Nestled on Howell Mountain in Napa Valley, Red Thread Wines is a boutique, family-owned winery founded by Brian and Gretchen Brakesman. Inspired by the ancient legend of the invisible red thread that connects those destined to meet, our wines are crafted to bring people together—through shared stories, unforgettable moments, and a deep connection to place.
We keep things small on purpose—focusing on high-quality, small-lot wines that reflect both the rugged beauty of the mountain and the warmth of our hospitality. Each bottle is thoughtfully made, sourced from our vineyard and select sites across Napa, Sonoma, and Lake County.
At Red Thread, it’s not about trends or ego. It’s about crafting wines that are delicious, age-worthy, and meant to be shared around a table—with friends, family, or someone you just met.

Meet the Makers

Brian Brakesman –

Winemaker & Co-Founder
Born and raised in Napa Valley, Brian grew up working his family’s Summit Lake Vineyards—learning vineyard care, tractor mechanics, and the rhythms of farming from the ground up. After earning his degree in Ag Engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and working under winemaking legends, Brian brings both technical knowledge and instinct to the cellar. His hands-on approach ensures every vintage tells a true story of time and place.

Gretchen Brakesman – Sales, Marketing & Co-Founder

Gretchen’s journey to wine started in San Francisco, where she had a successful career in sales before meeting Brian at a concert in 2001. That fateful night led to a marriage, a move to the mountains, and a new chapter in wine. With experience in compliance, marketing, and wine business consulting, Gretchen is the engine behind the brand—connecting with customers, sharing the story, and building a community around Red Thread.

More Than a Winery

Red Thread is our home, our family, and our life’s work. We invite you to visit, taste with us, and experience wine in a more personal way—on a hillside patio, in our farmhouse kitchen, or at one of our relaxed vineyard dinners. Whether you join the club or stop by for a glass, you’re part of the thread now.

Come pull up a chair—we saved you a spot.