Heidi Barrett

Heidi Peterson Barrett is one of the most influential and celebrated winemakers in California, widely recognized for her pivotal role in shaping the cult wine movement of Napa Valley. Born in Berkeley and raised in the Napa Valley, Barrett is the daughter of Dr. Richard Peterson, a respected winemaker, and Diane Peterson, an artist and musician. This unique combination of science and art formed the foundation of her winemaking philosophy. She began working in vineyards as a teenager and went on to earn her degree in Fermentation Science from UC Davis, one of the few women in her graduating class. At just 25 years old, Barrett became the head winemaker at Buehler Vineyards, where her talent quickly drew critical acclaim. She launched her consulting career in 1988 and began working with Screaming Eagle, where she produced the now-legendary 1992 Cabernet Sauvignon, another 100-point wine that cemented her place in wine history. A six-liter bottle of that vintage famously sold at auction for $500,000. Over the course of her career, Barrett has crafted wines for some of Napa Valley’s most prestigious labels, including Paradigm, Grace Family, Amuse Bouche, Kenzo Estate, Lamborn Family, and Fantesca. She is also the founder and winemaker of La Sirena, her personal label known for expressive, small-lot wines that reflect her signature style: elegance, balance, and approachability. In addition to La Sirena, she collaborates with her husband, Bo Barrett of Chateau Montelena, on the Barrett & Barrett label. With a career spanning over four decades, Heidi Barrett remains a visionary and enduring force in the world of wine. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ehlersestate.substack.com