Wine Making Team
Rob Hunter - Winemaker
Rob Hunter’s professional winemaking career began at Groth Vineyards & Winery, followed by a position as winemaker at Robert Keenan Winery, Lyeth, Markham Vineyards, Sterling Vineyards and Bennett Lane Winery.
Rob’s quest for perfection extends into his personal life as well, where he has developed a great love for the intricacies of finished carpentry and music, two distinct arts he credits with aiding his pursuits as a winemaker. Says Rob, “My goal is to create the greatest Cabernet Sauvignon in the world. Nothing less.”
Bennett Salts - Enologist
Originally from San Antonio Texas, my partner and I found our home in Northern California in 2007 and I couldn't be happier. I studied Chemistry at Mendocino College for three years but soon fell in love with wine and the social lifestyle that comes with such a hobby. After changing my major to Oenology and transferring to Santa Rosa Junior College, I was offered a place on the Bennett Lane team in July of 2014. I have a passion for wine education and wine making and Bennett Lane Winery is the perfect platform, my second position as cellar staff started with the 2015 harvest. I love the laid back feel of our spot in Calistoga and I feel pride for the excellent wines that our team produces.
Francisco Avina - Cellar Master
Francisco has been with Bennett Lane Winery for over 12 years and prides himself on making sure we have one of the cleanest and most efficient cellars in the Napa Valley.