In the spring 2005, Jon Priest moved north from Santa Barbara, where he had been winemaker at TAZ Vineyards, to become the general manager and winemaker of Etude. His strong background and understanding of cool climate vartiels, particularly Pinot and Chardonnay, made him a perfect fit for Etude.
Since that time, Jon has worked closely with Etude’s founder, Tony Soter, to preserve the winery’s signature vinegrowing and winemaking philosophy that is based on sustainable vineyard management and minimal winemaking intervention, resulting in wines with authentic varietal expression.
In addition to being a superb winemaker, Jon is also an acclaimed horseman, earning his college degree in Steeplechase. Jon is among an elite group of California equestrians who compete in racing events covering great distances over legendary trails once crossed by earlier pioneers. It is not uncommon to spot Jon and his wife Kathy on horseback keeping a close eye on Etude’s estate Carneros vineyards, Grace Benoist Ranch.