Chef James Lehman’s interest in the culinary arts developed at an early age, thanks to sharing many moments in the kitchen alongside his mother Toni. His epicurious obsession would eventually lead to work at Bouchon in Yountville, California; the original French bistro developed by Chef Thomas Keller.
To further his education, Chef James attended the famed Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. Post graduation, he assumed the role of Executive Sous Chef at New World Home Cooking near Woodstock, New York. Under the supervision of Chef Ric Orlando, he learned to cook "real food" with big flavors.
Upon returning to his home state of California, Chef James assumed the role of Executive Chef at Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys. During his time at Ironstone Vineyards, Chef James taught cooking classes, prepared and presented winemaker dinners, organized special events, and left a lasting mark on the Kautz family, his coworkers, and the community.
When not preparing meals in the #ChefObsessed kitchen, Chef James works in the healthcare industry, managing the food service for patients and hospital visitors alike.