Opus One names new CEO

Napa winery Opus One has announced that Christopher Lynch has taken over from David Pearson as the estate’s new CEO.

Lynch succeeded Pearson with immediate effect on 22 September. An industry veteran of more than 30 years, he has previously worked for E&J Gallo, LVMH’s Chandon Estates, Pernod Ricard, Beam Wine Estates and the Terlato Wine Group gaining extensive experience in marketing, commercial operations, strategic planning, business development and general management.

Lynch commented: “I first developed a passion for wine while living and playing professional basketball in France in the early stages of my career.

“From its very inception, I’ve looked up to Opus One as the pinnacle of luxury wine.  I’m honored to be selected as the next CEO for this iconic wine brand and look forward to working with the Opus One Winery team to continue building on the legacy and vision of co-founders Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi.”

Opus One was created in 1979 as a joint project between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi. Constellation Brands acquired Robert Mondavi Winery in 2004 and entered the 50/50 partnership with Baron Philippe de Rothschild S.A.

Philippe Sereys de Rothschild, chairman and CEO of Baron Philippe de Rothschild S.A and a board member of Opus One, added: “I sincerely believe that truly great wines are one of the last privileges of our time. From the outset, Opus One has been built on the values that have forged the reputation and success of top wines around the world, namely scarcity, elegance, rigour, and excellence.

“I am entirely confident that Chris Lynch, with his experience, his know-how and his vast knowledge of the fine wine world, will uphold those values and continue to drive Opus One’s success in the years to come.”