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Joseph Phelps Insignia with David Pearson

In our latest podcast, host and Master Sommelier Chris Tanghe speaks with David Pearson of Joseph Phelps Vineyards. They discuss the history of the winery, its role in Napa Valley's development, and the origins and future of the brand's flagship wine, Insignia.

David is the executive chairman of Joseph Phelps Vineyards. Prior to this role, he served as the CEO of Opus One for 16 years. He has also held leadership roles at Robert Mondavi and Meadowood Estate. David has a BS in fermentation science and enology from UC Davis and an MBA in international business from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

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Learn more about Joseph Phelps Vineyards.

Read our Joseph Phelps Producer Profile.


In this episode:

David Pearson

David Pearson has been the executive chairman of Joseph Phelps Vineyards since 2023. He was the CEO of Opus One from 2024 through 2020 and worked at Robert Mondavi from 1996 through 2003. Earlier in his career, he was a senior sensory scientist at Heublein, Inc. He has served on the board of directors of Napa Valley Vintners and as a trustee of the UC Davis Foundation. He is currently a board member at Festival Napa Valley.

David has a BS in fermentation science and enology from UC Davis and an MBA in international business from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Follow David on LinkedIn.