Matt Ward

Matt Ward, the winemaker at Pride Mountain Vineyards, embodies the essence of dedication, passion, and innovation in the art of winemaking. His journey, marked by relentless pursuit of knowledge and a deep love for viticulture, has positioned him at the helm of one of the most esteemed wineries in Northern California.

Ward’s path to becoming a revered winemaker began with a bold move in 2010 when he left his Midwestern roots behind to chase his winemaking dream in Northern California. His initial steps in Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley, under the guidance of Kerry Damskey, saw him swiftly ascend from the production ranks to the role of a cellarmaster. This crucial phase of his career was defined by a hands-on approach and an unwavering commitment to learning the intricacies of winemaking.

Continuing his quest for knowledge, Ward pursued graduate studies in Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis. This academic endeavor culminated in a Master of Science degree, further refining his skills and understanding of the wine world. His academic accomplishments led him to a harvest position at the prestigious Screaming Eagle, followed by a leadership role at New Zealand’s Craggy Range, where he honed his expertise in Bordeaux varieties.

Before joining Pride Mountain Vineyards, Ward enriched his experience with Atelier Melka. Working alongside Philippe Melka and Maayan Koschitzky, he played a pivotal role in crafting wines for over 20 clients across Napa and Sonoma. This period was instrumental in shaping his approach to winemaking, allowing him to contribute to some of the finest wines from these renowned regions.

In August 2022, Ward’s journey took a significant turn as he joined Pride Mountain Vineyards as the winemaker. His arrival coincided with the onset of the 2017 harvest, marking the beginning of a new chapter at the winery. Working closely with his team, including long-time associate winemaker Romel Rivera and Steve Pride, Ward has brought a fresh perspective and innovative approach to the winery. His focus is unwavering: to produce the finest wines possible from the unique mountaintop fruit of Pride Mountain.

Ward’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the world of wine. His journey from a Midwest native to a master winemaker at Pride Mountain Vineyards reflects not just personal growth, but also the evolution of a winemaker who continually strives for excellence in every bottle. At Pride Mountain, Ward has found his perfect niche, where his skills, experience, and passion come together to create wines that are as remarkable as his journey.