NVHF Co-Founder and Advisor
If you’re looking for guidance on the Forum’s history, need help navigating board processes, or want insight from years of industry experience, George is your go-to. With over 15 years in wine hospitality and deep roots in the Forum, he continues to support both behind the scenes and during major events. He also offers valuable advice to current board members and helps keep things running smoothly.
Professional Profile
Estate Director - Chateau Montelena
Email: GBlanckensee@montelena.com
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-time relationship with Chateau Montelena as a buyer and supporter, he eventually joined the team at Montelena in 2009.
Along with his tenure at Chateau Montelena, George has been active within the Napa Valley Community, sitting on the Executive board of the Calistoga Winegrower’s Association for over 8 years, and currently on the board for the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce.
Along with the late Kerry Andrews, George helped create the Napa Valley Hospitality Forum over 12 years ago, realizing the need to have like minded professionals in the wine industry gather and discuss the operational opportunities and challenges we face in the valley; finding and sharing common solutions and ideas.