Keith Emerson

Keith Emerson, a seasoned winemaker with over two decades of experience, has carved out a distinguished career in the world of wine, culminating in his role as President and CEO of the esteemed Vineyard 29. Emerson’s journey in winemaking began in 1998 at Cakebread Cellars, marking the start of a path filled with dedication and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His pursuit of enological knowledge led him to Sonoma’s historic Gundlach Bundschu Winery, where he honed his skills as an enologist.

A pivotal moment in Emerson’s career came in 2004, when he embarked on a sabbatical to New Zealand. There, he worked the harvest for Palliser Estate Wines in Martinborough, gaining international experience and a broader perspective on winemaking. This global exposure would later influence his winemaking style, emphasizing the unique characteristics of each vineyard site.

Since 2005, Emerson has been an integral part of Vineyard 29, overseeing the winery’s diverse portfolio and managing ultra-premium custom crush clientele. His leadership and vision were recognized in 2022 when he was appointed President and CEO, following Chuck’s retirement. Under Emerson’s guidance, Vineyard 29 continues to produce exceptional estate wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Zinfandel.

In addition to his work at Vineyard 29, Emerson is involved in several other wine brands, showcasing his versatility and passion for the craft. These brands include Emerson Brown, atLarge, and Sonria, as well as collaborations with Robert Craig Winery, Vinoce, Knighton Family, Labry, Sang-Froid, Vineyard 36, Martin Ray, and Gundlach Bundschu.

Emerson’s educational background, with a degree in Enology and Viticulture from the University of California, Davis, obtained in 1999, has provided a solid foundation for his winemaking philosophy. His approach is centered on capturing the essence of each vineyard site, a testament to his belief in the importance of terroir. This philosophy, combined with his relentless work ethic, has brought significant recognition to his craft, including the 2013 Vineyard 29 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, which received a perfect 100-point score from Wine Advocate.

As a United States-born winemaker, Keith Emerson’s journey in the wine industry is a narrative of passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His impact on the world of wine is marked by a legacy of quality and innovation, inspiring future generations of winemakers.