Winemaker Jesse Katz is globally recognized for creating exceptional wines. He also consults for elite clients and has earned multiple 100-point ratings from top critics.
Katz’s background, combined with experience making wine across the globe, has given him a unique vision for identifying extraordinary vineyard sites that preserve and showcase the distinctive qualities of each location and varietal, often in areas others have overlooked. He is proud to say Sonoma County is such a place.
Amber Turpin: What’s your job?
Jesse Katz: Founder and head winemaker of Aperture Cellars and Devil Proof Vineyards.
How did you get into that work?
My passion for wine began during my youth through travels with my family, following my artist father, Andy Katz, whose photography projects often took us to some of the world’s best wine estates and regions. These journeys instilled in me a deep appreciation for the culture, terroir, and artistry of winemaking and viticulture.
This passion led me to an immersive journey into the wine world, including studies at Fresno State and hands-on experience at prestigious estates such as PĂ©trus, Screaming Eagle, Viña Cobos, Bodega NoemĂa and many others.
I feel very fortunate to have observed how great wines are made in diverse styles, climates, regions and soils throughout my life—from childhood to my professional career. Introduced to wine in my early teens through my father’s artwork, I have always been attuned to the sense of place, with an artistic approach deeply ingrained in me.
Did you ever have an “aha” moment with a certain beverage? If so, tell us about it.
Learning that some of the best cabernet sauvignons and Bordeaux varietal wines in the world are being made in Sonoma.
What is your favorite thing to drink at home?
Wine. I love—and drink—a lot of different types of wines. My wine choice depends on the setting, company, what I’m eating, etc. I drink a lot of Champagne, aromatic whites, blends, and cabernet sauvignons from all over the world, but always enjoy trying new things.
Where do you like to go out for a drink?
We are blessed with a ton of wonderful options in Sonoma, but a go-to spot for me is chef Dustin Valette’s Rooftop 106. I also love going out for drinks at the outdoor patio at Hazel Hill, which overlooks the stunning vineyards of the Montage Healdsburg Resort. The restaurant’s menu pairs perfectly with the Montage’s estate wine, Surveyor (I was involved in officially launching the exclusive label’s first vintages when the resort opened).
If you were stuck on a desert island, what would you want to be drinking (besides fresh water)?
One of our single vineyard wines from Aperture. I think it would help bring me back home with every sip.
Aperture Cellars, 12291 Old Redwood Hwy., Healdsburg, 707.200.7891. aperture-cellars.com.
