German-born Manfred Esser began his career as a salesman for a large European winery; in 1974, he came to the United States. Esser joined Napa Valley's Cuvaison Winery as President in 1986 and, in a little over 10 years, made it one of the most successful estates in the industry. His unique approach to converting customers into "company ambassadors" has set an industry standard for client relations. Having achieved success at Cuvaison, Esser sold his partnership in 1998, fueled by the desire to begin a project of his own.
Years of preparation went into the development of the Esser Vineyards brand. Working closely with Manfred Esser is renowned consulting winemaker Paul Moser, whose style received praise for eight consecutive years from Robert Parker as a "breath of fresh air" in the California wine market.