My name is Claire Ducrocq Weinkauf.

I am the owner and winemaker of Picayune Cellars and I am originally from France, maybe you can hear my accent!

Picayune Cellars (pronounced Pee-ka-yun, meaning a little bit in old French) was founded in 2011 out of the desire to drink wines that I stylistically loved.

From the initial Sauvignon Blanc, the project has been growing organically with me adding wines that I am excited about and eager to drink and share. Today I make a dozen wines. I look forward hosting you at my unique tasting room in Calistoga where I can share my wines, my stories and all the things that I love with you.

I am proud to say that Picayune is much more than just wines. Picayune is about lifestyle and community. Starting Claire de Lune Journeys was a natural next step in my growth as there is nothing that can make me more happy than sharing about food, wine and celebrate life together on one of my journeys in France and around the world.

Cheers, à bientôt,

Claire on Catamaran

Testimonials

Susie & Bob Buckley - Antarctica 2025

“This trip was an unforgettable adventure, flawlessly organized to maximize every moment. So much fun! From breathtaking glaciers to vibrant city streets, each experience was enriched by Claire’s expertly planned wine tastings and vineyard visits. Claire brought every destination to life with enthusiasm, extensive  knowledge and a true love for travel and wine!  Would definitely recommend! .”

Alia & Grant Matthews - Antarctica 2025

“We have been traveling with Claire since 2019. Our first trip was to the Champagne Valley and it was such an amazing experience that we knew we would do any of her trips in the future that we could! With Covid, sadly, the next chance for us wasn’t until 2023 when we did her yacht trip in Croatia. Then, in 2025, we did Antarctica and Argentina with her!

What I love about her trips is everything is taken care of. You book it and fly out there and then she takes the reins. She has calm, peaceful trips like the barge trip through Champagne Valley or exciting and adventurous trips like Antarctica and Argentina. You will find a trip that matches what you are looking for with Claire de Lune Journeys! We are so excited to be going to Alsace in 2026 with Claire. The trips are fun, with the opportunity to make lifelong friendships. You also will learn so much about wine! Highly recommend!”

Marc & Kristi Tatarian - Antarctica 2025

“We just completed our third trip over the last couple of years with Claire and we can’t be more pleased and now have wonderful memories of each. From start to finish, Claire is there every step of the way.  From pre-trip information and Q&A sessions, timely emails, and informative itineraries to exceptionally organized excursions during the trip, you feel no loose ends.

The small group size of each trip lets you  maximize the experience or if you prefer, just sit back and relax. No pressures! Claire is also a text book when it comes to wine and you walk away with an expanded palate and knowledge of each experience. Finally, Claire always adds in fun to each trip which blends right in with her playful side. We’ll be looking forward to our fourth trip!”