The Hess Collection

Hess Persson Estates is a family-owned luxury winery and vineyard estate with roots dating back to 1978, when founder Donald Hess established The Hess Collection Winery on the historic slopes of Mount Veeder in Napa Valley, California. Operating on the site of one of the region's oldest wineries, the estate has grown into a celebrated producer of complex, elegant wines sourced from high-elevation estate vineyards on Mount Veeder as well as vineyards spanning the far reaches of Napa Valley. The company markets its wines under several distinct brands, including The Hess Collection, Lion Tamer, and Panthera, each reflecting a particular expression of the terroir and winemaking philosophy cultivated over more than four decades. The winemaking team, led by senior winemaker Stephanie Pope, focuses on crafting vibrant, balanced luxury wines that express a strong sense of place. The volcanic soils and unique microclimates of Mount Veeder's rugged, high-elevation terrain are central to the estate's identity, yielding wines with rich, layered complexity that have earned consistent critical acclaim. The next generation of the Hess family continues Donald Hess' founding legacy, maintaining his pioneering commitment to elevation viticulture and sustainable land stewardship. The estate vineyards and winery are certified sustainable through the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance, reflecting a long-standing operational philosophy of nurturing the land. In addition to wine production, Hess Persson Estates operates a visitor-facing hospitality program at its Napa Valley estate, offering a range of tasting experiences, access to the Hess Collection Art Museum, and mountainside excursions. A wine club membership program provides access to rare bottlings, preferred pricing, exclusive events, and complimentary tastings, serving a direct-to-consumer channel alongside traditional retail distribution.