In 2024, Firetree Family Vineyards was named one of the most influential Latino-owned wineries in the United States—a remarkable achievement considering proprietors Rafael Ricardo Jiménez-Dan and his wife, Dayva Jimenez, have only recently taken the helm of this historic Carneros property.

For Jiménez-Dan, a Venezuelan-born entrepreneur with deep agricultural roots, Firetree is both personal and professional. Raised in one of Venezuela’s most dynamic farming regions, he earned his degree as an Agricultural Technician with a specialization in phytotechnology before launching a multifaceted career spanning hospitality, technology, and real estate. But the land has always called him back.

Alongside Vineyard Manager Ben Leachman and winemaker Julien Fayard, the family is implementing organic and regenerative farming practices certified by Napa Green and Fish Friendly Farming. Their approach is hands-on and holistic: a permanent herd of goats and Babydoll sheep graze between the vines, managing cover crops naturally; participation in the California Department of Food & Agriculture’s Healthy Soils Program enriches the vineyard’s foundation; and a partnership with the Napa County Resource Conservation District is introducing an experimental California native pollinator cover crop.

“Rafael is so passionate about the vineyard,” says Jimenez. “He cares for the vines personally, working closely with Ben and Julien, and giving his full attention to the quality of every vine. You can taste that dedication in our wines.”

The result is a beautiful Chardonnay that reflects the site’s rare combination of cool-climate freshness and sunlit concentration—a Burgundian-style wine that is pure Carneros.

The vineyard’s history stretches back to 1838, when the land was part of the Napa Rancho granted to Salvador Vallejo by the Mexican government. Over the decades, it passed from pioneer families to orchardists, livestock grazers, and Italian immigrants, each leaving their imprint. In the late 1970s, Michael and Helen O’Hara acquired the largely undeveloped property, planting Chardonnay in 1988. That same year, Silverado Vineyards recognized its potential and refined the plantings, adding new Chardonnay clones—grapes that became a prized component of Silverado’s Napa Valley Chardonnay.

Photo of Rafael Ricardo Jiménez-Dan and his wife, Dayva Jimenez by Laura Gregory, Gregory Made Photography

Now, under Jiménez-Dan and Jimenez’s stewardship, Firetree’s story has taken a decisive turn. Their focus on soil health, biodiversity, and community positions the vineyard not only as a producer of exceptional wine but also as a model for responsible farming in Napa Valley. It’s a philosophy that, when blended with their joy of sharing, shapes every decision they make in the vineyard and cellar.

“For me, winemaking is about more than creating a product—it’s about creating moments,” says Jiménez-Dan. “From the field to the table, we care for the vines with love and passion, knowing that each bottle will become part of someone’s gathering, a celebration, a memory. The idea that our wine might be on a table somewhere, surrounded by friends and family, bringing joy and connection—that’s an amazing feeling.”

For more information: www.firetreevineyards.com

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// Los Carneros