Matt Crafton

The Climb

Matt Crafton trained at University of Virginia and UC Davis (2008), and that education formed the technical base for the work that followed. In 2008, he moved into the cellar as enologist at Chateau Montelena Winery (2008–2014), where the job demanded precision and close attention to what each season yielded. From there, he advanced to winemaker at Chateau Montelena Winery (from 2014). The progression is straightforward: one estate, increasing responsibility, and a career shaped by accumulated trust.

Today

In 2014, Crafton became winemaker at the Calistoga winery, and the way he describes the role stays close to the raw material. He calls the vineyard “this raw material with so much potential,” and describes the work as taking “this humble ingredient” and making “something delicious but also inspiring.” The language is practical, not inflated. It points to the central task of winemaking: working from fruit, preserving intent, and turning that material into wine that holds its place at the table. He also keeps the end use in view, saying, “It’s great to be in the business of making people happy.”

Signature

Matt's signature wines include Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Calistoga Zinfandel, Potter Valley Riesling, and Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc. Together they cover a range of sites and varieties, with the portfolio moving between structure, brightness, and regional expression.

In Their Words “The vineyard produces this raw material with so much potential. My job is to take this humble ingredient and not only make something delicious but also inspiring.” “It’s great to be in the business of making people happy.”

Recognition

Crafton’s public record is defined by continuity at Chateau Montelena Winery: enologist from 2008 to 2014, then winemaker from 2014 onward. The facts are direct, and that is the point. The advancement reflects steady responsibility within one estate, where time and experience have shaped the work.