Warner DeJulio on Crafting Connection Through Wine

The Sommelier

Warner DeJulio is not your average winemaker. His story begins in Norridge, a close-knit suburb of Chicago, where a simple invitation to help a friend make wine in a garage turned into a passion that would shape his life. Warner's background in computer science might seem like an unlikely starting point for a career in winemaking, but his methodical mindset and determination have been instrumental in the creation of VIN 312, a boutique winery in Ravenswood.

For Warner, wine is more than just a beverage; it’s a medium for connection. He describes wine as a "vehicle for bringing people together," emphasizing that this isn’t just a romantic notion—it’s real. Across cultures, wine has played a role in celebrations, from weddings to welcoming new life. Warner believes this universal aspect of wine fosters a sense of community and shared experience that’s hard to replicate.

His journey from hobbyist to professional winemaker wasn’t without challenges. Early attempts at home winemaking were experimental and rooted in tradition. A turning point came when Warner decided to pursue formal education in oenology—the study of winemaking—at the urging of his father, who advised him to "do it right." Armed with newfound knowledge, Warner navigated the labyrinthine licensing process and eventually launched VIN 312. His first batches of wine, made in collaboration with a Michigan winery, were crafted with grapes sourced from California and Washington. Transporting the finished product back to Chicago in the dead of winter exemplified Warner's resilience and commitment.

The philosophy behind VIN 312 extends beyond the wine itself. Warner takes pride in the intentionality behind every bottle. From sourcing premium grapes to ensuring ethical treatment of vineyard workers, each step reflects his belief that the energy and care put into the process affect the final product. "If the field hands aren’t happy, it shows in the wine," Warner explains. For him, winemaking is a relay race, with each participant—from grower to winemaker—passing the baton until the wine reaches the consumer.

One of Warner’s goals is to demystify wine for everyday people. He acknowledges that wine can feel intimidating, particularly in settings where options are overwhelming or language barriers exist. To combat this, Warner focuses on education. At VIN 312's speakeasy-style tasting room, visitors are encouraged to learn about the winemaking process while enjoying a glass. Warner even invites wine club members to participate in hands-on activities like punchdowns, offering a rare glimpse into the labor behind the craft.

Warner’s wines stand out not just for their quality but for the stories they tell. For instance, his Chenin Blanc carries notes of white peaches and floral aromas, characteristics derived solely from the grape’s terroir. "People ask how many peaches we add to the fermenter," Warner jokes. "None. The magic is in the grapes." This authenticity contrasts sharply with mass-produced wines, which often rely on added sugars to mask imperfections—a practice Warner staunchly avoids.

In a market saturated with choices, Warner underscores the importance of understanding what makes a wine unique. Whether it’s the care put into farming practices or the distinctive qualities of a varietal, he believes that good wine is an experience worth savoring. His advice to those new to wine is simple: don’t overthink it. "Find something you like and start there," he says, noting that wine is ultimately about enjoyment, not perfection.

At its core, VIN 312 is about more than selling wine; it’s about creating moments of connection. Warner recounts how guests at the winery often share bottles and stories with strangers, turning a casual visit into a memorable experience. This, he says, is the true purpose of wine: to bring people together. Whether it’s a date night, a family dinner, or a celebration, Warner hopes his wines serve as the backdrop for meaningful moments.

Warner’s dedication to his craft and community is evident in every detail of VIN 312, from the label design to the ambiance of the tasting room. His story reminds you that the best wines are those made with passion, purpose, and a little bit of soul.