JCB LIVE: Napa terroir, Stu Smith of Smith-Madrone

Stu Smith is a fearless pioneer, a guardian of Napa Valley’s mountain terroir, and a vintner with an unshakable passion for authenticity! As the visionary behind Smith-Madrone Winery, he has spent over 50 years crafting wines that embody the wild beauty and rugged spirit of Spring Mountain.

At just 22 years old, Stu and his brother Charles set out on a bold adventure—reclaiming a historic, untamed vineyard site, planting vines by hand, and embracing dry farming techniques that allow the land to speak in every bottle. Their approach? Uncompromising, unapologetic, and utterly dedicated to quality!

The result? Wines of power, elegance, and a purity that can only come from mountain-grown fruit—from iconic Cabernet Sauvignon to one of the finest Rieslings in the world. But Stu is more than a winemaker; he is a protector of Napa’s heritage, a champion of sustainability, and a leader who has shaped the future of Spring Mountain and beyond.

A true maverick, craftsman, and innovator, Stu Smith doesn’t just make wine—he creates a legacy in every glass, one that tells the story of passion, perseverance, and place.