January 20, 2026 (Calistoga, CA) — Chateau Montelena today announced the appointment of Matthew Crafton to President, expanding his responsibilities as Winemaker to assume strategic and operational guidance for the winery. This leadership transition signifies a deliberate evolution for the historic Napa Valley estate as it enters its next chapter.
In this expanded role, Crafton will lead long-term strategy, oversee day-to-day operations and provide integrated leadership across the organization. This marks the first time in the winery’s modern history that the position of President has been extended beyond the Barrett family, underscoring a foundation of trust and a decisive step toward the future of Chateau Montelena.
Crafton has been a central figure at Chateau Montelena for more than a decade, joining the winery as Enologist in 2008 after earning his degree in Viticulture and Enology from the University of California, Davis. He was promoted to Winemaker in 2014 and has since guided Montelena through a period of thoughtful progress including refining vineyard practices, advancing investments in quality and strengthening the winery’s reputation as the benchmark for age-worthy wines defined by place and vintage.
“Matthew has earned this role through years of mentorship, discipline and a deep understanding of who we are and where we’re going,” said Bo Barrett. “This appointment reflects our ongoing vision for Montelena and our confidence in Matthew to help carry the winery forward with clarity and dedication.”
Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Judgment of Paris in 2026, both achievements serve as forward-looking inflection points. The same conviction that once challenged centuries of convention continues to shape how Chateau Montelena approaches progress today. Crafton’s appointment reflects that purpose, aligning the winery’s heritage with ambitions for the future, guided by the belief that legitimacy is earned through authenticity, intention and sustained commitment to what comes next.
“The Barrett family has always led Chateau Montelena with a long-term view,” said Crafton. “Stepping into this position gives me the responsibility to put that philosophy into action, ensuring that every decision from the vineyard to the cellar to operations supports the health of the estate and the integrity of the wines for generations to come.”
Chateau Montelena remains one of America’s most historically significant wineries, responsible for redefining global expectations of fine wine and challenging established tradition. As the estate looks ahead, Crafton’s expanded leadership reinforces an approach that has defined Montelena for generations: thoughtful stewardship, disciplined decision-making and an unwavering commitment to crafting wines that endure. Under this new era, the winery continues to invest in its land, its people and its future, building upon a reputation not by standing still, but by moving forward with purpose.
About Chateau Montelena
Chateau Montelena has a celebrated history, most widely known for winning the “Judgment of Paris” in 1976, a legacy responsible for reshaping the global perception of fine wine and firmly establishing America’s place on the world stage. Today, Chateau Montelena stands as a quality icon, consistently producing some of the finest and sought-after wines in the country. Bo Barrett stands as Owner and Matthew Crafton serves as President & Winemaker. With over fifty years of Barrett ownership, the winery has cultivated a profound understanding of the Montelena Estate, crafting age worthy wines that express one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive growing sites while revealing the special and unique characteristics of every vintage.
