Vintners Resort announces the appointment of Brian Sommer as General Manager. He will continue to guide the vision of owner Rhonda Carano, and her late husband, Don, for the 92-acre Italian-inspired property that is home to a luxury hotel, an event center, Vi La Vita Spa, and three restaurants, including the acclaimed John Ash & Co.
“Brian brings the expertise, skillset and ambition we need to maintain the standard of excellence we’ve established at Vintners Resort,” said Rhonda Carano. “He understands high levels of service and understands guests’ needs. He will be an integral part of our team and a big part of this property’s bright future.”
Sommer brings 22 years of hospitality experience in addition to being a graduate with honors from The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. Most recently, he helped Chef Dustin Valette and Craig Ramsey launch The Matheson, a three story, 231 seat restaurant and roof top bar, located on the plaza in downtown Healdsburg. Prior to opening The Matheson, Sommer was the longest tenured General Manager at Hotel Les Mars in Healdsburg where he earned the highest Forbes rating for lodging in Sonoma County. He’s also worked with the Four Seasons in New York, Dallas, Palm Beach, and the West Indies.
Sommer has served as chair of the Healdsburg Tourism Improvement District (HTID) and was selected as a recipient of The Spirit of Sonoma Award for his dedicated support of the local lodging industry and his commitment to economic development in his community. He currently serves on the board of directors for Reach for Home, a non-profit organization whose mission is to end homelessness in Sonoma County.
“Vintners Resort and John Ash & Co. have been home to many of the great chefs and hospitality leaders in Sonoma County,” said Sommer. “I hope to further it’s storied history by combining the warmth of Sonoma County’s down to earth personality with a detailed level of service that makes each guest feel valued and cherished.”
