Wine is more than what’s in the bottle—it’s about the experience, the stories shared, and the people brought together over a great glass of wine. That philosophy has been at the heart of Grand Napa since its founding in 2008 by Dwight Bonewell, a visionary driven by his deep passion for wine and hospitality.
Originally from Minnesota, Dwight built his career in the restaurant industry, where he witnessed firsthand the way wine has the power to transform a meal, spark conversation, and create lasting memories. Through years of curating wine lists and serving guests, he developed an appreciation for not just fine wines but also the connections they fostered. His business partner, Brad Ketz, shared that same belief. They both recognized an industry challenge—while Napa Valley was renowned for its exceptional wines, the prestige and pricing often made them feel out of reach for many who simply wanted to enjoy great wine without pretense or intimidation.
The vision was simple yet ambitious: to craft world-class Napa Valley wines that weren’t just for collectors and connoisseurs, but for everyday wine lovers seeking quality, authenticity, and approachability. By forging partnerships with some of Napa’s finest vineyards and embracing a meticulous winemaking approach, Grand Napa quickly gained a reputation for producing balanced, expressive, and elegant wines that truly capture the essence of the region.
What began as a passion for winemaking in Napa Valley soon transformed into a global journey, as we set out to share our love for wine with the world. Our journey took us beyond California’s borders, bringing our wines to Asia—from the vibrant streets of Shanghai to the sun-drenched shores of Thailand—then onward to South America, Europe, and beyond. We brought the essence of Napa Valley to tables around the world, creating connections and unforgettable moments through the universal language of wine.
But making great wine isn’t only about passion—it takes persistence, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in what you’re building. After years of Dwight’s relentless dedication, long days in the vineyards, and a commitment to doing things the right way—not the easy way—led to a defining moment: acquiring our very own vineyards in Rutherford, one of Napa Valley’s most legendary wine-growing regions. Owning vineyards in Rutherford wasn’t just a milestone—it was proof that dedication and grit could carve out a place among Napa’s finest. With complete control over quality, farming, and winemaking, we could craft wines that truly embody the heart and soul of Napa Valley.
A few years later, Dwight’s son, Zach, joined the family business, marking a new chapter in our journey. With Zach on board, Grand Napa wasn’t just about making great wine anymore —it was about carrying a family legacy forward, one that blends tradition with innovation and a commitment to making Napa Valley’s finest wines accessible to all.
What began as a passion for winemaking in Napa Valley soon transformed into a global journey, as we set out to share our love for wine with the world. Our journey took us beyond California’s borders, bringing our wines to Asia—from the vibrant streets of Shanghai to the sun-drenched shores of Thailand—then onward to South America, Europe, and beyond. We brought the essence of Napa Valley to tables around the world, creating connections and unforgettable moments through the universal language of wine.
But making great wine isn’t only about passion—it takes persistence, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in what you’re building. After years of Dwight’s relentless dedication, long days in the vineyards, and a commitment to doing things the right way—not the easy way—led to a defining moment: acquiring our very own vineyards in Rutherford, one of Napa Valley’s most legendary wine-growing regions. Owning vineyards in Rutherford wasn’t just a milestone—it was proof that dedication and grit could carve out a place among Napa’s finest. With complete control over quality, farming, and winemaking, we could craft wines that truly embody the heart and soul of Napa Valley.
A few years later, Dwight’s son, Zach, joined the family business, marking a new chapter in our journey. With Zach on board, Grand Napa wasn’t just about making great wine anymore —it was about carrying a family legacy forward, one that blends tradition with innovation and a commitment to making Napa Valley’s finest wines accessible to all.
No job is too big or too small at Grand Napa—everyone rolls up their sleeves and does what needs to be done. Whether it’s walking the vineyards to check on the fruit, working harvest late into the night, or ensuring our wines find their way into the right hands around the world, we are fully committed to the craft and the people who enjoy our wines.
At the heart of our winemaking is Stéphane Vivier, whose old world expertise and hands-on approach shape every bottle. Born and raised in Burgundy, France, Stéphane trained in the region’s prestigious vineyards before refining his craft at top estates in California. His philosophy is simple: let the vineyard speak. Working hand in hand with Dwight, Stéphane brings his extensive experience and artistry to every vintage, blending their shared vision for quality, authenticity, and approachability in every bottle.
What makes Grand Napa stand out isn’t just our wines—it’s our philosophy. We honor time-honored European winemaking traditions while embracing the bold, pioneering spirit of Napa Valley. Our wines carry the structure and elegance of classic vintages, yet exude the vibrancy and depth that make this region so special. Each bottle reflects this harmony—heritage meets innovation, craftsmanship meets passion.
Though Grand Napa was founded nearly 20 years ago, in many ways, we’re still the new kids in the valley. Surrounded by some of the most renowned wineries in the world, we welcome the challenge—it drives us to be better every single day. Because great wine isn’t built on reputation alone; it’s forged through passion, precision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Grand Napa Vineyards, located beside Highway 29 in Rutherford, California, has a storied history dating back to the 1800’s. In 1838, when California was still part of Mexico, 11,814 acres from the Caymus Rancho were granted to explorer George Yount by General Mariano G. Vallejo. A cowboys’ bunkhouse built in 1888 still stands here, and nearby Yount planted Napa’s first grape vines. The owners in the early 1900’s, left a colorful mark on the property, painting their stucco house in their favorite color, pink. This is now where the hand-crafted Stone Crib is located on the property. Notably, our estate shares the neighborhood with some of the most esteemed wineries in the world. A unique feature is that if you happen to take the Napa Valley Wine Train, you can wave hello to our charming estate along your journey through Napa. In 1999, our vineyards were re-planted with primarily Cabernet Sauvignon (Davis Clone 6 and Clone 337) and Cabernet Franc (Clone 336). We introduced our Stone Crib estate wine paying tribute to the estate’s rich history. Each bottle we produce carries not only the flavors and aromas of the vineyard but also the spirit of a shared vision for wines of unparalleled excellence. As a family-owned and operated winery, we take immense pride in our heritage and legacy. Our commitment to producing high-quality wines is a labor of love that has been passed down through generations. In addition to our own, we work with the farmers the finest grapes from the best vineyards in Napa Valley, ensuring that every sip of our wine is a testament to the artistry and dedication that goes into crafting it. Here’s to the love of wine, the love of family, and the love of sharing something truly special with you.