Winemaking

Experience Excellence Through Kristy Melton's Mastery

A Legacy of Innovation Continues

Since our founding in 1886, Freemark Abbey has been distinguished by visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Today, Kristy Melton carries forward this heritage as only our eighth winemaker in nearly 140 years, bringing her expertise to honor the pioneering spirit established by Josephine Tychson, one of Napa Valley's first female vintners.

Kristy's appointment represents the continuation of a remarkable legacy—one that has consistently redefined what exceptional winemaking can achieve. Her forward-thinking approach ensures that while we remain deeply rooted in our storied past, our finest wines are yet to come.

"Nature does not stand still, and neither does our winemaking."

Kristy Melton

A Foundation Built on Science and Passion

Kristy's journey to winemaking excellence began with a rigorous scientific foundation. A native of El Paso, Texas, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Animal Science from Angelo State University before serving as a research scientist at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland.

Her transition from laboratory to vineyard was inspired by a transformative family trip to Napa Valley, leading her to pursue a master's degree in Viticulture and Enology from the University of California, Davis, in 2007. This unique combination of scientific rigor and passionate dedication to the craft defines her approach to winemaking.

Distinguished Recognition and Expertise

Kristy Melton brings an extraordinary depth of knowledge and acclaim to Freemark Abbey. Recognized among Wine Enthusiast Magazine's prestigious "Top 40 under 40 Tastemakers" and Drinks Business' "Top 30 under 40 Winemakers to Watch," her reputation for excellence precedes her arrival at our historic St. Helena estate.

Her mastery of Bordeaux varietals is unparalleled, honed through three years as Bordeaux Winemaker for Jackson Family Wines, where she oversaw the Cabernet and Merlot programs across multiple premium properties. This experience, combined with her remarkable palate and profound understanding of grape growing, positions her uniquely to elevate our legendary wines.

Honoring Our Heritage, Crafting Our Future

Under Kristy's guidance, Freemark Abbey continues to honor the visionary spirit of Josephine Tychson while embracing the innovations that will define our next chapter. Her exceptional palate, combined with decades of collective winemaking wisdom preserved within our historic stone walls, ensures that each bottle represents both our past and future.

As Kristy herself observes, "Nature does not stand still, and neither does our winemaking." This philosophy embodies the progressive spirit that has distinguished Freemark Abbey for nearly 140 years.

Josephine Cabernet Sauvignon on Freemark Abbey barrels

Kristy Melton and Ted Edwards in a vineyard

The Remarkable Career of Ted Edwards

After more than four decades of distinguished service at Freemark Abbey, Ted Edwards concluded his emeritus role. As one of Napa Valley's most accomplished and longest-tenured winemakers, he joined our winery in 1980, having earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and a Master of Science in Food Science and Engineering from University of California, Davis. He became head winemaker in 1985 and guided our winemaking program until 2020, when he passed the responsibility to his carefully chosen successor, Kristy Melton.

Throughout his remarkable 42-year tenure, Ted masterfully defined an elegant, restrained, and exceptionally age-worthy style of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, skillfully shaped our iconic Sycamore Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, and furthered the distinguished legacy of Cabernet Bosché, earning widespread acclaim and solidifying Freemark Abbey's world-class reputation. In 2023, Ted Edwards completed his retirement, entrusting Kristy with the full scope of winemaking responsibilities.