In the early 80’s we had wine made on a custom basis for our since abandoned “Palisades” label.  After making such wines at other facilities, we suspended production until we had true control of both the winegrowing and wine crafting.  Now, over 20 years later, we are proud to offer wines grown by the Frediani Family, and personally hand crafted and bottled in our own cellar.  Over the next several years, we intend to increase our Jean Louis Vermeil Cabernet Sauvignon, OTE Zinfandel, Syrah, Pickett Road, and perhaps an occasional “whim” wine (maybe a barrel or two of Sauvignon Blanc, Petite Sirah…?!)  to our maximum permitted capacity.   

 As co-proprietor and winemaker, Paul Smith brings his CSU-Fresno enology-viticulture education and nearly 30 vintage experience to his OnThEdge Winery.  In addition to importing advanced European processing technology into North America, Paul has held technical and management positions with companies including Joseph Phelps Vineyards, Robert Mondavi Corporation, and Opus One Winery.  During his 17 years with the Robert Mondavi Corporation, Paul was responsible for the technical development, facility design, and project management of several internationally recognized, state-of-the-art facilities.  Notable completed projects include the Opus One Winery, Byron Winery, and  the La Arboleda winery in Chile.  While developing  the designs for the Opus One Winery, he worked the excellent 1990 harvest at Chateau Mouton Rothschild. Since leaving Robert Mondavi Corporation, Paul maintains consulting relationships with winery clients seeking proven experience in advanced winery process design, winemaking technology application, and project management. 

MarySue Frediani (aka Mrs. Paul Smith) literally grew up in the wine business.  Her family has farmed winegrapes in the Calistoga area for 3 generations.  She will occasionally reflect back to the days she would earn a penny apiece for each cutworm she collected from the vineyard!  When she is not at her “day” job managing Hurd Beeswax Candles of the Napa Valley, she lends her many talents and endless energy as required for production, marketing, and sales efforts.   

Nathan Smith is pursuing an education and career in journalism, while he hones his pressing, hose pulling, barrel handling, and general “cellar rat” skills.