Daniel Baron

Daniel Baron’s journey from a Long Island beach enthusiast to a celebrated winemaker is a tale of passion, dedication, and continuous improvement. Daniel’s remarkable career, spanning over two decades, culminated with his retirement at the end of 2016, marking the end of an era at Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars.

Daniel’s path to winemaking was unconventional. After contracting mononucleosis in college, he embarked on a cross-country road trip to San Francisco, which unknowingly set the foundation for his future in winemaking. Inspired by this journey, Daniel shifted his academic focus to Viticulture and Enology, earning his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from UC Davis.

Daniel’s pursuit of winemaking expertise took him to France, where he honed his skills under the guidance of Jean-Claude Berrouet at Château Pétrus. He later returned to California to manage Dominus, a new venture by the Moueix family in Napa Valley. His skills and passion for winemaking did not go unnoticed, leading to his pivotal role at Silver Oak in 1994. Handpicked by Justin Meyer, the founder of Silver Oak, Daniel became the second winemaker in the company’s history. Their partnership was a blend of mutual respect and shared vision, with Daniel continuing Justin’s legacy after his retirement in 2001.

During his tenure at Silver Oak and Twomey, Daniel was instrumental in shaping the distinctive profiles of their wines. He was deeply involved in the development of the Twomey brand, launched in 1999, and was renowned for his philosophy of continuous improvement and innovation. This ethos was not just confined to the wine itself but permeated the entire culture of the wineries, always striving for excellence.

Daniel’s impact on the wine industry is profound and enduring. His successor, Nate Weis, describes him as a mentor, leader, and integral part of the wineries’ legacy. Daniel’s influence extends beyond the wines he crafted; it is etched in the very ethos of Silver Oak and Twomey, a testament to his commitment to quality and innovation.

Though retired, Daniel Baron’s passion for winemaking continues as he takes on a consulting role, sharing his vast knowledge and experience. His personal life comes full circle as he returns to his roots, embracing the joys of sailing, surfing, and diving, reminiscent of his early days as a “beach rat.” His journey reflects a life dedicated to the pursuit of excellence and the joy of crafting something that brings happiness to others.