Accomplished chef to elevate wine and dining experiences
across brand’s multiple venues
(May 9, 2023; Yountville, CA) – Craig Becker, director of viticulture and winemaking at Somerston Estate, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dan Solomon as executive chef of the prestigious Napa Valley wine estate. Beginning this spring, Chef Dan is set to enhance the wine and dining experiences across Somerston Estate, including the Priest Ranch tasting room in the heart of downtown Yountville, the forthcoming adjacent restaurant, The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, as well as private culinary events at the sprawling 1,682-acre Somerston Estate nestled in Napa Valley’s eastern Vaca Mountain range.
In his new role, Chef Dan brings an impressive resume that showcases both his Michelin starred experience and humble Midwestern roots. Focusing on approachable cuisine that melds his passion for fermentation, an affinity for Chicago-style dishes, and high-quality, seasonal ingredients, his vision and concept will first come to life in the opening of the highly anticipated The Kitchen at Priest Ranch in the heart of Yountville. Offering a casual yet delectable menu that perfectly complements Priest Ranch’s portfolio of wines, Chef Dan and his team will also deliver unforgettable wine experiences at the Priest Ranch tasting room, as well as elevated food experiences at the vast Somerston Estate property.
“Chef Dan demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to food that has been shaped by his diverse experiences in different kitchens,” says Craig Becker. “His expertise in wine pairing and dedication to creating memorable dining experiences will be an asset to The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, as well as our winery’s ambitions to offer uncommon and memorable visits. These dishes will be those that guests will want to indulge in regularly.”
Born and raised in the western suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, Chef Dan’s culinary journey began at the young age of 16 when he began making pizza and pasta at a small mom and pop shop outside of the city. After studying Culinary Arts at Kendall College, he honed his craft in diverse settings throughout the greater Chicago area. His appointment at Somerston Estate marks a return to Napa Valley, having previously worked at the esteemed La Toque restaurant, where he first cultivated a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between food and wine.
“I believe that food and wine go hand in hand and look forward to creating a casual yet delicious menu that perfectly complements Priest Ranch’s portfolio of wines,” says Chef Dan. “Our collective goal is to create quality, approachable food that just tastes good. We’re not only feeding people, but we’re also providing an experience.”
For more information on the opening of The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, visit www.thekitchenatpr.com for exclusive updates.
For more information about Somerston Estate and its culinary offerings, please visit www.priestranchwines.com
About Somerston Estate
Nestled in the eastern Vaca range of the Napa Valley, Somerston Estate is a 1,682-acre property that houses two premier wine brands: Priest Ranch and Somerston Napa Valley. With 236 acres of vines, the estate’s Somerston Vineyard encompasses two valleys, 17 distinct vineyard sites and 140 unique blocks, with elevations spanning 800 to 1,650 ft. Under the direction of co-founder, general manager, and director of winemaking, Craig Becker, and the experienced winemaking, vineyard management, and hospitality team, the collective focus centers on celebrating a rich agricultural heritage through leadership-driven viticulture and viniculture practices and cultivated wine and food experiences.
Established in 2007, Priest Ranch is dedicated to cultivating excellence in wine and land stewardship, building an atmosphere of hospitality and camaraderie, and creating wines of uncommon quality. Priest Ranch produces a collection of unexpected proprietary blends and Bordeaux varietal wines reflective of the full diversity of the Somerston Estate. Guests can visit the Priest Ranch tasting room in the heart of downtown Yountville to savor a selection of wines in a lively setting, complete with food and wine pairings, live music and more. For details on Priest Ranch, visit www.priestranchwines.com. For reservations, visit exploretock.com/
Somerston Napa Valley represents the evolution of the estate’s legacy, specializing in meticulously crafted wines made in limited quantities, exclusively during exceptional vintages. Somerston Napa Valley wines capture the essence of mountain fruit and offer a singular expression of select single estate blocks that merit bottling. Located in the hills 10 miles east of St Helena, guests may visit Somerston Estate to experience a deeper understanding of the wines and property through exclusive tours and tastings at the winery. Available by appointment only, more information can be found at www.somerstonestate.com.
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