Our Story

Barry & Sang Milea

PROPRIETORS & WINERY FOUNDERS

In 2015, Barry and Sang realized their longtime aspiration of launching Milea Estate Vineyard, bringing sustainably produced regional wines to New York City while supporting local farmers in the Hudson River Valley. Their commitment to sustainable winemaking and modern viticulture techniques has quickly established Milea Estate as one of the premier Hudson Valley wineries.

  • Sang grew up on a farm in Korea, and is the driving force behind the organic gardens at Milea Estate Vineyard. Sang is also an accomplished equestrienne, practicing the elegant and demanding sport of dressage on our estate property. A food lover with a discerning palate, Sang is actively involved with the winemaking at Milea Estate, ensuring our wines reflect the unique Hudson Valley terroir.

  • Barry spent his youth driving trucks and working construction before launching his own business, Milea Auto Group in the Bronx. Through this work, Barry became a leader in importing and selling electric commercial trucks in the United States. In 1984, Barry and his father, “Papa Joe” Milea, purchased the historic farm property that would later become home to Milea Estate Vineyard, one of the region’s fastest-growing New York wineries.

Meet the Team

  • Darren Chertkoff

    WINEMAKER

    Darren leads winemaking at Milea Estate Vineyard, bringing more than 18 years of experience from some of the world's most celebrated wine regions, including Napa Valley, Sonoma, the Barossa Valley, Hawke's Bay, and Walla Walla. His wines have earned recognition from Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator, Vinous, and Wine Enthusiast.

    Before joining Milea, Darren crafted wines for acclaimed brands including Yao Family Wines, Taub Family Wines, and Vanderpump Wines.

    At Milea, Darren oversees every aspect of the winemaking process—from sustainable vineyard practices to blending and bottling—with a philosophy centered on balance, precision, and the authentic expression of the Hudson Valley terroir. He holds a Master of Viticulture and Oenology from the University of Adelaide and a Ph.D. in Geology.

  • Mina Do

    COO

    Mina studied economics in her native Korea before moving to the United States.

    Her path led her through some of New York City's most celebrated dining rooms, including Nomad, Bouley, and L'Appart, before serving as Sommelier and Captain at the Michelin three-star Chef's Table at Brooklyn Fare. Along the way, she discovered her passion for wine after tasting the legendary 1985 Henri Jayer Vosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux.

    At Milea Estate Vineyard, Mina oversees operations, bringing together her love of hospitality, food, and wine to create thoughtful, memorable guest experiences.

  • David Kim

    EXECUTIVE CHEF

    At the age of 14, David moved from Korea to Dallas, Texas. He studied Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston before discovering his true passion for cooking. He went on to attend the Culinary Institute of America, where he trained in classical French cuisine and completed an externship under renowned chef David Bouley.

    David's cuisine reflects the precision of his French culinary training while drawing inspiration from the bold flavors and traditions of his Korean heritage. The result is a distinctive dining experience that balances refined technique with thoughtful, contemporary interpretations of Korean flavors.