The former Shafer Vineyards Managing Director brings global expertise to support the family-owned estate’s continued growth and legacy.
August 22, 2025 (Napa, CA) — Darioush, a premier luxury winery estate in Napa Valley, is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew Sharp as President. Sharp will partner closely with Founding Proprietors Darioush and Shahpar Khaledi, along with their daughter, Sally, to shape the estate’s future and elevate its presence globally.
Sharp brings more than two decades of experience in fine wine, most recently serving as Managing Director at Shafer Vineyards. Recruited by Doug Shafer as Commercial Director, he played a pivotal role in expanding the portfolio across 25 new international markets, growing revenues in lock step with increased production volumes, and overseeing strategic investments to enhance winemaking facilities over the past nine years. Previously, Sharp led the U.S. on-premise portfolio for Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite), where he honed his reputation for building long-term partnerships and elevating some of the most respected names in fine wine.
Sharp’s connection to Darioush began in Southern California, when he first discovered its early vintages as a sommelier at the acclaimed La Cachette Restaurant in Los Angeles. Inspired by the wines’ distinctive style and Khaledi’s vision, he developed a lasting admiration for the estate—its independence as a family-owned winery and the values it upholds. Decades later, joining Darioush to help guide its future feels like a natural continuation of that early inspiration.
“Matthew brings both perspective and passion from his years of working with celebrated wine estates,” said Darioush Khaledi. “His vision and leadership will help us continue to innovate and expand thoughtfully, while preserving the values that define Darioush—commitment to quality, hospitality, and family.”
“I have long admired Darioush for its dedication to crafting benchmark Cabernet Sauvignon and creating one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive hospitality experiences,” said Sharp. “Returning to a family-owned estate is particularly meaningful to me—where heritage, authenticity, and personal connection are at the heart of every endeavor. I am honored to join Darioush, Shahpar, and Sally to build on this extraordinary legacy and extend our reach to clients around the world.”
With Sharp’s appointment, Darioush reinforces its commitment to legacy and innovation, guided by both its founding family and the next generation.
About Darioush
Darioush, an estate winery in Napa Valley, was founded in 1998 by Darioush and Shahpar Khaledi and provides visitors an intimate, welcoming, and a worldly escape in the heart of Napa Valley. Bridging old world traditions with new world winemaking, Darioush’s portfolio of wines are known for their individualism, complexity and gravitas. Operating at the highest level of quality for everything they do, from wine production, culinary offerings, and hospitality, Darioush sets the stage for world class, modern luxury in wine country. To purchase wines, reserve an experience or for more information, please visit darioush.com.
