Our Story
At Somerston Estate, our values are rooted in respect—for the land, for time, and for the people who gather here. We believe great wine and meaningful experiences are born from patience, thoughtful stewardship, and a deep connection to place. Every decision we make, from how we farm our vineyards to how we welcome our guests, is guided by craftsmanship, curiosity, and integrity.
We are committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Estate while creating moments that feel personal, generous, and enduring—because what we build today should be worthy of tomorrow.
A Look Into Our Estate
Craig Becker, Co-Founder & Founding Winemaker“We believe you can have all the elements of succcess – the land, the wine and the vision – but without the right team of people, success will remain out of reach.”
Commitment to Terroir
Home to 242 acres, the land is both our legacy and our responsibility. Every decision — from dry farming to sustainable vineyard practices — honors the balance between nature and craft. We nurture the soil with patience and respect, ensuring each vine reflects the integrity of its origin. Guided by stewardship rather than certification, our goal is simple: to preserve the purity of this place for generations to come.
Our Team
At Somerston Estate, leadership is defined by stewardship — of the land, the craft, and the legacy we build with each vintage. Guided by experience and curiosity, our team brings together decades of expertise across winemaking, culinary arts, and hospitality. Each member shares a singular vision: to honor this place and the people who care for it, creating wines and experiences that reflect time, terroir, and purpose.
Winemaker
Cody Hurd
Winemaker Cody Hurd brings over a decade of dedication to Somerston Estate. A Washington native, he began his journey here in 2010, working every role from cellar master to head winemaker. Guided by patience and precision, Cody crafts wines that reflect the character of each block and the spirit of the land. “My goal is to let the vineyard speak,” he says. “Great wine begins with understanding.”
Executive Chef
Dan Solomon
Chef Dan Solomon blends Midwestern roots with Napa Valley sophistication. A Chicago native and La Toque alum, his two decades of experience span from casual kitchens to fine dining. At Somerston Estate, he creates culinary experiences that mirror the wines — thoughtful, balanced, and deeply connected to the land. His cuisine celebrates the harmony of craft, season, and place.
Our Team
Judd Wallenbrock
CEO & President
Jake Knobloch
Director of Vineyard Management
Alex Gomez
Director of Hospitality and Consumer Direct Operations
Roberto Martinez
Cellar Master
Rodrigo Herrera Barajas
Cellar Worker
Cory DeLoach
Estate Manager and Brand Ambassador
Our Values
Somerston is a 242 acre winery estate hidden high in the eastern Vaca Mountains of Napa Valley. Established in 2007, the property is managed with the singular vision of becoming one of Napa Valley’s greatest estates. The estate has 242 acres of sustainably-farmed vineyards with 154 unique vineyard blocks, from which two distinct wine brands are produced – Somerston & Priest Ranch.
The Somerston wines showcase the highest quality single block wines on the property. With each vintage, the best sites are selected to produce distinctive block-designate wines.
Why Somerston
Somerston wines showcase the highest quality single block wines on the property. With each vintage, the best sites are selected to produce distinctive block-designate wines. We produce world-class, single block Cabernet Sauvignon that reflects the unique nature of each vineyard site.
