After a remarkable career spanning more than four decades, Ted has stepped down from his emeritus. 

One of Napa Valley’s longest-tenured winemakers, Ted joined Freemark Abbey in 1980 as an assistant winemaker, after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and a master’s in food, science, and engineering from the University of California at Davis. Harboring aspirations to specialize in Cabernet Sauvignon, he was drawn to Freemark Abbey after its showing in the Judgment of Paris. Ted became Freemark Abbey’s head winemaker in 1985. Ted remained Freemark Abbey’s head winemaker until 2020, when he passed the baton to his handpicked successor, Kristy Melton, and subsequently moved into his winemaker emeritus role.

Over the 42-year run of his extraordinary wine career, Ted maintained an unwavering approach to establish a signature style of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that was elegant, restrained, and age-worthy. He created the distinctive style of the iconic, single-vineyard Sycamore Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and continued the legacy of the vineyard-designated Cabernet Bosché, garnering critical acclaim for these wines. Ted leaves a legacy of not only helping to define Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon but also of cementing Freemark Abbey’s reputation as a world-class winery.

Ted will continue participate in future events hosted by Freemark Abbey Winery, as it holds a special place in his heart and will forever be considered his second home.