Jesse Fox

Jesse Fox, the visionary winemaker at Sequoia Grove, has been sculpting the future of this iconic winery since his arrival in February. At 43, his ambition is not just to maintain the winery’s esteemed reputation but to elevate it, ensuring Sequoia Grove wines embody the best of Napa Valley’s terroir. With Sequoia Grove’s recent $25 million investment in enhancing its winemaking and hospitality capabilities, including acquiring the 21-acre State Lane Vineyard and establishing a state-of-the-art facility, Jesse has all the tools at his disposal to turn vision into reality.

Jesse’s journey into the wine industry is a narrative of passion, curiosity, and serendipity. Growing up in a Philadelphia suburb, his culinary adventures began at home, under the influence of his mother’s love for cooking. This early exposure to the joy of food and flavors set the stage for his multifaceted career aspirations. Opting for a blend of culinary and business education, Jesse pursued a degree in Hospitality and Business Administration at Cornell University, where he found himself drawn to the world of wine and gastronomy.

His professional path is a testament to his diverse interests and talents. From his initial explorations in the hospitality industry, working in various roles at a winery in the Finger Lakes and as a chef in a restaurant, Jesse’s career trajectory took a significant turn towards winemaking. An unforgettable food and wine pairing experience with Wolfgang Puck during his college years sparked his fascination with the symbiotic relationship between wine and cuisine, guiding him towards the path he walks today.

The turning point in Jesse’s career came with the Kopf Family Foundation Scholarship, which allowed him to immerse himself in the global wine scene. This journey not only expanded his horizons but also solidified his desire to blend his culinary skills with winemaking. Upon returning to the U.S., Jesse honed his culinary prowess in prestigious New York restaurants before moving to California, where the allure of wine country and a position at The French Laundry awaited him. It was here, amidst the vines and the vibrant culinary landscape of Napa Valley, that Jesse’s passion for winemaking fully ignited.

Transitioning from the kitchen to the cellar, Jesse embarked on an apprenticeship at Harlan Estate, where he laid the groundwork for his winemaking philosophy. His tenure at Harlan and later roles at Promontory and Amici Cellars, coupled with international harvest experiences, enriched his understanding of viticulture and winemaking. Jesse’s approach is deeply rooted in a respect for the terroir, a commitment to sustainability, and a desire to create wines that resonate with both novices and connoisseurs alike.

At Sequoia Grove, Jesse’s culinary background and winemaking expertise converge, enabling him to craft wines that not only stand alone in excellence but also complement the culinary arts. His vision extends beyond producing outstanding wines; he aims to reinforce Sequoia Grove’s legacy as a creator of balanced, food-friendly wines that reflect the unique character of their vineyards. With the support of Rick Bonitati, Sequoia Grove’s president, and the dedicated team behind him, Jesse is poised to lead the winery into a new era of innovation and acclaim.

Beyond the vineyards and cellars, Jesse is a person of simple pleasures and profound insights. Preferring conversation to texts, relishing in the subtle complexity of white wines after a day’s work, and finding solace in outdoor activities and the culinary world, Jesse’s life is a mosaic of his passions. His down-to-earth demeanor, quick readiness, and love for Thanksgiving reveal a man who values tradition, family, and the simple joys of life.

Jesse Fox’s story is one of continuous growth, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep-seated love for the art of winemaking. At Sequoia Grove, he’s not just crafting wines; he’s nurturing a legacy that bridges tradition and innovation. With Jesse at the helm, the future of Sequoia Grove looks as rich and promising as the wines that flow from its cellars.