Portrait of Ed Sbragia
i. Biography
The Climb
Training in chemistry gave Ed Sbragia a working start in wine: University of California, Davis and California State University, Fresno led into research chemist work at Gallo in Modesto. From there, the route moved through production roles that track a cellar-side climb in scale and responsibility — winemaker at Foppiano Vineyards in Sonoma County (1975–1976), assistant winemaker at Beringer Vineyards in Napa Valley (1976–1984), then winemaker at Beringer Vineyards in Napa Valley (1984–2008).
Within that span, the title of winemaster at Beringer Vineyards in Napa Valley (2001–2008) marked the top of that house path, followed by paid consultant at Beringer Vineyards in Napa Valley (from 2008). Since 2001, Ed Sbragia has also been founder winemaker of Sbragia Family Vineyards, keeping family production in Dry Creek Valley alongside his work at Beringer.
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Signature
The core bottles attached to Ed Sbragia's name include Private Reserve Cabernet, Private Reserve Chardonnay, Sbragia Limited Reserve Chardonnay, Nightingale, and 2005 Rancho Del Oso Cabernet Sauvignon.
In Their Words “It's a win-win situation. I'm having too much fun at Beringer now to leave. But this gives me something to look forward to, since I've wanted to do something with my family for years.”
Recognition
Wine Spectator named 1994 Private Reserve Chardonnay Wine of the Year, and later gave the same honor to 1986 Private Reserve Cabernet.
FAQ
Asked of Ed
What is Ed Sbragia's current role?
As of 2026, Ed Sbragia is Founder Winemaker.
Where did Ed Sbragia train or study?
Ed Sbragia trained at University of California, Davis and California State University, Fresno.
What recognition has Ed Sbragia received?
Wine Spectator Wine of the Year for 1994 Private Reserve Chardonnay (1994).
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The Sunday email
Read about winemakers like Ed Sbragia in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
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