Far Niente Wine Estates has appointed Shawn Conway as CEO, following his recent departure from Ste Michelle Wine Estates.
Conway (below) succeeds interim CEO Carol Reber, who will transition to assume the chair of the Californian company’s board. In his new position, which he assumes this month, Conway will oversee Far Niente’s six wineries in the state: Nickel & Nickel, Bella Union, Post & Beam, EnRoute, Dolce and its namesake, Far Niente.
Conway started as CEO at Ste Michelle in March 2023. His earlier career includes senior leadership roles at Peet’s Coffee – where he served as chief supply chain officer, COO and CEO – and eight years with Skyy Spirits.
Global Drinks Intel has contacted Ste Michelle for details on its search for a new CEO.
Reber stepped in to head Far Niente in January following Steve Spadarotto’s retirement, having served as CEO since 2018.
“Shawn has a deep understanding of luxury wine and will continue Far Niente’s focus on crafting wines and experiences that exceed our customers’ expectations,” said Nick Hartman, equity partner at Apax Partners, which co-owns Far Niente alongside GI Partners.
Last month, US-based Cakebread Cellars named a former regional VP for Penfolds, David Amadia, as its CEO.
