Chris Kenefick

Growing up in the Bay Area, Chris Kenefick savored his regular visits to the ranch, which has always been like a second home. Chris had not yet been born when his father bought the ranch, so he wasn’t old enough to drink the first vintages made from the ranch’s fruit. But by the time he became of legal age, he was already interested in the world of viticulture, and was surprised by what high-level, sophisticated wines his family had been able to produce. ”They lived up to everything I’d heard about them, and they’ve informed the way I drink other wines, as well.”

Chris loves the quiet and the slower pace of this rural place, and fondly remembers exploring its hills, reservoirs, and fields as a kid. In the summer of 2016, Chris left his hospitality career to follow his passion for wine. From 2016 to 2021, Chris mainly focused on the national sales of Kenefick Ranch wines, while also learning all aspects of the business on both the vineyard and winery side. In 2021, after the passing of Chris's father, he took over as CEO, Second Generation Proprietor of Kenefick Ranch Vineyard & Winery.

"What started as a passion project for my dad became a second career late in his life. Walking the property, you can see the level of pride he took in the vineyard. I'm excited to continue that level of dedication to our property and our wines so that we can pass it on for generations to come."