wines of exceptional balance and variety..

A diverse selection

Goosecross Cellars boasts a wide array of wine collections, each exemplifying the winery's dedication to quality and the expression of Napa Valley's terroir. 

1. State Lane Selection: This exclusive selection from the estate includes varietals like Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, each reflecting the intensity and opulence of the vineyard's fruit.

2. Napa Valley Selection: This collection includes wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Syrah, and crafted in partnership with local family groweres.

3. Summit Selection: Celebrating vineyards that push the boundaries, this selection features powerful wines like the Game Farm Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Syrah, and are known for their bold and daring flavors.

4. Abstract Selection: A playful group which showcases winemaker Bill Nancarrow's creativity, with different blends each year.

5. C Elizabeth: A private label created by Christi and Dave as a tribute to their daughter, C. Elizabeth is a perfect representation of premium Cabernet Sauvignon from the vaunted Oakville region of Napa Valley.

From dreams to reality

Since purchasing Goosecross, Christ and Dave have infused the winery with a new energy, balancing respect for its past with a vision for its future. To make their winemaking vision a reality they hired New Zealander Bill Nancarrow, whose expertise has been pivotal in elevating the winery's single varietals and innovative blends. They also hired Chuck Peterson Architects to create a modern redesign of the visitor center that retains the essence of Napa Valley style. With features like a soaring ceiling, contrasting wood trusses, and natural stone, it offers a panoramic view of the vineyard. 

A legacy of passion and focus

Goosecross Cellars represents the harmonious blend of history, passion, terroir, and winemaking excellence. It's a place where both seasoned connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts can find something they love, all while retaining a welcoming tasting experience managed by an incredible team. 

Stock your cellar with wines from Goosecross.