Founded in 1996 by Leslie Rudd, Rudd Estate is a multigenerational winery handcrafting small production wines that reflect the ultimate expression of its world-class terroir by respecting the traditions of the past, challenging the present, and imagining future possibilities. Over the course of nearly three decades, the team at Rudd Estate has become intimately familiar with the geologic nuances that make its terroir unique: iconic red volcanic soils, the alluvial fan, and subterranean stream beds. Vineyards located in Napa Valley’s most celebrated Oakville appellation produce the Estate Red and Samantha’s Cabernet Sauvignon, and vineyards located on Mt. Veeder at a 1500-foot elevation produce the Sauvignon Blanc, Susan’s Blanc, and Leslie’s Blend.

Samantha grew up on Rudd Estate where, at age nine, she decided she would do whatever it takes to care for the land and fulfill a generational promise that she made to her father that upon taking the reins at Rudd, she would leave the Estate to the next generation better off than when she assumed leadership.

Samantha spent several years working outside of the family business learning from some of the best in the world, including Château Margaux and Spottswoode, both female run and owned winery estates.

Samantha returned to Rudd in December 2015, a homecoming she had been anticipating for as long as she can remember. She immediately began implementing her long-term vision, ranging from championing the Estate’s organic farming practices to fostering unlikely collaborations that seek inspiration beyond the world of fine wine.