MILL VALLEY, CA—Auberge Resorts and an investor group that includes AJ Capital Partners acquired Napa Valley luxury resort, Calistoga Ranch.
Auberge helped develop Calistoga Ranch and has operated the resort since its opening in 2004. AJ Capital Partners develops, owns and operates resorts and urban hotels around the world such as Malliouhana, an Auberge Resort in Anguilla, which is set to reopen in the spring following an extensive renovation; they are the former owner of the Isle De France Hotel located on St. Barth’s.
“Auberge Resorts has been involved with Calistoga Ranch since it was on the drawing table and we have been proud to see it acclaimed as one of the best resorts in the world,” stated Mark Harmon, CEO of Auberge Resorts. “We are so pleased to add Calistoga Ranch to our portfolio and we’re excited to have such esteemed partners in this venture. They share our commitment to the Napa Valley and to creating an exceptional luxury resort experience in this very special destination.”
Also joining the venture are:William P. Foley II, founder of Foley Family Wines, a collection of leading wineries that includes Foley Estate Vineyards and Winery, Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards and Winery, Merus, Firestone Vineyard and Sebastiani Vineyards and Winery. Foley also is chairman of the board of directors for Fidelity National, Inc. and founder of Foley Food & Wine Society, a private club dedicated to all things related to food, wine and travel; Michael Uytengsu, a founding partner in Tusk Estates, boutique producers of Cabernet Sauvignon, and a former investment banker and entrepreneur behind brands such as Sunshine Biscuits, Keebler Foods, HK Anderson and Somersault Snacks.
“Calistoga Ranch is one of the most stunning resorts in the world. Unruffled luxury, exclusivity and a connection to nature and the valley culture are part of what draws people to the ranch,” stated Jeff Broaden of AJ Capital Partners. “We are excited to be working with such wonderful partners and are thrilled and honored to become stewards of such an extraordinary place.”
Set in a secluded 157-acre canyon in upper Napa Valley, the five-star Calistoga Ranch offers 50 contemporary guest lodges that feature an indoor-outdoor lifestyle with forest views, outdoor living rooms and private outdoor shower gardens.