Josh Widaman

Josh Widaman, the accomplished head estate winemaker for Pine Ridge Vineyards, boasts an impressive 20-year journey in crafting top-rated Napa Valley wines. Known for his discerning, luxury-oriented palate, he’s achieved 90+ ratings on over 90% of the wines he’s produced throughout his career, including the prestigious Wine Spectator’s #1 Wine of the Year in 2016 with Lewis Cellars.

Josh’s passion for winemaking was sparked during the 1999 vintage at Stags’ Leap Winery when a life-changing sip of 1997 Pahlmeyer Merlot ignited his desire to create exceptional wines. He pursued this passion at UC Davis, graduating with a degree in Viticulture and Enology in 2002, later enhancing his wine business acumen with an MBA from Sonoma State University.

His global winemaking experiences in regions like the Douro, Burgundy, Chile, Greece, and Germany have enriched his perspective and skill. Josh’s return to the Stags Leap District, where his winemaking journey began, reflects his unwavering commitment to producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon wines that honor their origins and set new standards for terroir expression. Josh’s dedication to both his craft and personal life, filled with culinary adventures and family fun, shapes the distinctive character of Pine Ridge Vineyards’ wines.