We’re thrilled to introduce the newest addition to the Sequoia Grove Winery family, Executive Chef Spencer Conaty! With a passion for farm-to-table cuisine and an impressive culinary background, Chef Conaty brings a fresh perspective to our esteemed winery, enhancing our wine and food pairing experiences.
Chef Spencer Conaty is renowned for his innovative approach to cuisine, focusing on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. A Graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School in Sacramento, Chef Spencer’s love for cooking started at a young age. Growing up in Placerville, CA, Chef Spencer was raised by his father who shared with him a love for food. After completing culinary school, Spencer was offered the opportunity to work under the chef he always idolized as a kid watching Iron Chef on TV, Chef Morimoto. After 4 years at Morimoto, Chef Spencer continued to refine and enhance his skills at the Michelin-starred Atelier Crenn in San Francisco, where he honed his skills under the tutelage of Chef Dominique Crenn. His time at Atelier Crenn instilled in him a deep appreciation for the artistry of food and a dedication to pushing the boundaries of culinary expression. Continuing to refine his craft, Chef Spencer joined the team at the three Michelin-starred Saison, where he further solidified his reputation for culinary innovation. At Saison, he embraced a philosophy of using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create refined and soulful dishes.
After gaining invaluable experience in the Bay Area, Chef Spencer felt a strong pull back to the Napa Valley. He spent the last several years honing his wine and food expertise as Chef for Silver Oak and Brian Arden wineries. When Chef Spencer is not busy crafting enticing and artful dishes in the kitchen, Spencer enjoys tending his culinary garden and cherishing moments with his family, including his wife and young son, 3 dogs, and 6 goats.
Chef Spencer’s diverse experience with Michelin-starred cuisine, curated wine and food pairings, and event catering has shaped his unique approach to culinary innovation. His aim is to continue elevating the wine experiences at Sequoia Grove Winery, using his expertise to create pairings that are not only delicious but also enhance the unique terroir of the Napa Valley.
Q: What inspired you to become a Chef?
A: My high school culinary program and my father helped inspire me as a Chef.
Q: What is your favorite dish to cook?
A: At home, I love to make shepherd’s pie, but at work, I don’t have a favorite because I love constant change and trying out new recipes and techniques.
Q: How do you come up with new recipes?
A: Inspiration can strike at any moment – I think my mentors and nature really inspire me.
Q: What’s your go-to wine pairing?
A: I’m a big fan of pairing my Black Garlic Ramen with Cabernet – not something you would think to pair together, but it works amazingly well!
Q: What’s one kitchen gadget you can’t live without?
A: My trusty chef’s knife. It’s the workhorse of my kitchen and essential for everything. Fun fact – I have my very first knife I got when I was 17, now retired, tattooed on my forearm.
Q: What’s a fun fact about you that people might not know?
A: I’m a huge comic book nerd.
Q: If you could cook for anyone, who would it be?
A: Without a doubt, Alton Brown. I grew up watching his show on the Food Network. It’s part of my upbringing and is why I followed this career path.
Q: What are you most excited about in your new role at Sequoia Grove Winery?
A: Honestly, everything about Sequoia Grove excites me. I am so excited to be cooking for everyone!
A Commitment to Local and Sustainable
At Sequoia Grove Winery, we pride ourselves on our commitment to sustainability and supporting local farmers. Chef Spencer shares this commitment, sourcing the freshest ingredients from Napa Valley’s bountiful farms, including his very own garden, and artisanal producers. His menus reflect the region’s rich agricultural heritage, offering guests an authentic taste of Napa Valley.
Exceptional Wine and Food Pairings
One of Chef Spencer’s abilities is creating exquisite wine and food pairings that highlight the unique characteristics of Sequoia Grove wines. His keen palate and creative flair result in dishes that will perfectly complement our award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and other varieties.
Discover the culinary brilliance of Chef Spencer Conaty at Sequoia Grove Winery. Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine and exquisite wine pairings in the heart of Napa Valley. Visit us in Rutherford for an unforgettable gourmet experience
Sequoia Grove Winery is located in the picturesque Rutherford AVA, known for its premium vineyards and breathtaking landscapes. Our winery is just a short drive from downtown Napa, making it a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Plan your visit today and savor the best of Napa Valley with Chef Spencer Conaty at Sequoia Grove Winery.