V. Sattui Winery is proud to introduce James Ayers as our new Cheesemonger, bringing his unparalleled expertise to our soon-to-open Mercato del Gusto. With a career spanning fine cheese, gourmet foods, and world-class wine pairings, James is set to create an epicurean adventure that perfectly complements our diverse wine portfolio.

From his 18 years at Sunshine Foods in St. Helena to curating selections at Atelier in Yountville and Sonoma Cheese Factory, James has built a reputation as a leading authority on regional and artisanal cheeses. But for James, cheese is more than a passion—it’s an obsession. He lives and breathes the world of cheese, traveling extensively to deepen his knowledge—attending Slow Food’s renowned cheese festival in Italy, foraging mushrooms in Parma, and sourcing the finest charcuterie in Spain—all in pursuit of the next perfect bite.

With his engaging, down-to-earth personality, James makes learning about cheese exciting and accessible. Whether he’s hand-cutting wedges for a guest, swapping stories about his latest European food adventure, or crafting a stunning charcuterie board, his enthusiasm is contagious. At V. Sattui, James will oversee a cheese selection of 200-300 varieties, lead pairing workshops and tastings, and ensure that every guest experience is interactive, educational, and delicious. His goal? To make V. Sattui’s Mercato the best in Napa Valley—a must-visit destination for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Look for James in our Mercato, where he’ll be sharing his passion, flavor, and maybe even convincing you to try a cheese you never knew you’d love.