Keith Emerson

When Keith Emerson joined Gundlach Bundschu Winery as winemaker in December 2008, it was a sort of homecoming. A 1999 graduate of University of California at Davis, he served as Gundlach Bundschu associate winemaker from 2000 to 2004. He returns to the estate with a honed vision and proven experience to match his passion for the site.

After earning his degree, Keith spent a year at Cakebread Cellars before joining Gundlach Bundschu. In 2004, he worked a harvest at Palliser Estate in Martinborough, New Zealand, before returning to Northern California and becoming Director of Winemaking for Vineyard 29 in St. Helena, CA.

At Vineyard 29, Keith works closely with consultant Philippe Melka on the estate and Aida wines and directs all aspects of winemaking for the CRU Napa Valley label. He also oversees the program for custom-crush clientele, including Andy Erickson and Celia Masyczek, and works with several respected growers, including David Abreu, Mike Wolf, Jim Barbour, Piña Vineyard Management and Silverado Farming Company, among others.

Keith also consults for Robert Craig and other esteemed wineries, and produces his own label of artisan cabernet sauvignon, Emerson Brown.

It is Keith’s experience with these diverse vineyards that has inspired his return to Gundlach Bundschu. “My goal as a winemaker is to tell the story of each vineyard site,” Emerson said. “I know the Gundlach Bundschu estate, and I believe strongly in its potential to produce stellar wines. I am extremely motivated to work with Jeff and the team to take these wines to the highest quality level.”

At Gundlach Bundschu, Keith will work closely with lead associate winemaker Anne Dempsey, who directs daily cellar operations and associate winemaker Jessica Koga, who oversees all laboratory responsibilities.

Keith lives with his family in Napa, CA.