People News

News and job changes from around the drinks business. Submit yours at editor@sevenfifty.com.

Monday,
February 10, 2025

Fred Rosen, the CEO of Sam’s Wines & Spirits, has died

Fred Rosen, the CEO of Chicago-based Sam’s Wines & Spirits, has died. Rosen’s work revolutionized the retail segment of the beverage industry. He is known for pioneering the wine and spirits “superstore” concept, which aims to make fine wine and spirits available to everyone. Under Rosen’s leadership, Sam’s Wines & Spirits evolved into an award-winning Chicago institution. Rosen was also recognized by Forbes Magazine for his accomplishments in ecommerce. (Press release)

DISCUS appoints new personnel to the 2025-2026 Craft Advisory Council

The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) has announced new appointments to their 2025-2026 Craft Advisory Council. In total, there are 25 members elected to the council, which represents small craft distillers across the U.S. The council’s new appointments include Alex Castle of Augusta Distillery, who will serve as chair, and Pete Barger of Southern Distilling Company, who will serve as vice chair. (Press release)

Katy Smith Perry, the cofounder of Tildio Winery, has died

Katy Smith Perry, the cofounder and winemaker for Tildio Winery, has passed away at 66. Born in Seattle, Washington, Perry’s career in the wine industry started at a research lab at Robert Mondavi Winery. From there, Perry worked at Stags Leap Wine Cellars, Geyser Peak Winery, and Chateau Ste Michelle, among others. In the early 2000s, Perry began cultivating Tildio’s vineyard alongside her husband, Milum Davis Perry. The couple officially opened Tildio’s tasting room in 2005. Perry was instrumental in getting Lake Chelan approved as a federal appellation, which now hosts over 40 wineries. (Press release)

Heaven Hill Brands appoints Adam Edwards as East Coast ambassador

Adam Edwards has been named the new East Coast ambassador for Heaven Hill Brands. Edwards has over 20 years of experience in the spirits industry with a focus on whiskey, most recently serving as the brand ambassador for Heaven’s Door. His new position will entail in-depth brand education for both trade and consumer audiences. (Press release)

Mike Dee appointed president of Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits

Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits has appointed Mike Dee as its new president. Dee has held multiple leadership roles in the world of professional sports, representing brands such as the San Diego Padres, the Boston Red Sox, and the Miami Dolphins. Dee’s term will begin in April. (Press release)

Laura DePasquale, MS, named advisory board chair of the Women’s Leadership Council of WSWA

Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) has appointed Laura DePasquale, MS, as the advisory board chair of its Women’s Leadership Council (WLC). DePasquale is the senior vice president of sales and commercial operations, artisanal wine, for Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. DePasquale has been an active member of WLC for three years. Also appointed were Maggie Maxwell as vice chair and Jen Bowser as engagement chair. (Press release)

Far Niente announces CEO Steve Spadarotto’s retirement; Carol Reber named interim CEO

Far Niente Wine Estates has announced the retirement of CEO Steve Spadarotto. Carol Reber has been named the interim CEO. Spadarotto originally joined Far Niente as CEO in 2018. During his tenure, he oversaw the launch of Post & Beam in 2020, and the opening of the new Bella Union Winery in 2024. Reber has 25 years of experience in the luxury wine industry, and has served on the Far Niente board of directors for the past two years. (Press release)

Joseph Goode appointed president of Barrel Stock Trading Co.

Barrel Stock Trading Co., a spirits investment firm based in Nashville, Tennessee, has announced Joseph Goode as its new president. Goode has nearly two decades of experience, most recently serving as the senior vice president and beverage industry manager of Truist Financial, where he initiated the company’s barrel financing program. He also oversaw the acquisition of Blue Run Spirits by Molson Coors and the acquisition of Penelope Bourbon by MGP. (Press release)

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation names Charlotte Voisey as executive director

The Tales of the Cocktail Foundation has named Charlotte Voisey as its new executive director. Voisey has nearly 20 years of experience in the drinks industry, and has been recognized for her work by the Spirited Awards, earning the award for “Best American Brand Ambassador” in 2010. Voisey also served as the overall chair for the Spirited Awards from 2016 to 2024. In her new position, Voisey will be reporting to CEO Eileen Wayner and the board of directors. (Press release)

Trevor Durling named vice president of winemaking and viticulture at Darioush

Napa Valley’s Darioush has named Trevor Durling as the new vice president of winemaking and viticulture. Prior to joining Darioush, Durling served as the chief winemaker at Beaulieu Vineyard, where he received accolades for his work on Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Durling has also held leadership roles with Provenance Vineyards and Hewitt Vineyard. (Press release)

Pinhook Bourbon appoints John Scarborough as CEO

Pinhook Bourbon has announced John Scarborough as the company’s new CEO. This news follows Scarborough’s success at raising $10.5 million for the company’s expansion. Scarborough has extensive experience in the spirits industry, including leadership roles at Still Austin Whiskey, Ranch Rider Spirits, and Deep Eddy Vodka. Scarborough will succeed Alice Peterson. (Press release)

Emily Pennington named COO of American Craft Spirits Association

The American Craft Spirits Association has appointed Emily Pennington as the chief operating officer, a newly created position within the organization. Pennington has nearly 15 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry, including at the publication Wine & Spirits Daily and the education platform Park Street University. In her new role, Pennington will work closely with CEO Margie AS Lehrman while addressing concerns within the craft distilling industry. (Press release)

Rhone Rangers appoints new executive team

The Rhone Rangers, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting American wines made from Rhone varieties, has announced new executive officers for 2025. The appointments include president Larry Schaffer of Tercero Wines; vice president Kristin Bryden of Zaca Mesa; secretary Stacy Vogel of Plata Wine Partners; treasurer Sandy Throop of Derby Wine Estates; and past president Craig Camp of Troon Vineyard. The leadership team will work with the organization’s executive director, Kim Murphy-Rodrigues.

MGX Beverage Group announces two new executive appointments

MGX Beverage Group, a supply chain and logistics company that specializes in beverage alcohol, is expanding its executive team with two new appointments. Randy Leeder is joining the team as chief financial officer, and Rob Bradshaw has been named chief commercial officer. Leeder has over two decades of experience in financial management and previously served as MGX’s fractional CFO. Bradshaw also has decades of industry experience, most recently serving as the president and CEO of Cape Classics, an import company specializing in South African wine. (Press release)

Butterfly names Robert Hanson as CEO of The Duckhorn Portfolio

Butterfly, which recently acquired Duckhorn, has appointed Robert Hanson as the CEO of The Duckhorn Portfolio. Hanson most recently served as the head of Constellation Brands’ global wine and spirits portfolio. In his new role, Hanson will oversee Duckhorn’s portfolio of 11 premium wine brands. (Press release)

Savannah Mills named winemaker for Brick House Wines

Brick House Wines, one of the first Oregon wineries to be organic and biodynamic certified, has promoted Savannah Mills to winemaker. Mills has worked with founding winemaker Doug Tunnell since 2013. Before joining Brick House, Mills also worked harvests in New Zealand, Burgundy, and at other Oregon wineries. In her new role, Mills will be responsible for all aspects of winemaking from the company’s 30-acre estate. (Press release)

James Pennefather named CEO of Chapel Down

Former Diageo executive James Pennefather has been appointed as the new CEO of Chapel Down. Most recently, Pennefather served as the CEO of The Lakes Distillery Company. Pennefather succeeds Andrew Carter, who left the company in September. His term begins in February of 2025. (Press release)

Johnson Brothers appoints Edward Nieves as general manager for Nevada

Johnson Brothers has appointed Edward Nieves as the general manager of Johnson Brothers of Nevada. Nieves most recently worked as the general manager for Nevada Beverage Company. He has also served in various leadership positions for Anheuser-Busch, and as the assistant director of beverage for Wynn Las Vegas. (Press release)

Napa Valley Vintners elects new leadership to board of directors

Napa Valley Vintners has announced several new appointments to its board of directors for 2025. Jaime Araujo, the owner of Trois Noix and the co-owner of Accendo Cellars, has been elected board chair; Schatzi Throckmorton, the owner and general manager of Relic Wine Cellars, has been elected vice chair; and Ed Matovcik, the vice president of public affairs at Robert Mondavi Winery, has been elected as secretary and treasurer. (Press release)

Bart Watson appointed president and CEO of the Brewers Association

The Brewers Association has announced the appointment of Bart Watson as their new president and CEO. Watson is the current vice president of strategy and membership, as well as the former chief economist. Watson succeeds Bob Pease who is retiring on January 3. (Press release)

St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery appoints Allison Lee as regional sales manager

St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery has announced the appointment of Allison Lee as a regional sales manager for the northeast. Lee has 20 years of experience in the wine industry, having worked for brands such as MS Walker New York and Monsieur Touton. Lee succeeds Tod Umbach, and will oversee St. Supéry Estate sales in the northeast region. (Press release)

Andy Glaser named CEO of Paulaner USA

Andy Glaser has been named the new CEO of Paulaner USA. Glaser will be taking over for Steven Hauser who recently announced his retirement after 10 years with the company. Glaser previously held leadership roles with Hennessy, Bass Ale, and Champagne Henriot, and also worked as the vice president of marketing at Heineken USA while Paulaner was in its portfolio. (Press release)

Jack and Maggie Coin acquire ownership of Grand Cru Custom Crush

Jack and Maggie Coin, the founders of Copper Six Winery, have recently acquired ownership of Grand Cru Custom Crush, a winery collective founded in 2017 and based in Windsor, California. The new owners have been connected to the collective since 2022 when they began crushing their wines at the facility. “We hope to continue to support each member with their vision and growth in the future,” says the Coins. (Press release)

Celebrated California winemaker Kris Curran has died

Kris Curran, a Santa Barbara County winemaker renowned for her impact as a female trailblazer and Pinot Noir expert, has passed away. Her experience spans brands such as Cambria, Koehler, Foley, and Sea Smoke, where she was the founding winemaker. Curran founded D’Alfonso-Curran Wines in 2010 with Bruno D’Alfonso. (Press release)

Johnson Brothers appoints new leadership in Minnesota

Johnson Brothers has announced leadership changes at their Minnesota branch. John Dempsey has been named general manager and Nathan Johnson has been promoted to the vice president of sales. Dempsey has been with Johnson Brothers for almost 30 years, having served as general manager for other Johnson Brothers locations. Johnson has been with the company since 2015 and will report to Dempsey in his new role. (Press release)

Debra Eagle retires from Alma Rosa Winery

Debra Eagle, the general manager of Alma Rosa Winery, has announced her retirement following over 30 years of work in the wine industry. Eagle has been with the Santa Barbara County-based winery since 2018. Her career in the wine industry began in 1994, and her experience spans wineries such as Robert Mondavi and Sutter Home. (Press release)

The California Association of Winegrape Growers elects new board directors

The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) has elected two new board directors and reelected the officer team. The new board directors are Johnnie White of Piña Vineyard Management in Napa Valley and Hilary Graves of Booker Vineyard in Paso Robles. White and Graves round out the board following the departure of Kendall Hoxsey-Onysko of Yount Mill Vineyards in Oakville and Marshall Miller of The Thornhill Companies in Santa Barbara. CAWG’s leadership reflects growers from various regions in California. (Press release)

Steven Hauser announces retirement from Paulaner USA

Steven Hauser, the CEO and president of Paulaner USA, has announced plans to retire at the end of the year. Hauser has served as the CEO of the New York-based importer since 2014. His most notable accomplishments include improving the company’s core offerings and securing the rights to Tsingtao. (Press release)

Napa Land Trust elects Tim Persson to its board of trustees

Napa Land Trust has announced Tim Persson’s election to its board of trustees. Persson is the chairman and CEO of Napa Valley-based Hess Persson Estates, and has been with the family business since 2011. Persson’s work with Hess Persson Estates has emphasized biodiversity and sustainable agricultural practices. (Press release)

Groupe Bollinger appoints Gonzague Villedey as new deputy CEO

Groupe Bollinger’s board of directors has announced Gonzague Villedey as the company’s new deputy CEO. Villedey is a sixth-generation member of the Bollinger family. Effective January 1, 2025, Villeday will be taking over from Gérard Bouleau, who is retiring. (Press release)

Brown-Forman announces Marshall B. Farrer as new board of directors chair

Brown-Forman has announced that Campbell P. Brown will be stepping down from his role as chair of the board of directors, and Marshall B. Farrer will be assuming the role. Brown has served on the board of directors for eight years, and has worked for Brown-Forman for over 27 years. Farrer is a fifth-generation descendant of the company’s founder, and also serves as the executive vice president, chief strategic growth officer, and director of Brown-Forman. Brown will continue to serve on the board as a director. (Press release)

United States Bartenders’ Guild’s board of directors elects new personnel

The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) has announced three new major developments to their board of directors. Elizabeth Pirnat has been elected to serve as the board’s wine and spirits education specialist; Geoffrey Thompson has been elected to his first full term; and Joseph Fredrickson has been elected to his second term. Pirnat has been serving the Cleveland, Ohio, chapter of the USBG since 2019. Fredrickson has been involved with the USBG since 2014, having previously served as the leader of the Cleveland chapter. Thompson first joined the USBG in 2015 in the Boston chapter. (Press release)

Threes Brewing announces Josh Penney as head brewer

Brooklyn-based Threes Brewing has appointed Josh Penney as their new head brewer. Penney is known for his work with Highland Park Brewery in Los Angeles, where he secured four gold medals at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival. Penney will be involved in all aspects of beer production, including brand development, reimagining existing recipes, and managing the production team. (Press release)

Gary Farrell Winery appoints Brent McKoy as head winemaker

Gary Farrell Winery, known for their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, has announced Brent McKoy as their new head winemaker. McKoy has been with the Russian River Valley-based winery since 2005. McKoy succeeds Theresa Heredia, and will be overseeing every aspect of the winemaking process. (Press release)

Maker’s Mark names Blake Layfield as master distiller and Beth Buckner as lead blender

Maker’s Mark has announced two new major organization changes, naming Dr. Blake Layfield as the brand’s new master distiller and Beth Buckner as the lead blender. Layfield worked for Diageo before joining Maker’s Mark owner Suntory Global Spirits in 2019, and was the senior director of innovation before being appointed master distiller. Buckner has been with Maker’s Mark for over a decade, joining the company in 2013. She is recognized for her role in developing the Wood Finishing Series. (Press release)

Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic names David Gimpelson as CEO

Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic has announced David Gimpelson as its new CEO. Gimpelson’s career in the drinks industry spans over 20 years. He has previously served as the president of Calirosa Tequila and as the EVP of sales for Casamigos Tequila. In his new role, Gimpelson will be overseeing global operations for Lyre’s, a brand that has become an industry leader in the non-alcoholic spirits category. (Press release)

Dominic Engels appointed CEO of Bronco Wine Co.

Bronco Wine Co. has named Dominic Engels as its chief executive officer. Engels has over 30 years of experience. His previous experience includes serving as the CEO of Stone Brewing and, most recently, as the CEO of Revolution Foods. Engels will be taking over the position for Daniel J. Leonard, who is retiring after 38 years with the company. (Press release)

Pernod Ricard USA appoints Paul Basford as chief commercial officer

Pernod Ricard USA has appointed Paul Basford as its chief commercial officer. Basford most recently worked as the president and managing director for the U.S. at William Grant & Sons, and has over two decades of leadership experience in the global beverage industry. Basford will be overseeing the company’s commercial planning and execution, commercial transformation, and talent development. He will be reporting to Conor McQuaid, the chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard’s North America division. (Press release)

Josep Ferrer, honorary co-chairman and former president of Freixenet, has died

Freixenet recently announced the death of Josep Ferrer, the honorary co-chairman and former president of the company. Ferrer’s parents, Pedro Ferrer Bosch and Dolors Sala Vivé, established the brand in 1914. The second-generation family member worked for the company for over 70 years, becoming the managing director in 1959 and president in 1978; during his leadership he brought Freixenet and Cava as a whole to international recognition. He also oversaw the expansion of the Sant Sadurní d’Anoia company to become the largest Cava production site in the world, the international growth of Freixenet Carta Nevada, and the invention of Cordon Negro, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. (Press release)

Napa Valley Vintners appoints Jason Lede to board of directors

Napa Valley Vintners has elected Jason Lede to its board of directors. Lede is a second-generation vintner and the general manager for Cliff Lede Vineyards in the Stags Leap District. Lede has international experience in the wine industry and began working full-time for the family winery in 2015. The board’s new term begins on January 1, 2025. (Press release)

Prestige Wine Imports announces retirement of CEO Rusty Pape

Prestige Wine Imports has announced the forthcoming retirement of Thomas “Rusty” Pape as the company’s chief executive officer. Pape has been with the New York-based Italian-focused importer for over 30 years and will officially step down on December 31. Moving forward, the company will be co-led by December Semexant, the chief financial officer, and Andrew Meyer, the chief sales officer. (Press release)

Jeff Ogle appointed as sales and marketing manager for Pedernales Cellars

Pedernales Cellars in Texas Hill Country has announced Jeff Ogle as their new sales and marketing manager. Ogle’s career in wine has spanned more than 12 years, including positions at Duchman Family Winery, Bergström, White Rose Estate, and Alexana Estate. Ogle returns to his home state of Texas to attend to manage sales strategy development, customer relationships, budget and forecasting, and market expansion for Pedernales Cellars. (Press release)

Clos Solène names Will Fuhrman as general manager

The Paso Robles winery Clos Solène has named Will Fuhrman as their general manager—a new position created by the winery as they start a new chapter of growth, which includes a major expansion of their cellar. Fuhrman has over 20 years of experience working with global luxury and boutique wine brands and will oversee Clos Solène’s operations, strategy, sales, marketing, and team performance. (Press release)

Alicia Sylvester appointed winemaker for Frank Family Vineyards

Alicia Sylvester has been named winemaker for Frank Family Vineyards in Calistoga, California. In addition to nearly 10 years of experience working for Foley Family Wines, Sylvester has previously worked as the assistant winemaker for Lancaster Estate, head winemaker at Merus Wines, and head winemaker at Banshee Wines; her focuses have included Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Sylvester will be overseeing wine production at Frank Family Vineyards alongside senior winemaker and general manager Todd Graff. (Press release)

Eric Asimov announced as speaker for Pinot Noir New Zealand 2025

Pinot Noir New Zealand, a New Zealand event celebrating the country’s history and future with Pinot Noir, has announced that Eric Asimov, the chief wine critic of The New York Times, has joined their lineup of speakers. In February of 2025 in Ōtautahi Christchurch, Asimov will be speaking on the concept of place and how it relates to New Zealand Pinot Noir. This will be Asimov’s first time visiting New Zealand. (Press release)

Rebekah Boles promoted to tasting room manager for Alma Rosa Winery

Alma Rosa Winery has promoted Rebekah Boles to tasting room manager. Boles has been with the California winery since 2022. Her career started at The Ballard Inn and Restaurant, where she discovered her love for pairing and selling wine. Boles will be overseeing operations at Alma Rosa’s Solvang and Buellton tasting rooms. (Press release)

Wine Women names Rosa Fierro as its first scholarship recipient

Wine Women, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the professional advancement of women in the wine industry, announced Rosa Fierro as the organization’s first scholarship recipient during their inaugural soiree. Fierro is the founder of Rosa Fierro Cellars, a boutique winery based in Livermore, California. Fierro received over $1,000 as part of her scholarship. (Press release)

Regina Lee, MW, appointed to the board of trustees for the Wine and Spirit Education Trust

Regina Lee, MW, has joined the Wine and Spirit Education Trust’s (WSET) board of trustees. Lee, the managing director for Indigo Wines, has been appointed as the Institute of Masters of Wine’s representative, succeeding Jo Locke, MW. Lee has extensive experience across multiple fields within the drinks industry. She passed the MW exam in 2018 after achieving the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines. (Press release)

Graeme MacDonald appointed winemaker for Brand Napa Valley

Fourth generation Napa Valley winegrower, Graeme MacDonald, has recently been named winemaker for Brand Napa Valley. MacDonald has spent a majority of his career at To Kalon Vineyard, working with vines planted by his grandparents and great-grandparents. He also studied viticulture and enology at UC Davis before opening his own eponymous winery, MacDonald. (Press release)

E. Yuri Hermida named EVP, chief growth and strategy officer for Constellation Brands

E. Yuri Hermida has been named as Constellation Brands’ new executive vice president, chief growth and strategy officer. Hermida previously served as the chief growth officer of Sovos Brands before being promoted to president. Hermida succeeds Mallika Monteiro, who will now be focusing on her role as the executive vice president and managing director of the company’s beer portfolio. (Press release)

Vanessa Conlin, MW, appointed director of growth and partnerships for Simone Family Estate

Vanessa Conlin, MW, has been named the director of growth and partnerships for Simone Family Estate. One of fewer than 60 Masters of Wine in the United States, Conlin has experience in retail, sales, marketing, and consulting in the wine industry. Some of her previous roles include global head of wine retail for Sotheby’s, chief wine officer for Wine Access, and director of sales and marketing for various luxury wineries in Napa Valley. Conlin will be working as an advocate for Simone Family Estate and driving growth for the brand. (Press release)

Alejandro López named winemaker and technical director for Bodegas Beronia

Bodegas Beronia in Rioja has appointed Alejandro López as its new winemaker and technical director. With over two decades of experience, López has worked for wineries across the globe, including in the U.S., Chile, Italy, and Spain. López studied viticulture and enology at the University of La Rioja, and studied agricultural engineering at the University of Navarra. López succeeds Matías Calleja, who worked for Bodegas Beronia for 42 years. (Press release)

Yannick Benjamin receives the 2024 Restaurant Award from the New York Wine and Grape Foundation

The New York Wine and Grape Foundation’s Unity Awards has honored Yannick Benjamin for his restaurant’s support of New York wine with the 2024 Restaurant Award. Benjamin, an accomplished New York restaurateur, has earned this award for his East Harlem restaurant, Contento, where the wine menu boasts an entire page dedicated exclusively to East Coast terroirs. (Press release)

Marty DeLaRosa named head of sales for Nine North Wine Co.

Marty DeLaRosa, formerly the director of sales for Trinitas Cellars, has been appointed as the head of sales for Nine North Wine Co., and will be overseeing all marketing and sales efforts in the state of California. DeLaRosa brings over 20 years of industry experience to his new role with Nine North Wine Co., a company whose portfolio focuses on small wine producers. (Press release)

Victor “Buck” Sangiacomo, a founding partner of Sangiacomo Family Vineyards, has died

Victor “Buck” Sangiacomo, a founding partner of Sangiacomo Family Vineyards, has passed away at the age of 92. Sangiacomo’s career started in the late 1960s when his family’s business changed to grape growing. A well-known farmer and ranch manager, Sangiacomo’s work helped shape Sangiacomo Family Vineyards to become one of the largest premium winegrowing businesses in California. (Press release)

Myron Waxman, the former president of Superior Wine & Spirits Inc., has died

Myron Waxman, known for his work as the president of Superior Wine & Spirits Inc. and as the executive director of the Pennsylvania Wine & Spirits Association, has died at the age of 95. Waxman spent over seven decades of his career with Superior Wine & Spirits, starting as a salesman in 1955. Since then, Waxman’s hard work has pushed the company to become one of Pennsylvania’s largest importers and distributors. (Press release)

Dina Opici named chairwoman of Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America

President of Opici Family Distributing, Dina Opici, has been named the first chairwoman of Wine & Spirits Wholesalers America (WSWA). Opici Family Distributing was founded in New Jersey in 1934, and is currently in its fourth generation of family leadership. As chairwoman, Opici will advocate for wholesalers’ interests, promote responsible distribution practices, and advance the organization’s strategic goals. (Press release)

Grey Goose appoints Aleco Azqueta as vice president of global marketing

Aleco Azqueta has been promoted to vice president of global marketing for Grey Goose. Previously a leader of the brand’s North American marketing efforts, Azqueta has over 20 years of experience in the industry, half of which has been with Bacardi, the brand’s parent company. (Press release)

Felipe Stahlschmidt announced as the new head winemaker of Bodega Renacer

Felipe Stahlschmidt has been named head winemaker at Bodega Renacer in Luján de Cuyo, according to the winery’s U.S. importer, Wein-Bauer Imports. A graduate of the National University of Cuyo, Stahlschmidt has previously worked with the winemaking teams at Catena Zapata, Pascual Toso, Los Toneles, and Alto Almanzora, and will carry on Bodega Renacer’s commitment to excellence. (Press release)

Sadr Amir named CEO of Downtown Spirits and Esquin Wine

Marques Warren, the president of Downtown Spirits and Esquin Wine, has announced Sadr Amir’s appointment as the Seattle retailers’ new CEO. Amir’s experience in the beverage and alcohol industry spans more than 20 years, including leadership positions for Rémy Cointreau USA and Moët Hennessy USA, where he worked with brands like Krug Champagne and Belvedere Vodka. (Press release)

Neil Empson, chairman and cofounder of The Empson Companies, has died

Neil Empson, the chairman and cofounder of Empson & Co., Empson USA, and Empson Canada, passed away this week at the age of 85. The New Zealand native became one of the world’s foremost Italian wine exporters when he established his first business in 1972, bringing international recognition to numerous under-the-radar regions and producers. He is survived by his wife and business partner, Maria Gemma Empson; his three children, Tara Empson (the owner and CEO of Empson & Co., Empson USA, and Empson Canada), Tracy Rudich, and Paul Empson; his siblings; and his grandchildren. (press release)

The Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico confirms Giovanni Manetti as president

The Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico has announced that Giovanni Manetti has been selected as its president, making this his third consecutive term. Manetti first joined the Consorzio in 1992 as part of the board of directors. He served as the vice president from 2012 to 2018, when he was selected for his first term as president. Francesco Colpizzi and Sergio Zingarelli were elected as this term’s vice presidents. (Press release)

Adam Rosen is announced as new CEO of WES Brands

Adam Rosen, previously the executive vice president at Casamigos Spirits Company, has been confirmed as WES Brands’s new chief executive officer. Rosen brings over 20 years of experience to the role, having worked with brands such as Pernod Ricard USA and Diageo North America. WES Brands is an independent spirits incubator established in 2022. Their portfolio consists of Aspen Vodka, BSB Flavored Whiskey, Flecha Azul Tequila, and Fraser & Thompson Whiskey. (Press release)

Blasted Church Vineyards names Tanya Martin as director of operations

Tanya Martin, who has been an employee of Blasted Church Vineyards since 2007 and has served as the general manager for over 15 years, has recently been promoted to director of operations at the Okanagan Valley winery. Martin’s combined experience in the industry spans more than 20 years, having also worked for Hillside Estate Winery, See Ya Later Ranch, and Hester Creek Estate Winery. (Press release)

Megan Bravo named director of business development for Alma Rosa Winery

Bravo joins Alma Rosa Winery in Santa Barbara County with 20 years of industry experience. Her previous experience includes roles with Classic Wines, Terravant Wine Company, and most recently, Folded Hills. In her new role, Bravo will oversee all DTC channels, including Alma Rosa’s Solvang tasting room, the Ranch House in Buellton, and Alma Rosa’s website and wine club. (Press release)

Jon Ruel appointed president of Early Mountain Vineyards

Ruel comes to Virginia-based Early Mountain Vineyards with deep expertise in the California wine business. Most recently, he served as the CEO of Trefethen Family Vineyards, a role he worked up to over 20 years with the company. He also served as the president of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers. As president of Early Mountain, Ruel will oversee a new era of innovation and growth for the trailblazing winery. (Press release)

Kelly Rhodes named VP of national sales for Stoller Wine Group

Rhodes joins Stoller Wine Group with 30 years of experience in wholesale. His previous experience includes Young’s Market Company and Columbia National Distributing. Most recently, Rhodes served as an EVP for Republic National Distributing Company. In his new role, Rhodes will use his sales expertise to help Stoller Wine Group reach the next level of success. (Press release)

Kelly E. Carter launches Napa Valley Noir

Award-winning journalist and director of Alpha Omega Winery in Napa Valley, Kelly E. Carter, has launched Napa Valley Noir (NVN), a luxury concierge service specializing in travel experiences within the Napa Valley wine region. Carter’s new business offers various services, including private wine tastings, luxury lodging, and exclusive dining experiences. A portion of NVN’s proceeds will be donated to Wine Unify, where Carter serves as a mentor. (Press release)

Marlene Holmes named Master Distiller of the Year at the Women of Whiskey Awards

Marlene Holmes, known for her work with Milam & Greene Whiskey, has been named Master Distiller of the Year at the second annual Women of Whiskey Awards, hosted during the Bourbon Women SIPosium. Holmes has 34 years of experience working in the whiskey industry, and has played a key role in the successful expansion of Milam & Greene. (Press release)

Kelly Gifford named oak consultant for TN Coopers

TN Coopers has appointed Kelly Gifford as an oak consultant supporting several markets, including Oregon, Washington, and Canada. Gifford joins the team with over eight years of experience in the wine industry, and holds a degree in viticulture and enology from UC Davis. Gifford is also known for her work as the vice president of the Alliance of Women in Washington Wine, a nonprofit organization dedicated to women working in the wine industry. (Press release)

Jean Hoefliger joins Merryvale Vineyards

Jean Hoeflinger has been named consulting winemaker for Merryvale Vineyards, working alongside newly promoted head winemaker, Jeff Crawford. Hoefliger brings over 25 years of experience in winemaking, having worked with over 28 different brands during his career. Crawford steps into his new position as head winemaker after working for Merryvale Vineyards for over two decades. (Press release)

Eden Rift Vineyards appoints Trevor Chlanda as director of winemaking

Trevor Chlanda has been appointed as the director of winemaking for Eden Rift Vineyards, an estate founded in 1849 in California’s Central Coast. Chlanda previously worked as a winemaker for Duck Pond Cellars and Williams Selyem Winery, where he specialized in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Chlanda has also worked as a consulting winemaker for Juslyn, Pilcrow Wines, Grindstone Cellars, and Chateau de Vie. Chlanda is currently a student at the Institute of Masters of Wine. (Press release)

Justin Chearno, a founding partner of The Four Horsemen, has died

Justin Chearno, an original founding partner of The Four Horsemen in New York City, has died at the age of 54. In addition to his role as a partner, Chearno also acted as the Michelin-starred restaurant’s wine director. The Four Horsemen received a James Beard award for Outstanding Wine Program in 2022. Chearno was also a well-known advocate for natural wine, helping to bring it into the mainstream.

Marcelo Aguero appointed CEO at Kobrand Wine & Spirits

Marcelo Aguero has been named the new president and CEO of Kobrand Wine & Spirits. Aguero joins the company with over 30 years of experience in the wine industry, including his most recent position as the executive vice president of marketing and DTC sales at Jackson Family Wines. Retiring from the position is ​​Robert T. DeRoose. (Press release)

Marcelo Aguero appointed CEO at Kobrand Wine & Spirits

Marcelo Aguero has been named the new president and CEO of Kobrand Wine & Spirits. Aguero joins the company with over 30 years of experience in the wine industry, including his most recent position as the executive vice president of marketing and DTC sales at Jackson Family Wines. Retiring from the position is ​​Robert T. DeRoose. (Press release)

Ron Mertz, Christina Rivera-Glenn, and Jenna Kujundzich join O’Neill Vintners & Distillers

O’Neill Vintners & Distillers has welcomed three new hires to their leadership team. Ron Mertz, the new SVP of commercial strategy, spent 12 years with A to Z Winemakers and two years with Washington’s House of Smith prior to joining O’Neill. Christina Rivera-Glenn joins as vice president of luxury operations. Her most recent experience was with Daou Family Estates. Working alongside Rivera-Glenn is Jenna Kujundzich, the new VP of luxury brand strategy, who boasts a decade of experience, including with Daou. (Press release)

Ron Mertz, Christina Rivera-Glenn, and Jenna Kujundzich join O’Neill Vintners & Distillers

O’Neill Vintners & Distillers has welcomed three new hires to their leadership team. Ron Mertz, the new SVP of commercial strategy, spent 12 years with A to Z Winemakers and two years with Washington’s House of Smith prior to joining O’Neill. Christina Rivera-Glenn joins as vice president of luxury operations. Her most recent experience was with Daou Family Estates. Working alongside Rivera-Glenn is Jenna Kujundzich, the new VP of luxury brand strategy, who boasts a decade of experience, including with Daou. (Press release)

Angela Osborne returns to Folded Hills Winery

Founding winemaker of Folded Hills Winery, Angela Osborne, is making her return to the Santa Barbara County estate to lead cellar operations. The New Zealand born winemaker previously worked for Folded Hills from 2015 to 2020. Additionally, co-owner Kim Busch has announced her intentions to resume overall management of winery operations. Folded Hills has released the Angela Osborne x Folded Hills Library Wine collection to celebrate the vintages produced during Osborne’s initial tenure. (Press release)

Angela Osbourne returns to Folded Hills Winery

Founding winemaker of Folded Hills Winery, Angela Osbourne, is making her return to the Santa Barbara County estate to lead cellar operations. The New Zealand born winemaker previously worked for Folded Hills from 2015 until 2020. Additionally, co-owner Kim Busch has announced her intentions to resume overall management of winery operations. Folded Hills has released the Angela Osborne x Folded Hills Library Wine collection to celebrate the vintages produced during Osborne’s initial tenure. (press release)

Opici Wines & Spirits appoints two new senior leaders

Ron Livingston is named director of sales for the southwest, and Marilyn Krieger is named director of public relations and communications. Livingston joins Opici with more than a decade of experience working as a sales executive, most recently serving as the VP of sales for Vintage Wine Estates. Krieger has spent almost 20 years working in public relations with companies such as Gallo and Winebow, and specializes in storytelling, thought leadership, media relations, and more. (Press release)

Opici Wines & Spirits appoints two new senior leaders

Ron Livingston is named director of sales for the southwest, and Marilyn Krieger is named director of public relations and communications. Livingston joins Opici with more than a decade of experience working as a sales executive, most recently serving as the VP of sales for Vintage Wine Estates. Krieger has spent almost 20 years working in public relations with companies such as Gallo and Winebow, and specializes in storytelling, thought leadership, media relations, and more. (Press release)

Sarah Green named winemaker for Neely Wine

Green joins Santa Cruz-based Neely Wine with several years of experience as a winemaker in California. Green’s previous experience includes seven years with Fel Wines and Savoy Vineyards. In her new role, Green will oversee wine production, working alongside operations director Lucy Neely on management of the vineyards, winery, and overall business. (Press release)

Jack Volz appointed national sales director for Ballentine Vineyards

Volz joins Ballentine Vineyards with over 10 years of experience in fine wine sales and marketing. Most recently, Volz served as the sales manager for Round Pond Estate. In his new role, Volz will be responsible for overseeing Ballentine Vineyards’ domestic wholesale and international distribution. (Press release)

Far Niente Wine Estates announces Thomas Rivers Brown as consulting winemaker

Far Niente Wine Estates has partnered with consulting winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown to further elevate the Cabernet Sauvignon programs across its portfolio. The collaboration has spanned both the vineyards and the winery. As a result, both Far Niente Winery and Bella Union Estate have introduced new wines crafted in collaboration with Rivers Brown: the Far Niente Benson Vale Cabernet Sauvignon, and the Bella Union Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon. (Press release)

Conley Downing named CMO of Archer Roose

Downing joins Archer Roose, a pioneer in the canned wines sector, with 17 years of experience in the spirits industry. Most recently, Downing served as the head of marketing for Pronghorn.co by Diageo. She has also worked in marketing roles for 21Seeds Tequila and Lobos1707 Tequila. In her new role, Downing will oversee the marketing and communications strategy for Archer Roose, focusing on brand awareness and velocity. (Press release)

Patrick Brown named CEO of Oliver Winery

Brown joins Indiana-based Oliver Winery with 30 years of experience in the consumer goods industry. His previous experience includes Unilever, Johnson & Johnson, and Kind Snacks. Most recently, Brown served as the president and CEO of Vega Nutrition. In his new role, Brown aims to build Oliver Winery into the market’s next big growth story. (Press release)

Stoller Wine Group appoints new senior leaders

Jourdan Carralejo is named director of tasting rooms, and Victoria Wilhelm is named director of events. Carralejo, who has eight years of tasting room experience, will oversee Stoller Wine Group’s three Oregon tasting rooms in Bend, Newberg, and Dayton. Wilhelm, who also has ample industry experience, will be responsible for driving Stoller Wine Group’s hospitality mission forward. Together, they will reinforce the company’s commitment to DTC sales growth through reimagined consumer behavior and luxury hospitality experiences. (Press release)

Fritz Stresau named senior director of Aspect Fine Wine for Breakthru Beverage Group

Stresau steps into this role with almost 20 years of experience. He has long been a leader in Breakthru’s fine wine strategy. Most recently, he led Breakthru Florida’s Aspect fine wine team. In his new role, Stresau will amplify the portfolio, develop and implement strategy, and collaborate with Aspect supplier partners to achieve shared goals. (Press release)

Tom Novelline named division manager For Rutherford Wine Company

Novelline joins Rutherford Wine Company with more than 20 years of industry experience. His previous experience includes serving as a national account manager and division sales manager for Delicato, as well as founding the company Vintage Broker Services. In his new role, Novelline will spearhead sales efforts across the northeast region. (Press release)

Stephen Lewin named president and CEO of Conecuh Brands

Lewin joins Conecuh Brands with more than 30 years of leadership experience in the beverage alcohol, hospitality, and entertainment industries. He has held senior positions with Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, Paramount Brands, and LVMH. Most recently, Lewin served as the CEO of ATG Entertainment North America. In his new role, Lewin will aim to further accelerate the growth of Conecuh Brands. (Press release)

Jef Stebben appointed winemaker for Aridus Wine Company

Stebben joins Arizona-based Aridus Wine Company with more than 20 years of winemaking experience. Most recently, he spent 14 years as the winemaker at Maple Springs Vineyard in Pennsylvania. Prior to that, he served as the winemaker for Martin Estate in Napa Valley. In his new role, Stebben will take over winemaking responsibilities from founding winemaker Lisa Strid. (Press release)

Abbey Road Farm appoints new team members

Oregon-based Abbey Road Farm welcomes assistant winemaker Dallas Way, vineyard manager Ben Dymecki, and distribution sales manager Nathalie Quick. Way joins the winemaking team with international winemaking experience in New Zealand, Australia, California, and Oregon. Dymecki has also worked in New Zealand, California, and Oregon while honing his viticulture expertise. Quick joins the sales team with 20 years of experience in the Oregon wine industry, and will help secure a robust network of national distribution partners. (Press release)

Jessica Kogan appointed to Nomadica’s board of directors

Kogan joins the board of directors at Nomadica, one of the first brands to put fine wine in cans, boxes, and kegs, with extensive brand-building expertise. Kogan gained experience as an e-commerce pioneer and marketer after leading digital and brand transformations for companies such as Giorgio Armani, Donna Karan, and Razorfish. Kogan also cofounded Cameron Hughes Wine, which was acquired by Vintage Wine Estates in 2017. (Press release)

Carlos de Jesus named partner and president of Colangelo & Partners Europe

De Jesus joins Colangelo & Partners with a wealth of industry knowledge and global PR expertise. He previously spent more than 20 years with the company Amorim Cork, where he led the marketing and communications department. In his role with the newly created Colangelo & Partners Europe, de Jesus will bolster agency management, expand client services, and build the agency’s international presence. (Press release)

Carlos de Jesus named partner and president of Colangelo & Partners Europe

De Jesus joins Colangelo & Partners with a wealth of industry knowledge and global PR expertise. He previously spent more than 20 years with the company Amorim Cork, where he led the marketing and communications department. In his role with the newly created Colangelo & Partners Europe, de Jesus will bolster agency management, expand client services, and build the agency’s international presence. (Press release)

Ackley Brands appoints Will Wiles as director of winemaking

Wiles joins Seattle-based Ackley Brands with a variety of winemaking experience. He previously spent more than 13 years at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates in several winemaking positions, eventually assuming the role of senior director of winemaking. In his new role, Wiles will oversee winemaking teams based in both Washington and Oregon.

Tony Baldini appointed president of Trefethen Family Vineyards

Baldini joins Trefethen Family Vineyards with decades of leadership experience in the California wine industry. He previously served as the president and CEO of Hahn Family Wines, and most recently, he served as the president and COO for Cliff Lede Vineyards. In his new role, Baldini will work alongside third-generation vintners and the EVPs of the family board, Hailey and Lorenzo Trefethen, to shepherd the winery into its sixth decade. (Press release)

Morgan Maurèze named head winemaker for Seven Apart Winery

Maurèze joins Seven Apart Winery with years of winemaking experience at several well-known brands. He started with an internship at Dominus Estate before attending UC Davis and the University of Bordeaux. He then continued his winemaking journey working for Château Petrus, Château Haut-Brion, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, and others. Now, Maurèze takes over the head winemaker role from Andy Erickson, after the two worked together to transition responsibilities. (Press release)

Jessica Saghafi named business development specialist for Tonnellerie Ô

Saghafi joins Tonnellerie Ô with experience in both winemaking and sales. She previously served as an assistant winemaker and sales rep at Quintessential in Napa. In her new role, Saghafi will be responsible for acquiring new accounts, enhancing cross-selling opportunities, and raising awareness of Tonnellerie Ô and Creative Oak. (Press release)

Michael Costley appointed winemaker for Signorello Estate

Costley joins Signorello Estate with several years of winemaking experience. He previously served as an assistant winemaker for Bella Union and Far Niente Winery, and as a viticulturist for Merryvale Vineyards. In his new role, Costley will oversee winemaking at Signorello’s newly opened winery and caves, which were rebuilt following the 2017 wildfires. (Press release)

Sammy Halpern joins Desolas Mezcal as chief strategy officer and cofounder

Halpern joins Desolas Mezcal with an impressive track record in the wine and spirits industries. He previously served as a managing partner and global brand director at Blue Run Spirits. Before Blue Run, he served as a portfolio manager for Moët Hennessy in the Florida market. In his new role, Halpern will help to develop and execute all sales and marketing strategies for Desolas Mezcal. (Press release)

Bob Gallo, the former co-president of Gallo, has died

Robert ‘Bob’ Gallo died this week at the age of 89. He was the son of Julio Gallo, who cofounded the eponymous wine company with his brother, Ernest Gallo, in 1933. Today, the company is one of the largest wine producers in the world. Bob joined the family business in 1958 and rose to the positions of co-president and co-chairman. He also helped to create G3 Enterprises, which offers wine labels, closures, and trucking. Outside of the wine industry, Bob and his wife, Marie, were big supporters of the arts, among other things, helping to establish the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto, California.

Dorothe Cicchetti promoted to general manager at Stone Edge Farm Winery

Cicchetti joined Stone Edge Farm Winery in 2011 as the director of sales and marketing. She takes on this new role with two decades of experience in the wine industry. Prior to joining Stone Edge Farm, she worked in national sales for The Donum Estate. In her new role, Cicchetti will oversee sales and marketing and manage a team of five employees, finding alignment for Stone Edge Farm’s long-term objectives. (Press release)

Herb Rowland named associate viticulturist for Balletto Vineyards

Rowland joins Balletto Vineyards with extensive experience in viticulture and vineyard management. He grew up on a small, family-owned vineyard, and has worked in vineyards across seven different coastal counties in California. In his new role, Rowland will use his experience to ensure the continued success of Balletto’s vineyards. (Press release)

Hotaling & Co. makes two new corporate appointments

Ryan Ulanch is named commercial planning and operations director and Rowena Rivera is named digital and e-commerce manager. Ulanch will serve as the strategic bridge between Hotaling & Co. and key distributor partners to fuel the growth of the portfolio. Rivera will expand the company’s digital content support to optimize platforms, social media, and other channels. Both are new roles for the company, reflecting the company’s expansion of services and capabilities. (Press release)

Hotaling & Co. makes two new corporate appointments

Ryan Ulanch is named commercial planning and operations director and Rowena Rivera is named digital and e-commerce manager. Ulanch will serve as the strategic bridge between Hotaling & Co. and key distributor partners to fuel the growth of the portfolio. Rivera will expand the company’s digital content support to optimize platforms, social media, and other channels. Both are new roles for the company, reflecting the company’s expansion of services and capabilities. (Press release)

Warren Winiarski, the cofounder of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, has died

Winiarski passed away on June 7 at the age of 95. He moved to Napa Valley in the early 1960s to join the burgeoning wine industry. His early experience included working at Souverain Cellars, and as the assistant winemaker for Robert Mondavi Winery. In 1970, Winiarski, along with some investors, bought land in the Stag’s Leap district of Napa and replanted it to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vines. In 1972, they bought land for a winery, and by 1973, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars was open for business.  

The winery quickly rose to fame; in 1976, Winiarski’s 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon won the famous Judgment of Paris tasting. The win had such a big impact on the American wine industry that today a bottle of the ’73 Cab is on display at The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. Since that time, and over the course of a long and successful career, Winiarski made a profound impact on the wine industry at large.

Libby Spencer appointed COO of Willamette Valley Vineyards

Spencer first joined Willamette Valley Vineyards in 2004 as the national sales coordinator, but left in 2005 to open a wine bar in Massachusetts with her husband. She then returned in 2008 as the sales operations manager before spending 11 years with Enartis USA, most recently as the U.S. national sales manager. Returning again to Willamette Valley Vineyards as the COO, Spencer will oversee all day-to-day operations. (Press release)

Margaret Leonardi-Pruett named senior winemaker for Bonterra Collection

Leonardi-Pruett joined Bonterra Organic Estates in 2015, and today she has nearly 15 years of winemaking experience. Most recently, she served as the head winemaker for Fetzer. In her new role, Leonardi-Prunett will help fuel Bonterra Collection’s burgeoning momentum as more and more consumers seek out organic wines. (Press release)

Corey Garner appointed winemaker for The Federalist

Garner joins the winemaking team for The Federalist, a key brand in the Terlato Wine Group portfolio, with extensive winemaking experience in California. After starting as a lab technician at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards in Sonoma County, she served as an enologist then assistant winemaker at Frank Family Vineyards in Napa Valley. In her new position, Garner will play a key role in the brand’s future growth. (Press release)

Mickey Deehan named national sales director for The Vice Wines

Deehan joins The Vice Wines in Napa Valley with extensive experience in all channels of the trade. He has previously worked for several key companies, including Josh Cellars, Constellation Brands, Gallo, and most recently, Winc. In his new role, Deehan will spearhead the brand’s presence across the entire U.S. market. (Press release)

Anthony Sereni appointed director of winemaking for Flâneur Wines

Sereni joined Willamette Valley-based Flâneur Wines in 2022 as the assistant winemaker. Prior to that, he worked abroad making wine in New Zealand and Spain, and most recently, worked with the winemaking team at Archery Summit. In his new role, Sereni will direct and oversee all winemaking operations at Flâneur. (Press release)

Trevor Langer named beverage director of Porchlight

Langer joins Porchlight, Union Square Hospitality Group’s cocktail bar in Manhattan, with an extensive career in the bar industry. He previously worked for some of NYC’s buzziest bars, including Jac’s on Bond, Georgia Room, and Dear Irving on Hudson. In his new role, Langer will oversee the bar team and the development of the cocktail program, alongside food and beverage director Samantha Reiner. (Press release)

Jason Lede promoted to general manager at Cliff Lede Vineyards

Lede, a second-generation vintner, first worked for his family’s winery in 2005 before joining the business full-time in 2015. Since then, he has served as a sales manager, hospitality manager, and most recently, as the director of communications. In his new role, Lede will oversee all day-to-day operations of the winery and will continue to work closely with his father, Cliff Lede, and the executive team. (Press release)

OneHope Wine expands leadership team

Angelique Ball joins OneHope as general manager and DaMarcus Wells-Buckner joins as assistant general manager. Ball has 24 years of wine industry experience spanning finance, hospitality, marketing, operations, and beyond. Wells-Buckner also has extensive experience working in Napa Valley, most recently for Vineyard 29. Finally, world-renowned winemakers Philippe Melka and Robert Mondavi Jr. will collaborate with OneHope’s lead winemaker Isadora Frias on a series of exclusive, purpose-driven wines. (Press release)

Eric Gallegos named director of vineyard operations for Cliff Lede Vineyards

Gallegos joins Cliff Lede Vineyards with extensive knowledge of the Napa Valley wine industry. He has previously worked with some of Napa’s top winemakers, including Thomas Rivers Brown and Philippe Melka. Most recently, Gallegos served as the vineyard and grower relations manager for Pahlmeyer Winery. In his new role, Gallegos will oversee all farming and viticulture for the winery’s 160 acres of estate vineyards, located across Stags Leap District, Carneros, and Calistoga. (Press release)

Jenna Davis promoted to winemaker at Dumol Winery

Davis joined Dumol Winery in 2014 as a harvest intern, beforing moving into the role of associate winemaker. After a decade of experience working under Andy Smith, who leads the production team as the winegrower and proprietor, Davis now assumes the role of winemaker. In her new role, Davis will use her experience to help drive the winemaking team to new heights. (Press release)

Sarah DelCampo named director of hospitality and consumer sales for Signorello Estate

DelCampo joins Signorello Estate with extensive experience in hospitality and consumer sales within the wine industry. She previously served as the director of consumer sales for Cliff Lede Vineyards, and as the visitor center manager for Schramsberg Vineyards. In her new role, DelCampo will oversee all DTC sales and hospitality for Signorello Estate and its new winery, which opens in mid-June. (Press release)

Kyle Altomare named winemaker for Gloria Ferrer

Altomare joined Gloria Ferrer in 2023 as the associate winemaker. Altomare’s previous experience included roles such as cellar master for Clos Pegase, enologist for Charles Krug, and most recently, a five-year tenure at Raventós Codorníu North America, where he served in winemaking positions. In his new role, Altomare will oversee wine production and winemaking operations for Gloria Ferrer. (Press release)

Guy Barnes named head winemaker for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates’ Columbia Crest

Barnes has been making wines for Columbia Crest and its sister brands H3, Liquid Light, and Intrinsic for 18 years. He has specialized in white winemaking for the past 12 years, with a focus on producing value-driven wines. In his new role, Barnes will oversee Columbia Crest’s winemaking team to produce new wines, and maintain the quality-driven wines that the brand is known for. (Press release)

Avaline expands sales team

Avaline, the wine brand founded by Cameron Diaz and Katherine Power, is expanding its sales team with two new national account directors, Erin Ostrem and Tania Aloma. Ostrem and Aloma join Avaline with extensive expertise in industry and retail chain channels. Ostrem will oversee grocery-based retail national accounts, while Aloma will oversee mass-merchandising, drug, and club accounts. (Press release)

Christine Jagher named CMO for Wander + Ivy

Jagher joins Wander + Ivy, the organic single-serve wine brand, with 20 years of experience. Most recently, Jagher spent 12 years with E. & J. Gallo Winery, serving as the senior director of marketing. There, she managed brands across consumer targets, life stages, and price points. In her new role, Jagher will help drive brand growth. (Press release)

Adelsheim Vineyard makes three key appointments

Ariel Daly joins Adelsheim Vineyard as vineyard manager; Gina Hennen is promoted to director of winemaking and viticulture; and Shaun Vrooman is promoted to production winemaker. Daly, who previously worked at Atlas Vineyard Management, will bring an innovative approach to the management of Adelsheim’s 173 acres of estate vineyards. Hennen, who has been part of the winemaking team for 17 years, will continue to craft the elegant and distinct wines that have shaped Adelsheim’s legacy. After seven years with the team, Vrooman will play a pivotal role in maintaining the high standards that define Adelsheim’s portfolio. (Press release)

Deirdre Mahlan named president and CEO of The Duckhorn Portfolio

Mahlan has been a member of The Duckhorn Portfolio board of directors since 2021, and for the past six months has served as the interim president, CEO, and chairperson. Mahlan assumes her new role with over 30 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry. She previously spent 20 years at Diageo, most recently serving as the president of Diageo North America. In her new role, Mahlan will spearhead the company’s next phase of growth. (Press release)

Edward McCarthy, noted wine author, critic, and educator, has died

McCarthy passed away on May 2 at the age of 87. A wine educator, critic, and author, he was widely recognized for his expertise in Champagne and other sparkling wines. He served as an instructor at the International Wine Center in New York City for almost a decade, though he is best known as the author of Champagne For Dummies and the co-author of Wine For Dummies, which he wrote with his wife Mary Ewing-Mulligan, MW. Both books are part of the popular “For Dummies” series and have helped millions of readers understand and appreciate wine.

Charlie Plummer named director of global sales and marketing for Chateau Montelena

Plummer joins Chateau Montelena with extensive experience in the wine industry. He previously held leadership roles with well-known brands, such as Jackson Family Wines, Merryvale Vineyards, and Paul Hobbs. In his new role, Plummer will elevate the brand’s global footprint by driving the strategy for membership, wholesale, export, and marketing. (Press release)

Brenae Royal named director of vineyard operations for St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery

Royal joins St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery with extensive vineyard operations experience. For the last 11 years, Royal has worked with the historic Gallo-owned Monte Rosso vineyard in Sonoma. In her new role, Royal will be responsible for the winery’s three vineyard locations, including Dollarhide Estate Ranch in northeast Napa Valley, and the two estate vineyards in Rutherford. (Press release)

Brenae Royal named director of vineyard operations for St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery

Royal joins St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery with extensive vineyard operations experience. For the last 11 years, Royal has worked with the historic Gallo-owned Monte Rosso vineyard in Sonoma. In her new role, Royal will be responsible for the winery’s three vineyard locations, including Dollarhide Estate Ranch in northeast Napa Valley, and the two estate vineyards in Rutherford. (Press release)

Cliff Lede Vineyards names Anne Champagne as director of sales, south

Champagne joins Cliff Lede Vineyards with more than two decades of experience. Previously, she spent several years with Joseph Phelps Vineyards, where she held key positions such as regional sales manager and brand director. In her new role, Champagne will oversee Cliff Lede Vineyards’ sales and distribution in 14 states, including Texas, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. (Press release)

James Wheeler appointed director of Lyan Bars

Wheeler has worked for the Lore Group, the umbrella company of Lyan Bars, for nine years. In 2015, he started out as the assistant general manager of Dandelyan, then quickly moved up the ranks. In his new role, Wheeler will be responsible for all of Mr Lyan bars globally, including Super Lyan in Amsterdam and Silver Lyan in Washington, D.C. (Press release)

Andrew Holve named winemaker and director of winery operations for Hudson Napa Valley

Holve joins Hudson Napa Valley, a winery in the Carneros region, with extensive winemaking experience. He previously served as the head winemaker for Newton Vineyards, also in Napa. In his new role, Holve will work closely with owners Lee and Cristina Hudson and collaborate with John Kongsgaard, Hudson’s founding winemaker and current consulting winemaker. (Press release)

William Slone, the former chairman of Beverage Media Group, has died

It is with deep sorrow that Beverage Media Group (BMG), the sister publication to SevenFifty Daily, announces the passing of its former chairman, William Slone. He leaves behind a legacy that will forever resonate within the publication and the beverage alcohol industry at large.

Slone played an instrumental role in building BMG, contributing his expertise, passion, and vision to shape the publication. Founded in 1936 by Slone’s father and uncle, BMG set the stage for a publication that grew with the beverage alcohol industry, connecting suppliers, distributors, and licensed retailers with timely trade news and information. 

Slone was a prominent force in many initiatives to enhance the company, such as improving communications among its publications and launching new editorial and marketing products driven by the latest technologies. The enduring contribution of Slone and BMG continues to reverberate throughout the beverage alcohol industry, shaping its landscape and driving meaningful impact.

Guy Barnes promoted to head winemaker at Columbia Crest

Barnes has worked for Columbia Crest, the third-largest Washington wine brand, for 18 years. His work with brands H3, Liquid Light, and Intrinsic has focused on white winemaking. In his new role, Barnes will lead the winemaking staff forward with new innovations, while maintaining the legacy of high-quality Washington wines. (Press release)

Aaron Bader appointed director of winemaking and production for Bin to Bottle

Bader joins Bin to Bottle, a custom crush winery and spirits co-packer in Napa Valley, with more than 30 years of experience in winemaking and alternative beverage production. Bader served as the winemaker for his family’s winery, Phoenix Vineyards, for 10 years, before gaining experience at Opus One, Darioush, and Adler Fels Winery. In his new role, Bader will collaborate with clients on their winemaking and beverage projects. (Press release)

Keith Morris named VP and general manager of Big Cork Vineyards

Morris joins Big Cork Vineyards, a top wine producer in Maryland’s Blue Ridge Mountains, with almost 20 years of experience. Previously, Morris spent 17 years at Cline Family Cellars in Sonoma, California, where he held several roles, including EVP of sales and national sales manager. In his new role, Morris will drive brand growth, enhance the guest experience, and build awareness of the brand’s quality. (Press release)

Kate Palmer appointed VP of sales at Tilden

Palmer joins Tilden, a premium non-alcoholic cocktail brand, with more than 25 years of industry experience. Previously, Palmer served as the VP of craft spirits at Horizon Beverage Group before starting her own spirits and cocktail brand incubator, Hearts + Tales Beverage Co. In her new role, Palmer will drive Tilden’s expansion into key markets, grow the sales team, and continue to introduce Tilden to new consumers looking for quality, non-alcoholic drinks options. (Press release)

Jeff Branson promoted to SVP and managing director of commercial for Bacardi North America

Branson takes on the promotion with more than 20 years of industry experience. Previously at Bacardi, Branson led the company’s business in Canada, where he served as the VP and general manager. In his new role, Branson will be responsible for delivering on the commercial plans for North America, and maintaining strong relationships with distributor partners and key customers. (Press release)

Wente Family Estates names Christine Wente as chairman of the board

Christine Wente, a fifth-generation winegrower, takes over as chairman of the board as Carolyn Wente, who has served as the chairman since 2021, transitions to chairman emeritus. Christine has worked with the winery for 24 years, and has served on the board for 13 years. In her new role, Christine will keep driving innovation to ensure that Wente Family Estates continues to push the envelope when it comes to wine quality, packaging, technology, sustainability, and community engagement. (Press release)

Jenn Engel named chief commercial and strategy officer for Banfi Vintners

Engel, who previously worked for Banfi from 2008 to 2015, returns with decades of leadership experience in the industry. After leaving Banfi in 2015, Engel served as the VP of sales at Santa Margherita USA. She then spent four years at the Republic National Distributing Company, working her way up to chief customer and commercial officer. In her new role, Engel will oversee sales and marketing, distributor relations, and help shape the strategic trajectory of the portfolio. (Press release)

Christopher Crosbie appointed VP of sales for B.R. Distilling Company

Crosbie joins B.R. Distilling Company, the parent company for Blue Note whiskey, with experience in both sales and distilled spirits. He previously worked for such companies as Diageo and, most recently, Altos Planos Collective. In his new role, Crosbie will develop the company’s annual operating plan, which will aim to build brand awareness, education, and sales for Blue Note whiskey. (Press release)

Sam Dearden named director of sales and hospitality for Sleeping Giant Winery

Dearden joins Sleeping Giant Winery with more than five years of industry experience. Most recently, Dearden served as the director of sales and hospitality at Mira Winery in Napa Valley. In his new role, Dearden will oversee DTC sales at the winery and all tasting room operations. (Press release)

John G. Franzia, the cofounder of Bronco Wine Co., has died

Franzia passed away this week at the age of 84. He cofounded Bronco Wine Co. with his cousins, Fred and Joseph Franzia, in 1973 after the Franzia brand was sold to Coca-Cola. Bronco Wine Co. went on to become famous for its Charles Shaw brand that produces Two Buck Chuck, a budget-friendly wine that has introduced scores of consumers to California wine.

Carrie Gurule appointed head winemaker for Gruet Winery

Gurule joined Gruet Winery in 2016 as part of the winemaking team. During that time, Gurule was responsible for Gruet’s cellar processes, quality control, and lab management. She also has extensive experience in vineyard and winery operations management. In her new role, Gurule will strive to uphold Gruet’s legacy of creating quality traditional method sparkling wines. (Press release)

Chris Avery named president of Darioush

Avery joins Darioush with almost 20 years of industry experience. Most recently, he served as the president of Patrimony Estate. He has previously served as the EVP of sales and marketing at DAOU Vineyards and the VP of sales and marketing at Opus One. In his new role, Avery will continue to enhance the global presence and recognition of this family-owned brand. (Press release)

Conecuh Brands expands sales leadership team

Pam Loch joins Conecuh Brands as the VP of national accounts, on-premise, and Bill Nolan joins in the role of VP of national accounts, off-premise. In their respective roles, Loch and Nolan will be responsible for accelerating the growth of Conecuh Brands’ portfolio across key national accounts in the on- and off-premise channels. (Press release)

Lobos 1707 Tequila & Mezcal appoints new executive leaders

Joanna Darst, Elaine King, and Joel Selesnick join Lobos 1707’s executive team. Darst is named VP of consumer and digital marketing, bringing years of experience in global brand strategy; King is appointed VP of trade promotions and strategic partnerships, leveraging her background in sales and marketing; and Selesnick is named VP of broad market sales, bringing a wealth of experience in spirits sales. Finally, Frank Schulman is promoted to VP of national and strategic accounts, where he will continue to deliver on quotas through exceptional sales strategy. (Press release)

Lobos 1707 Tequila & Mezcal appoints new executive leaders

Joanna Darst, Elaine King, and Joel Selesnick join Lobos 1707’s executive team. Darst is named VP of consumer and digital marketing, bringing years of experience in global brand strategy; King is appointed VP of trade promotions and strategic partnerships, leveraging her background in sales and marketing; and Selesnick is named VP of broad market sales, bringing a wealth of experience in spirits sales. Finally, Frank Schulman is promoted to VP of national and strategic accounts, where he will continue to deliver on quotas through exceptional sales strategy. (Press release)

Kryss Speegle, MW, promoted to EVP of winegrowing at O'Neill Vintners & Distillers

Speegle joined O’Neill Vintners & Distillers in 2011 as a production winemaker. She then became the director of winemaking, followed by VP of B2B sales. She has worked  harvests in Napa Valley, Germany, New Zealand, and California’s coastal and interior regions. In her new role, Speegle will oversee all stages of the winegrowing and winemaking process. (Press release)

Kryss Speegle, MW, promoted to EVP of winegrowing at O’Neill Vintners & Distillers

Speegle joined O’Neill Vintners & Distillers in 2011 as a production winemaker. She then became the director of winemaking, followed by VP of B2B sales. She has worked  harvests in Napa Valley, Germany, New Zealand, and California’s coastal and interior regions. In her new role, Speegle will oversee all stages of the winegrowing and winemaking process. (Press release)

Nick Holmes named VP of sales for Ashes & Diamonds

Holmes joins Ashes & Diamonds with almost 20 years of industry sales experience. Most recently, he served as the VP of sales for Daou Vineyards’ luxury portfolio, and prior to that he was the sales director at Opus One. In his new role, Holmes will oversee all domestic wholesale and international sales efforts. (Press release)

Nick Holmes named VP of sales for Ashes & Diamonds

Holmes joins Ashes & Diamonds with almost 20 years of industry sales experience. Most recently, he served as the VP of sales for Daou Vineyards’ luxury portfolio, and prior to that he was the sales director at Opus One. In his new role, Holmes will oversee all domestic wholesale and international sales efforts. (Press release)

Sam Glaetzer named EVP and president of Constellation Brands’ wine and spirits division

Glaetzer joined Constellation Brands in 2014 as the managing director of the New Zealand and Australian operations. Since that time, Glaetzer has held several leadership roles, spanning general management to new product development. Most recently, Glaetzer served as the SVP of global operations and international sales. In his new role, Glaetzer will be responsible for delivering growth and improved profitability for the wine and spirits division. (Press release)

Alex Ryan appointed independent director for Delicato Family Wines

Ryan joins Delicato Family Wines’ board of directors with more than 30 years of experience in the wine industry. He has spent 35 years with The Duckhorn Portfolio, elevating it to a premier luxury wine company in North America. In his new role, Ryan will serve as an important asset as Delicato works to build its portfolio and scale the winery. (Press release)

James Saxon named director of whiskymaking for Compass Box

Saxon joined Compass Box in 2019 and spent the past five years developing whisky creations alongisde brand founder John Glaser. Saxon played a key role in developing fan favorites like Flaming Heart 2022, No Name No. 3, and Vellichor. In his new role, Saxon will be responsible for safeguarding company recipes while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in Scotch. (Press release)

Serge Laville appointed winemaker for Reali Family Vineyard

Laville joins Reali Family Vineyard, a new winery in Walla Walla, Washington, with extensive winemaking experience. He previously spent 20 years as the winemaker at Spring Valley Vineyard, which was purchased by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates in 2004. In his new role, Laville will have the opportunity to build Reali Family Vineyard’s winemaking program from the ground up.

Jacques-Olivier Pesme named director of Wine Origins Alliance

Pesme joins Wine Origins Alliance (WOA) with more than 20 years of wine industry experience. He has worked with international organizations in dozens of countries advising key leaders and policymakers. His past experience includes positions with the UN and the International Trade Centre, the Wine Research Centre at the University of British Columbia, and the University of Adelaide. In his new role, Pesme will work with the WOA and its members to protect wine region names around the world and eliminate trade barriers on wine. (Press release)

Ashley Cesario promoted to national sales director for Jordan Vineyard & Winery

Cesario has over 15 years of industry experience, including more than 10 years of experience at Jordan Winery. She joined Jordan in 2013 as the northeast regional sales director, where she helped develop Jordan’s global distribution strategy. In her new role, Cesario will play a key role in shaping the company’s global sales strategy, while strengthening the winery’s standing in diverse markets. (Press release)

Ashley Cesario promoted to national sales director for Jordan Vineyard & Winery

Cesario has over 15 years of industry experience, including more than 10 years of experience at Jordan Winery. She joined Jordan in 2013 as the northeast regional sales director, where she helped develop Jordan’s global distribution strategy. In her new role, Cesario will play a key role in shaping the company’s global sales strategy, while strengthening the winery’s standing in diverse markets. (Press release)

Aperture Cellars names Brad Butcher as director of wholesale, north and export

Butcher joins Aperture Cellars with a wealth of experience in luxury wine sales. Most recently, Butcher served as the national sales director for Jordan Winery, a role that he held since 2016. In his new role, Butcher will provide experienced support as Aperture Cellars expands its reach into new markets throughout the U.S. and globally. (Press release)

Marin Brennan promoted to winemaker at Bedell Cellars

Brennan joined Bedell Cellars, located in the North Fork of Long Island, as part of the winemaking team in 2011. During this time, Brennan helped craft some of the most notable wines coming out of the region. In her new role, Brennan will work closely with her longtime mentor, Richard Olsen-Harbich, who will assume the role of director of winemaking for the estate. (Press release)

Dave Krupinski appointed CEO of Coravin, Inc.

Krupinski, who previously served as Coravin’s chief operating officer and chief technology officer, will now take over as the chief executive officer and join the company’s board of directors. Krupinski has over 25 years of experience. Prior to joining Coravin, he was the cofounder and CTO of Care.com. In his new role, Krupinski will work closely with the executive team to shape the company’s strategic direction. (Press release)

Hillary Sjolund promoted to director of winemaking at Aperture Cellars

Sjolund joined Aperture Cellars in 2019 as the assistant winemaker, working alongside founder and head winemaker Jesse Katz. Previously, Sjolund has held winemaking positions with Pine Ridge Winery in Napa and DiStefano Winery in Washington. In her new role, Sjolund will help shape the direction of Aperture Cellars, as well as Katz’s Malbec brand, Devil Proof Vineyards. (Press release)

Compass Box names Jeff Popkin as president of the Americas

Popkin joins Compass Box with a long history of industry experience. Most recently, he served as the VP of sales for Stoli Group. His previous roles include SVP of sales for Taub Family Selections and director of sales for Red Bull. In his new role, Popkin will oversee the U.S., Canada, and Latin American markets. (Press release)

Bruno Almeida, sommelier and Portuguese wine champion, has died

Almeida passed away on February 12, according to a GoFundMe page set up by his family. He was a beloved member of the New York City wine community, a sommelier and educator who was also a passionate champion of the wines of his home country, Portugal. 

Almeida, dubbed the “Drummelier,” came to New York as a drummer in a rock band, taking jobs in restaurants on the side and discovering a love of wine. He worked as a sommelier at numerous NYC restaurants, including Locanda Verde, Dirty French, and Tocqueville, where he was the sommelier and wine director for eight years. Not only was Almeida deeply knowledgeable, easily connecting with guests, but he was warm and welcoming as a colleague, too. It was this big heart and bright spirit that made him a friend to many in the industry.

Later, Almeida became an educator and judge, hosting events, masterclasses, and virtual discussions about the wines of Portugal and beyond. In 2022, he was named Wine Educator of the Year by The Hue Society.

Above all, Almeida was a proud father to his son Alex, always volunteering for closing shifts in order to spend as much time with him as possible. Several fundraisers have been launched to support Almeida’s son and family going forward.

Lisa Wicker appointed master distiller for Garrard County Distilling Co.

Wicker joins Garrard County Distilling Co. with more than 20 years of distilling and winemaking experience. Most recently, Wicker spent six years as the president and master distiller of Widow Jane Distillery in Brooklyn. In her new role, Wicker will oversee whiskey making at the all-new independent distillery in Kentucky. (Press release)

Allison Wilson named director of vineyard operations for Domaine Carneros

Wilson joins Domaine Carneros with over a decade of experience managing vineyards. Previously, Wilson spent nine years with Cliff Lede Vineyards, rising from viticulturist to the director of vineyard operations. In her new role, Wilson will lead a dedicated team that oversees six estate vineyards, including over 400 acres in the Carneros AVA. (Press release)

Leila Pearson promoted to VP of sales and marketing at Kistler Vineyards

Pearson joined Kistler Vineyards in 2023 with more than 25 years of industry experience. Over her career, Pearson has developed wine industry expertise, a global and national sales acumen, and a forward-thinking mindset, which has set her up for success in this newly created position. In her new role, Pearson will be responsible for the brand’s wholesale, marketing, and outbound events strategies. (Press release)

WES Brands announces expansion of its leadership team

Todd May joins WES Brands as the senior VP of sales. May, the former senior director of sales at Constellation Brands, will support the national expansion of Aspen Vodka and its fast-growing portfolio. Joel Castillo is named senior brand director of Aspen Vodka and Flecha Azul Tequila. Castillo brings with him a decade of experience with companies like Moet Hennessy USA and Pernod Ricard. (Press release).

Andre Swart promoted to assistant winemaker at Balletto Vineyards

Swart joined Balletto Vineyards in 2022 with a wealth of global winemaking experience. He previously worked harvests in California, New York, New Zealand, and France. At Balletto, Swart has worked closely with winemaker Anthony Beckman to craft single-vineyard Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays from the company’s estate properties. (Press release)

Bronco Wine Co. appoints two new senior leaders

Mike Carranza is named CFO and Mike Gilboy is named managing director of national sales. Carranza joins the company with 20 years of experience in senior positions within the wine industry. In his new role, Carranza will be responsible for enhancing the overall profitability and competitiveness of the business. Gilboy joins Bronco with nearly 30 years of industry sales experience. In his role, Gilboy will be responsible for delivering exceptional sales results for the company. (Press release)

Mitchell McSorley named regional sales manager for Mt. Beautiful USA

McSorley joins Mt. Beautiful USA with experience in many areas of the wine industry. He previously worked for Total Wine & More, The Estates Group of Young’s Market, and a Napa Valley-based winery. As Mt. Beautiful’s regional sales manager for the West Coast, McSorley will oversee sales in nine states, including California, Oregon, and Washington. (Press release)

Patrick Eppacher appointed export manager for Austrian Wine

Eppacher joins the Austrian Wine Marketing Board (Austrian Wine) following the departure of Michael Tischler-Zimmermann, who served as the export manager for more than seven years. In his new role, Eppacher will be responsible for the strategic planning and implementation of export initiatives led by the company’s umbrella wine marketing organization in Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific. (Press release)

Donald Freytag named chief commercial and marketing officer for Blue Ocean Brands

Freytag joins Blue Ocean Brands, a global distilled spirits holding company, with a wealth of industry and leadership experience. His previous experience includes leadership positions with Rabbit Hole Distillery, Hawaii Sea Spirits, and Brown Forman. In his new role, Freytag will focus primarily on developing the Kurvball Flavored Whiskey brand, a fast-growing product that is uniquely positioned in the marketplace. (press release)

Timothy Basham appointed VP of U.S. sales for Phenomenal Spirits

Basham joins Phenomenal Spirits with extensive experience in beverage alcohol sales. He previously started his own wholesale distribution company, and prior to that, he worked as a sales representative for companies such as Federal Wine and Liquor. In his new role, Basham, will lead Phenomenal Spirits’ aggressive expansion plan throughout the U.S. (Press release)

Chad Walsh named global sales director for Ernest Vineyards

Walsh joins Ernest Vineyards with experience in many areas of the wine industry. He previously worked as a sommelier for restaurants such as The Dutch in New York City. He then transitioned into wholesale, working for companies such as Skurnik and T. Edward. In his new position, Walsh will play a crucial role in expanding the company’s reach in both domestic and international markets. (Press release)

Foley Family Wines names Chip Tate as master distiller for innovation

Tate joins Foley Family Wines with decades of experience in the spirits industry. He is best known for founding Texas-based Balcones Distilling in 2008. There, he crafted a line of Texas whiskeys, including an award-winning corn whisky called Baby Blue. In his new role, Tate will be responsible for expanding Foley’s portfolio of spirits, and for collaborating with other Foley Family master distillers to create a collection of top-quality spirits. (Press release)

Caleb Mosley named executive director of Napa Valley Grapegrowers

Mosley has served on the board of directors for Napa Valley Grapegrowers since 2019. His viticulture experience includes working on the Monte Bello vineyard for Ridge Vineyards and the Eisele vineyard for Araujo Estate, among others. In his new role, Mosley will draw upon his vast experience in vineyard management and cutting edge viticulture to craft the strategic vision for the organization. (Press release)

Nate Hall promoted to winemaker at Jada Vineyard

Hall joined Paso Robles-based Jada Vineyard in 2017 as the assistant winemaker. Previously, Hall worked a harvest at Sextant, and as the assistant winemaker for Kukkula. At Jada, Hall has led the pursuit of organic certification with California Certified Organic Farmers, which the estate vineyard received in 2023, and sustainable certification under the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance. (Press release)

Clayton Payne named national account manager for DeLille Cellars

Payne joins DeLille Cellars with extensive experience in supplier sales. Most recently, he spent almost nine years with Hahn Family Wines, working his way up from Texas account specialist to VP of national strategic retail. Prior to Hahn, Payne spent four years as a district sales manager for Glazer’s Distributing. In his new role, Payne will be responsible for driving off-premise national account business. (Press release)

Cedar Ridge Distillery promotes two senior leaders

​​Jamie Siefken is named president and general manager and Murphy Quint is named master distiller, in addition to his role as director of operations. Under Siefken’s leadership, the brand has become available on- and off-premise in 32 states. On the production side, Quint has expanded the portfolio of award-winning bourbons and introduced The QuintEssential, one of the first American Single Malts. (Press release)

Brian Storrs named CEO of The Craig Stoller Collection

Storrs joins The Craig Stoller Collection with more than 35 years of professional experience. He was the founder and president of the wine and spirits consulting firm Pump Over, Inc., and previously served as the president of Slainte Wines. In his new role, Storrs will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company’s portfolio of brands, including Sextant, Paris Valley Road, and Windemere. (Press release)

Ryan Watson named CMO of Vintage Wine Estates

Watson joins Vintage Wine Estates with nearly 20 years of experience. His previous roles include top companies such as Amazon, Kraft Heinz, and Tesco. Most recently, he served as a partner at Boston Consulting Group. In his new role, Watson will lead the effort to drive consumer- and demand-centric thinking across the business. (Press release)

Cameron Parry named director of winemaking and viticulture for J. Bookwalter

Parry joins J. Bookwalter, one of Washington State’s oldest wineries, with more than two decades of winemaking experience. He previously held roles with top California wineries, such as Chateau Montelena and Groth Vineyards. Most recently, he served as the director of winemaking for Washington Vintners in Walla Walla. In his new role, Parry will join the senior leadership team and oversee all grape growing and winemaking activities for the 50,000-case winery. (Press release)

Will and Georgia Sugerman launch Better Half Partners

The Sugermans started Better Half Partners, a wine and beverage consulting company, with over three decades of combined experience. Georgia’s experience includes sales roles at T Edward Wines, advising for various wine clubs, and consulting on distributor relations. Will’s experience spans wine retail, sales at Skurnik Wines, and founding Vintus New York. With Better Half Partners, the Sugermans will leverage their professional partnership and vast experience to help clients grow their businesses.

Thomas Palauqui named California sales manager for Martine’s Wines

Palauqui joined Martine’s Wines in 2018 and previously served as the North Bay sales representative. Prior to joining Martine’s Wines, Palauqui managed fine dining teams in Michelin-starred restaurants. In his new role, Palauqui will be responsible for developing the California sales team and growing the distribution business within the state. (Press release)

Rebecca Geschwender appointed hospitality director for Bartholomew Estate Winery

Geschwender joins Bartholomew Estate Winery with 20 years of experience. She previously served in hospitality positions for some of California’s top producers, such as Grgich Hills Estate Winery and Rutherford Wine Company. In her new role, Geschwender will focus on growing sales in all areas of the company, including food and wine experiences and small-scale events. (Press release)

Allen Papp promoted to VP of global sales at Darioush

Papp joined Darioush in 2003 as one of the company’s first employees. Over the years, Papp developed his career within the organization, moving from national sales manager to director and now to a VP role. In his new position, Papp will oversee all aspects of growth, sales strategy, and operations on an international scale. (Press release)

Jamey Martin named chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer for Beam Suntory

Martin joins Beam Suntory with over a decade of experience working in human resources. Martin spent 15 years with Mondelēz International, most recently serving as the company’s senior director of global diversity, equity, and inclusion. In her new role, Martin will be responsible for making an impact across the company’s three-pillar DE&I strategy. (Press release)

David Rosenthal appointed winemaker for Obelisco Estate

Rosenthal joins Obelisco with decades of Washington winemaking experience. He previously spent over 20 years working for Chateau Ste. Michelle, where he served as the head white winemaker for seven years. In his new role, Rosenthal will craft classically style wines that Obelisco founder Doug Long originally envisioned.

David Pratt named VP of sales for Union Wine Co.

Pratt joins Union Wine Co. with over 20 years of experience in wholesale distribution. He spent 14 years at Foley Family Wines, where he most recently served as the VP of sales for the eastern U.S. In his new role, Pratt will lead the company’s distribution efforts with a focus on expanding the market presence of Union’s brands. (Press release)

Shannon Muracchioli named chief of marketing for Groth Vineyards & Winery

Muracchioli joins Groth Vineyards & Winery with over 20 years of experience in wine marketing, hospitality, and sales. Muracchioli previously held roles in marketing and DTC at several California wineries, including Clos du Val, Donum Estate, and Ram’s Gate Winery. Most recently, she served as the VP of consumer sales and marketing at Sequoia Grove Winery. (Press release)

Shannon Muracchioli named chief of marketing for Groth Vineyards & Winery

Muracchioli joins Groth Vineyards & Winery with over 20 years of experience in wine marketing, hospitality, and sales. Muracchioli previously held roles in marketing and DTC at several California wineries, including Clos du Val, Donum Estate, and Ram’s Gate Winery. Most recently, she served as the VP of consumer sales and marketing at Sequoia Grove Winery. (Press release)

Ashton Leutner promoted to director of viticulture at Continuum Estate

Leutner joined Continuum Estate in 2018 as a viticulturist. Now, she will take over for Ryan Gerhardt, who is stepping away from Continuum Estate after 15 years with the company. In her new role, Leutner will oversee all vineyard operations as well as the advancement of organic and regenerative farming practices at the estate. (Press release)

Miljenko Grgich, the groundbreaking Napa Valley winemaker, has died

Grgich passed away this week at the age of 100. Originally from Croatia, he escaped communist rule and eventually made his way to California in the 1950s with hopes of making wine. Grgich went on to hold several notable winemaking roles, the most significant being at Chateau Montelena. There, he made the Chardonnay that went on to win the Judgement of Paris in 1976 and propelled Napa Valley to international fame. The success also allowed him to finally start his own winery with Austin Hills in 1977. Today, Grgich Hills, which Grgich led until 2018, remains a benchmark producer in the region.

Scott Stewart named general manager of California for Skurnik Wines and Spirits

Stewart joins Skurnik with over 20 years of wine and hospitality experience. For the past 11 years, he worked for Chambers & Chambers Wine Merchants, most recently as the VP of sales and marketing. In his new role, Stewart will be responsible for managing and growing Skurnik’s California distribution business. (Press release)

Jennifer Purcell appointed CEO of Avaline

Purcell joined Avaline, the wine brand founded by Cameron Diaz and Katherine Power, in May 2020 as the CFO, and was named president in April 2022. Prior to joining Avaline, Purcell served as the VP of finance and corporate strategy at Thrive Market, and, most recently, as the CFO of Lumi. In her new role, Purcell will drive the company’s 2024 strategy, focusing on on-premise and sponsorships. (Press release)

Adam Howell named CFO of Crimson Wine Group

Howell joins Crimson Wine Group with extensive experience in both finance and wine. Most recently, he served as the SVP of finance and accounting for the Duckhorn Portfolio, Inc. In his new role, Howell will join Crimson’s executive team and report directly to Jennifer Locke, the CEO. (Press release)

Jeff Chaney named VP of sales for Alma Rosa Winery

Chaney comes to Alma Rosa with more than a decade of experience working in California’s Central Coast wine industry. Most recently, he spent six years as the general manager at Grimm’s Bluff Winery in Santa Barbara. In his new role, Chaney will oversee all DTC sales and wholesale distribution, including the development of hospitality programs at Alma Rosa’s Solvang tasting room and the vineyard estate Ranch House. (Press release)

Cher Engelstad appointed national sales manager for Au Bon Climat

Engelstad joins Au Bon Climat with more than 20 years of experience in fine wine sales. Most recently, Engelstad worked for Joseph Phelps Vineyards as a divisional sales manager. In her new role, Engelstad will manage all aspects of national sales and oversee the company’s relationships with distributors across the U.S. (Press release)

Conor McQuaid named CEO of North America for Pernod Ricard

McQuaid has worked for Pernod Ricard for 25 years and has held various leadership positions across the company. Most recently, he served as the EVP of sustainability and responsibility, communications, and public affairs. He will succeed Ann Mukherjee, who recently stepped down. In his new role, McQuaid will use his experience to advance Pernod Ricard’s ambitions in North America. (Press release)

Farzana Shubarna named VP of operations for Vintage Wine Estates

Shubarna joins Vintage Wine Estates with extensive experience in the fast-moving consumer goods and nutrition industries. Previously, Shubarna served as the global director for the center of excellence at Unilever LTD. In her new role, Shubarna will help Vintage Wine Estates drive greater efficiency and best-in-class practices. (Press Release)

Prestige Wine Imports appoints two new senior leaders

Andrew Meyer is named chief sales officer and December Semexant is named chief financial officer. Meyer joins Prestige Wine Imports from Don Sebastiani & Sons, where he spent 14 years in a variety of roles of increasing responsibility, including as global VP of sales for wine and spirits. Semexant is a 14-year veteran of the company, and will now be responsible for the finance, accounting, supply chain, and human resource functions. (Press release)

Georgetta Dane appointed technical sales manager for Vason Group

Dane joins Vason Group with over 20 years of winemaking experience, giving her a deep level of hands-on wine knowledge. She also has leadership experience from roles with Golden State Vintners and, most recently, The Wine Group. In her new role, Dane will be covering California’s central coast, focusing on the company’s enology and equipment products. (Press release)

David Amadia appointed president of Peju Winery

Amadia joins Peju Winery with more than three decades of experience in the wine industry. Most notably, Amadia spent 17 years with Ridge Vineyards, working his way up to the role of president. In his new position, Amadia will be responsible for overseeing all facets of the business, including winemaking, vineyard management, sales, marketing, finance, and administration. (Press release)

Kimberlee Marinelli named assistant winemaker and viticulturist for Opus One

Marinnelli joined Opus One in 2021 as an intern. She previously worked various winemaking, viticulture, and hospitality roles at Demetria Estate & Vineyards, Great Bear Vineyards, and the UC Davis research winery. In her new role, Marinnelli will be responsible for all aspects of carbon capture, agroecology, and regenerative farming, in addition to her winemaking duties. (Press release)

Erin Luby named VP of consumer experiences for Far Niente Wine Estates

Luby joins Far Niente Wine Estates with over 20 years of experience in the wine and hospitality industries. Most recently, Luby spent 15 years as the SVP of direct to consumer at Vintage Wine Estates. In her new role, Luby will use her skills to enhance guest experiences at Far Niente Winery, Nickel & Nickel Winery, and the new Bella Union Winery, which is set to open in the summer of 2024. (Press release)

Shaun Belongie named CEO for New Belgium Brewing

Belongie, who has spent the past five years serving as New Belgium Brewing’s CMO, is now moving into the role of CEO following the departure of former CEO Steve Fechheimer. Prior to joining New Belgium Brewing, Belongie spent a decade working a variety of finance, sales, and marketing roles at Kraft Foods and Nestle Purina. As CEO, Belongie will help guide New Belgium into its next chapter. (Press release)

Gretchen Brakesman appointed North American sales director for Tonnellerie Cadus – AnA Selection

Brakesman joins Cadus-AnA with over 20 years of experience supporting winemakers and forging collaborative relationships. She also owns a boutique winery in Napa County with her husband. As the North American sales director, Brakesman will oversee the Cadus-Ana team and support customers in Napa and Texas. (Press release)

Danni Farnsworth appointed social media and marketing manager for Sean Minor Wines

Farnsworth joins Sonoma-based Sean Minor Wines with a proven track record of marketing in the food and agricultural sectors. She has managed successful marketing campaigns for wineries and agricultural businesses in California, which have amplified reach and engagement with customers. In her new role, Farnsworth will play a key role in enhancing the company’s digital presence. (Press release)

Tyler Huff appointed distillery manager for the forthcoming Conecuh Ridge Distillery

Huff joins Conecuh Brands with several years of experience in distillery operations. He most recently worked for Nelson’s Green Brier, where he served as the senior distiller. In his new role, Huff will manage all manufacturing for the forthcoming Alabama distillery, which is slated to open in the spring of 2024. (Press release)

Ian Hartnett named U.S. sales manager for Tonnellerie Boutes

Hartnett joins the French cooperage Tonnellerie Boutes with more than 20 years of experience in the wine industry. The majority of that time he has spent cultivating growth for French oak cooperages in North America. In his new role, Hartnett will oversee the company’s U.S. sales. (Press release)

Bill Smart named general manager for Martinelli Vineyards and Winery

Smart joins Martinelli Vineyards and Winery with a long history of experience working in the California wine industry. His previous experience includes marketing and management roles at St. Supery Winery, Dry Creek Vineyards, and Lambert Bridge Winery. Most recently, he served as the general manager for ​Limerick Lane Winery. In his new role, Smart will oversee all aspects of the Martinelli’s winery business. (Press release)

Jennifer Pyle appointed sales and hospitality manager for Alma Rosa Winery

Pyle joins Alma Rosa with 16 years of hospitality management experience. Over that time, Pyle has also focused on wine education, completing her WSET diploma with funding from competitive scholarships. In her new role, Pyle will be responsible for overseeing and expanding all aspects of Alma Rosa’s hospitality program and for delivering engaging wine education to employees, visitors, and club members. (Press release)

Wente Family Estates announces two new appointments

Brian Allard joins Wente as the executive director of DTC and customer experience, and Andrew Bradbury joins as the director of customer experience and sales. Allard, who has more than 20 years of executive-level business management experience, will oversee the tasting lounge and wine club, and manage the new culinary partnership with Levy. Bradbury will oversee the tasting rooms and club businesses across the Wente Family Estates portfolio. (Press release)

Mandie Silver named U.S. national sales director for Valdemar Family

Silver joins Valdemar Family with many years of experience in national and regional sales. Most recently, she spent six years with Vintage Wine Estates overseeing 54 brands across eight markets. Silver has also held key roles at other top companies, such as O’Neill Vintners & Distillers and Breakthru Beverage Group. In her new role, Silver will spearhead Valdemar Family’s U.S. distribution efforts. (Press release)

Herman Hochberg, a fixture in the New York liquor industry, has died

Hochberg passed away at the age of 93. He owned Queens Wines and Liquors in Ridgewood for 68 years before selling the company in 2016. As an active community member, he quickly became a staple in New York City’s wine and spirits community and made a profound impact on the lives of many people, both inside and outside of the industry.

Hochberg was a generous supporter of many of the liquor industry’s charitable causes, such as serving as the founder of A Chance In Life’s annual wine and spirits charity dinner. He was also active in the broader New York community as a member of the Ridgewood Community Planning Board, the director of the Mount Carmel Cemetery, and a volunteer at the Park East Synagogue, among other organizations.

Lily Mirabelle Freedman appointed general manager for Dunn Vineyards

Freedman joins Dunn Vineyards with a decade of experience in the global fine wine market. She previously served as the director of special projects for the wine auction house Acker Wines before moving to Colgin Cellars to oversee their marketing efforts. In her newly created role, Freedman will oversee Dunn Vineyards’ operations, including distribution, marketing, and strategy. (Press release)

Olga Fusari named winemaker for Ruffino

Fusari joins Ruffino with a degree in viticulture and enology from the University of Florence and more than 15 years of professional winemaking experience at Ornellaia, one Italy’s most renowned estates. In her new role, Fusari will manage Ruffino’s Tuscan blends, including the Modus, Modus Primo, and Alauda wines produced at the Poggio Casciano estate and the newly acquired Bolgheri estate. (Press release)

Napa Valley Vintners elects new board members

Napa Valley Vintners recently voted to elect representatives to serve on the board of directors. Incumbents Jaime Araujo, the founder of Trois Noix, and Elizabeth Vianna, the winemaker for Chimney Rock Winery, were re-elected and three new board members were elected: Malek Amrani, the founder of The Vice Wine; Ed Matovcik, the VP of public affairs for Constellation Brands; and Carlton McCoy, the CEO of Lawrence Wine Estates.

Taylor Butterfield appointed head white winemaker for Chateau Ste. Michelle

Butterfield joins Chateau Ste. Michelle with more than 10 years of winemaking experience. She began her career at Hogue Cellars in 2012 and worked her way up to the position of winemaker. After Hogue Cellars was sold to E. & J. Gallo in 2019, Butterfield continued her career as a blend supply analyst at Constellation Brands. In her new position, Butterfield will oversee the production of Ste. Michelle’s 15 different white wines. (Press release)  

Winesellers mourns the loss of their longtime partners, Melvyn and Janie Master

Teenage sweethearts, the Masters met and married young, and went on to become driving forces in the world of food and wine. They had meaningful stints in Portugal, France, and the U.S. working in the wine world, before landing in New York City to open their first of several restaurants. Through their work, they soon crossed paths with Yale Sager of Winesellers, which turned out to be the beginning of a five-decades-long partnership. Their company Master Wines, in partnership with Winesellers, found great success working with several brands from California, France, Italy, and beyond.  

Kevin Murphy promoted to EVP of wholesale and operations for Wilson Daniels

Murphy joined Wilson Daniels in 2015 and has served as the VP and SVP of operations for more than eight years. Prior to joining Wilson Daniels, Murphy spent eight years managing wholesale and national operations for Frederick Wildman & Sons. In his new role, Murphy will continue his leadership of the operations team, while also directing the bi-coastal wholesale division. (Press release)

Freeman Vineyard & Winery announces three new hires

Kevin Hinchman is named brand director; Dar Cluster is named director of hospitality; and Eiji Akaboshi is named associate winemaker. Hinchman has held key sales positions with companies such as Cliff Lede Vineyards and Patz & Hall. In his new role, Hinchman has a wide range of responsibilities, including national distribution, pricing, and events. Cluster served as the operations manager for Flowers Winery before joining Freeman. In his new role, Cluster will oversee winery visits, charity and corporate events, and wine club functions. Akaboshi joins Freeman after working at several notable wineries, such as Rombauer and Medlock Ames. (Press release)

Freeman Vineyard & Winery announces three new hires

Kevin Hinchman is named brand director; Dar Cluster is named director of hospitality; and Eiji Akaboshi is named associate winemaker. Hinchman has held key sales positions with companies such as Cliff Lede Vineyards and Patz & Hall. In his new role, Hinchman has a wide range of responsibilities, including national distribution, pricing, and events. Cluster served as the operations manager for Flowers Winery before joining Freeman. In his new role, Cluster will oversee winery visits, charity and corporate events, and wine club functions. Akaboshi joins Freeman after working at several notable wineries, such as Rombauer and Medlock Ames. (Press release)

Kim Beto named VP of fine wine and spirits business development for Terlato Wine Group

Beto joins Terlato Wine Group with more than 25 years of experience. He has worked in various parts of the wine and spirits industry, including several roles in the on-premise and distribution tiers. Most recently, Beto served as the SVP of on-premise for Southern Glazer’s in Las Vegas. In his new role, Beto will be responsible for brand and sales education and training, and will focus his sales efforts on Terlato’s luxury portfolio. (Press release)

Shannon Coursey promoted to EVP of national sales and marketing at Wilson Daniels

Coursey has 18 years of experience working in the wine industry. She joined Wilson Daniels in 2015 as the VP of the northeast and most recently served as the SVP of national sales.  In her new role, Coursey will continue to skillfully lead the sales team while also lending her insights to the marketing team in order to strategically grow the business and achieve company goals. (Press release)

Diageo makes two new leadership appointments

Sally Grimes is named CEO of North America, and Claudia Schubert is named president and COO of North America. Grimes joins Diageo with over 25 years of experience working in the food and beverage industries. Most recently, she served as the CEO for Clif Bar. Schubert has more than 20 years of beverage alcohol experience and for the last several years has led Diageo’s U.S. spirits business through the disruption of Covid and has managed the company’s growing tequila business. (Press release)

Doug Shaw confirmed as chairman of the board for WSWA

Shaw, the president of M.S. Walker, was elected as the chairman of the board for Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA). In his new role, Shaw will continue building upon important diversity and women’s leadership initiatives, elevating Access LIVE as the premier industry event, and advocating for the comprehensive federal regulation of cannabis, among other initiatives. (Press release)

Brad Mayer appointed SVP of marketing for Winebow Imports

Mayer began his wine career in 2006 with The Click Wine Group, which was acquired by Winebow in 2008. He spent nine years working on Winebow’s marketing strategy before moving on to leadership positions with Precept Wine and Union Wine Company. Back at Winebow, Mayer will lead the marketing and global brands division. (Press release)

The Wine Group welcomes three new executive team members

Jennifer Evans is named CFO; Mike Donich is named COO; and Helen Kurtz is named CMO. Evens joins The Wine Group (TWG) with more than 20 years of global finance, strategy, and commercial experience in the alcoholic beverage and consumer goods industries. Most recently, she served as CFO for the footwear company Keen. Donich has been a leader at TWG for more than 18 years. Most recently, he served TWG’s EVP of operations. Kurtz comes to TWG with more than 25 years of experience as a marketing leader. Most recently, she served as the SVP and general manager for Calavo Growers. (Press release)

Jenna Bicknell named director of hospitality for Echolands Winery

Bicknell joins Walla Walla-based Echolands Winery with 16 years of hospitality experience in the region. She previously worked for Cayuse Vineyards, Walla Walla Steak Company, and Walla Walla’s Sustainable Living Center, among other places. In her new role, Bicknell will oversee all aspects of customer experience, including developing the customer experience at the new Echolands Mill Creek winery and visitor’s center. (Press release)

Jay James appointed president of Benchmark Wine Group

James, MS, joins Benchmark Wine Group with nearly four decades of experience working with fine and rare wines. He has also worked in all tiers of the trade, including on-premise, distribution, and supply-side operations. In his new role, James will apply his wealth of knowledge towards Benchmark’s strategic development and daily operations. (Press release)

Stuart Boxer appointed chief financial and strategy officer for Treasury Wine Estates

Boxer joined Treasury Wine Estates in 2020 as the chief strategy and corporate development officer. He is taking over the CFO position following the departure of the current CFO, Matt Young. His previous experience includes serving in c-suite-level positions for  Dulux Group and Southern Cross Broadcasting. In his new role, Boxer will combine his existing responsibilities with the role of CFO. (Press release)

Maureen Robinson named master blender for Kentucky Owl

Robinson, who has over 45 years of experience in the whiskey industry, joins Kentucky Owl as their first female master blender. She will take over from John Rhea following his retirement. Robinson has previously worked for several Scotch whisky producers, including Johnnie Walker, The Singleton, Buchanan’s, and Old Parr. In her new role, Robinson will provide a unique perspective from Scotland to craft high-quality bourbon and rye whiskeys. (Press release)

Jenna Elie appointed brand development manager for Shand Import

Elie joins the specialty spirits importer Shand Import with an extensive background in the industry. She previously spent more than five years as a brand ambassador for the Scotch Malt Whisky Society of America. In her new role, Elie will be responsible for expanding the on- and off-premise presence of Shand Import’s portfolio of spirits, including Black Bull Scotch Whisky, Storywood Tequila, Philbert Cognac, and Indian Summer Gin, among others. (Press release)

Judd Wallenbrock named CEO of Somerston Estate

Wallenbrock joins Somerston Estate with four decades of experience in the wine industry. He has held high-level leadership positions, including serving as the president and chief executive officer of C. Mondavi & Family. In his new role, Wallenbrock will focus on elevating the winery’s two portfolios, Somerston and Priest Ranch, while emphasizing the company’s commitment to becoming Napa Valley’s next great wine estate. (Press release)

Phil Sobel promoted to SVP of sales at Allied Beverage Group

Sobel has extensive leadership experience, including several years of successful management within Allied Beverage Group (ABG). Prior to joining ABG, Sobel served in various cross-functional roles at Diageo. His promotion signifies the key position he plays in ABG’s continued growth. In his new role, Sobel will assume overall leadership responsibility across all sales divisions.

Stevie Stacionis and Josiah Baldivino put Bay Grape wine shops up for sale

As of this week, both the Napa and Oakland Bay Grape stores have been listed for sale by owners Stevie Stacionis and Josiah Baldivino through Santa Rosa Business & Commercial. Stacionis and Baldivino, who are looking to focus on new projects and their family, hope to pass the torch to a buyer who will continue to build on their shops’ initiatives around sustainability, diversity and inclusion, and wine education. (Press release)

Lobos 1707 Tequila & Mezcal announces leadership changes

Dia Simms is named executive chairwoman of the board, transitioning from her current role as CEO. Carlos Vigil, a veteran of the spirits industry, is appointed president and COO. Prior to joining Lobos 1707, Vigil spent 15 years with the executive leadership team for Southern Glazer’s, where he led the company’s commercial and digital transformation across sales, service, and eCommerce. (Press release)

Lobos 1707 Tequila & Mezcal announces leadership changes

Dia Simms is named executive chairwoman of the board, transitioning from her current role as CEO. Carlos Vigil, a veteran of the spirits industry, is appointed president and COO. Prior to joining Lobos 1707, Vigil spent 15 years with the executive leadership team for Southern Glazer’s, where he led the company’s commercial and digital transformation across sales, service, and eCommerce. (Press release)

Martine’s Wines promotes Justin Timsit and Cortney Lease

Justin Timsit is promoted to director of sales and Cortney Lease is promoted to national sales manager. Timsit joined Martine’s Wines in 2018 and most recently served as the sales manager for California. In his new role, Timsit will play a key role in enhancing customer experiences and fostering strong relationships with partners. Lease previously served as the western regional manager and will now lead the national sales distribution network. Prior to joining Martine’s in 2016, Lease managed Wild Ginger’s extensive wine program in Seattle. Lease will focus on strengthening distributor relationships and new business partnerships.

Franck Girard named AVP of sales for Monsieur Touton Selection

Girard joins Monsieur Touton Selection with over 20 years of industry experience. Most recently, Girard served as the northeast regional manager for Champagne Laurent-Perrier US. His previous experience includes working in brand management and distribution for companies such as Maison Albert Bichot, Domaine Serene, and Moet Hennessy. (Press release)

Winebow Spirits announces key leadership changes

Jessica Partington is promoted to SVP of spirits and Richard Driscoll is named head of business development for spirits. Partington joined Winebow in 2019 as the VP of wholesale spirits, east. As SVP, she will oversee the development and management of spirits sales in 14 states across the country. Driscoll, who has three decades of experience at Winebow, will focus on strengthening supplier relationships and new business partnerships. (Press release)

Angelica Lawler appointed assistant winemaker for Fox Run Vineyards

Lawler joins Fox Run Vineyards following a string of harvest experiences around the world. After spending her first harvest in Sonoma, Lawler went on to work in Australia, Oregon, South Africa, and finally New York. As the new assistant winemaker for Fox Run, Lawler will apply her diverse experience to strengthen the winemaking team. (Press release)

Todd Nelson named general manager and winemaker for Legend Napa Valley

Nelson joins Legend Napa Valley, a custom crush facility and estate winery, with experience in every aspect of the winemaking process. Nelson has worked in wineries in both California and Oregon and has held roles that span from vineyard management to bottling operations. In his new role, Nelson will be responsible for all winemaking operations as well as for the improvement and expansion of Legend Napa Valley’s facility. (Press release)

Lauren Nicholsen appointed general manager of hospitality at Wheeler Farms

Nicholsen joins Wheeler Farms, a historic Napa Valley estate purchased by the Araujo family, with more than 15 years of experience in marketing and hospitality. She has previously worked with several well-known brands, including Vineyard 29 and Cru. In her new role, Nicholsen will help bring the Wheeler Farms hospitality experience into the future. (Press release)

Marlo Gamora named New York brand ambassador for Lo-Fi Aperitifs

Gamora joins Lo-Fi Aperitifs with eight years of experience in the beverage and hospitality industries. An award-winning mixologist, Gamora has worked at several iconic establishments, including the late Sasha Petraske’s Middle Branch and Dante, one of the 50 Best Bars in the World. In his new role with Lo-Fi, Gamora will be responsible for driving brand affinity with influential bartenders and distributor partners in key markets. (Press release)

Janna Rinker promoted to VP of sales for DeLille Cellars

Rinker joined DeLille Cellars in 2020 as the director of national sales. During her time in the role, she helped transform DeLille’s distribution network, including the winery’s self-distribution and export channels. In her new position, Rinker will lead the company’s sales function, driving further growth and recognition for the brand. (Press release)

Ami-Lynn Bakshi named chief executive officer for Elevated Spirits

Bakshi joins Elevated Spirits with almost 30 years of industry experience. She previously spent 21 years with Diageo, holding roles such as VP of marketing for tequila and VP of innovation for North America. Most recently, Bakshi cofounded and led two new beverage alcohol ventures, which introduced unique products and disruptive business models to the market. In her new role, Bakshi will be responsible for driving growth for Cierto Tequila. (Press release)

Neil Bernardi appointed chief operating officer for Colgin Cellars

Bernardi joins Colgin Cellars with over 20 years of experience in the wine industry. He previously spent 15 years working for The Duckhorn Portfolio, most recently serving as the vice president and general manager of Kosta Browne, Canvasback, and Goldeneye wineries. In his new role, Bernardi will oversee Colgin Cellars’ overall operations, reporting to chairwoman and founder Ann Colgin and CEO Joe Wender. (Press release)

Liz Thach, MW, named president of Wine Market Council

Thach joins the Wine Market Council (WMC) with over 20 years of industry experience. Over the course of her career, she has gained standout wine credentials and research expertise, and has developed an extensive wine industry network. She will succeed current WMC president Dale Stratton, who served in the role for three and a half years. As the new president, Thach will oversee the organization’s mission to provide comprehensive market research on U.S. wine consumer buying habits and attitudes. (Press release)

Chrishon Lampley named VP of the Association of African American Vintners

Lampley joins the Association of African American Vintners (AAAV) with 11 years of experience in the wine industry. As part of the leadership team, Lampley will use her skills to grow the organization, particularly in terms of fundraising and building partnerships that will help AAAV members thrive. In celebration of National Black Business Month, AAAV is also partnering with Breakthru Beverage Group on a matching grant. During the month of August, Breakthru will match every donation to AAAV’s Wine Entrepreneur Grant program, up to $10,000. (Press release)

Michael Manzo promoted to EVP and CFO of Winebow

Manzo first joined Winebow in 2012 as the director of strategic development and financial analysis. In 2016, he was promoted to VP of import business operations and in 2018, he was promoted again to SVP of finance and strategy. In his new role, Manzo will be responsible for finance, accounting, legal, and IT and will report to Dean Ferrell, Winebow’s president and CEO. (Press release)

Tommy Gaeta appointed VP of marketing and DTC for Terlato's Family Estates portfolio

Gaeta has over 10 years of experience working in marketing and brand management in the beverage alcohol industry. He spent a decade working for E. & J. Gallo in various marketing positions. Most recently, he served as the senior director of marketing and DTC at Miller Wine Company and Bien Nacido Estate. In his new position, Gaeta will be responsible for leading all brand marketing and DTC efforts for Chimney Rock, Rutherford Hill, Sanford, and Klipsun. (Press release)

Tommy Gaeta appointed VP of marketing and DTC for Terlato’s Family Estates portfolio

Gaeta has over 10 years of experience working in marketing and brand management in the beverage alcohol industry. He spent a decade working for E. & J. Gallo in various marketing positions. Most recently, he served as the senior director of marketing and DTC at Miller Wine Company and Bien Nacido Estate. In his new position, Gaeta will be responsible for leading all brand marketing and DTC efforts for Chimney Rock, Rutherford Hill, Sanford, and Klipsun. (Press release)

Andrew Haugen named head winemaker for Odette Estate Winery

Haugen joined Odette Estate Winery in 2015 as a cellar master. Over the years, he was promoted to enologist, assistant winemaker, and now head winemaker. His winemaking career began in 2012 with a harvest at Stonestreet in Sonoma County, which was followed by experiences in New Zealand, Australia, and the Willamette Valley. As head winemaker for Odette Estate Winery, Haugen will be responsible for overseeing all of the daily winemaking operations for the Odette and Adaptation labels. (Press release)

Rocky Wirtz, a principal founder of Breakthru Beverage Group, has died

Wirtz, a leader of beverage alcohol’s middle tier, passed away this week at the age of 70. He was well known as the owner of ice hockey team Chicago Blackhawks, but the beverage industry knew him best as the co-chairman and principal founder of Breakthru Beverage Group. Wirtz grew up in the beverage alcoholic industry; his father founded Wirtz Beverage in 1946 and Wirtz took over the company in 1980. Wirtz then became a principal founder of Breakthru in 2015 when Wirtz Beverage Group merged with Charmer Sunbelt Group, creating the third-largest wholesale alcohol company in North America.

Katie Lee Biegel joins Kind of Wild as partner and cofounder

Biegel is a celebrity chef, author, and television personality with a passion for food and wine. She aligns with Kind of Wild cofounders Adam and Jordan Sager on key values—sustainability and giving back to environmental causes—and feels strongly about the company’s value proposition as the first certified organic and certified vegan direct-to-consumer wine brand in the U.S. As a partner and cofounder, Biegel will help the brand accelerate their efforts to expose consumers to their top-quality, organic wines. (Press release)

Brian Rudin appointed winemaker and general manager of Echolands Winery

Rudin joins Walla Walla-based Echolands with more than 17 years of winemaking experience. Most recently, he spent nine years as the winemaker for Duckhorn Wine Company and helped the company launch its Red Mountain label, Canvasback. In his new role, Rudin will oversee winemaking operations, viticulture, team management, and hospitality for Echolands. (Press release)

Maximilien Bernardeau named cellar master and wine manager for Laurent-Perrier

After receiving the national oenologist’s diploma in 2008 in Dijon, Bernardeau went on to work in Burgundy before joining Sofralab as a consultant oenologist in Champagne. In his new role, Bernardeau will work alongside Christine Carré, the vinification manager, and Michel Fauconnet, Laurent-Perrier’s third chef de caves. (Press release)

Michael W. Thomas appointed chief financial officer for Cakebread Cellars

Thomas joins Cakebread Cellars with an extensive background in both wine and finance. He previously held senior-level financial roles for companies such as Foley Family Wines, Rutherford Wine Company, and E. & J. Gallo. In his new role, Thomas will draw on his experience to strengthen wholesale, retail, production, and distribution and grow the family-owned winery. (Press release)

Ryan Pennington named COO of L’Ecole No. 41

Pennington joins Washington’s L’Ecole No. 41 from Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, where he served as the vice president of communications and corporate affairs. He started his career in the industry 15 years ago when he joined the Washington State Wine Commission as its communications director. At L’Ecole, Pennington will oversee the winery’s yearly production, including distribution in 49 states and 11 countries. (Press release)

Bram Westenbrink named CCO of Heineken

Westenbrink is appointed as the chief commercial officer of Heineken following the retirement of James Thompson. Westenbrink joined Heineken in 2003 and since 2020 has served as the senior director of Global Heineken and Amstel Brands. As a member of the executive team, Westenbrink will accelerate the commercial implementation of Heineken’s EverGreen strategy and deliver superior balanced growth. (Press release)

Steve May named VP/general manager of the forthcoming Conecuh Ridge Distillery

May joins Conecuh Brands from Brown-Forman, where he served as the director of marketing operations for the Jack Daniel’s Distillery. In his new role, May will be responsible for both distillery operations and the visitor experience at the new, state-of-the-art facility, which is slated to open in Fall 2023. (Press release)

Paul Dolan, a California pioneer in organic and biodynamic wine, has died

Dolan passed away at the age of 72. He was best known for his work as head winemaker at Fetzer Vineyards, and for helping to develop the California Code of Sustainable Winegrowing. He was considered ahead of his time for his push to farm organically in the 1980s, long before it was fashionable. In the 1990s, Fetzer wine became one the only organic products available in the U.S. He was a true leader in his field, and went on to serve on President Clinton’s Council on Sustainability, join the board of the Regenerative Organic Alliance, and oversee the 2018 International Biodynamic Wine Conference.

Adelsheim Vineyard announces two new appointments

Rachel Smith has been appointed club manager and Nancy Vuylsteke has been named director of marketing. Smith joins Adelsheim Vineyard from Alpha Omega Winery, where she served as the wine club manager. In her new role, Smith will be responsible for enhancing member experiences. Vuylsteke has over 20 years of experience, most recently as the marketing and PR director for Cristom Vineyards. As director of marketing for Adelsheim Vineyard, Vuylsteke will lead the company’s marketing strategies, brand development, and customer engagement initiatives. (Press release)

Kimberly Bothwell appointed director of DTC and hospitality for Terlato Wine Group

Bothwell joins Terlato from Shadybrook Estate Winery, where she spent seven years working various roles in sales, marketing, and hospitality. In the newly created role, Bothwell will be responsible for leading all DTC programs and managing the regional hospitality and wine club teams. (Press release)

María del Yerro is named president of Grandes Pagos de España

Del Yerro is the cofounder of Viñedos Alonso del Yerro in Ribera del Duero, a member winery of Grandes Pagos de España. She will be the first woman to lead the Spanish association of 36 renowned single-estate vineyards. In her new role, del Yerro will be responsible for advancing the scientific and technical development of Spanish winemaking, and maximizing new ventures in tourism and education. (Press release)

Richard Schumaker named assistant winemaker for Quilceda Creek

Schumaker joins Washington-based Quilceda Creek from Santa Barbara, where he worked as a cellar master at Alma Rosa Winery before joining Dierberg & Star Lane Vineyards as cellar technician then assistant winemaker. In his new role, Schumaker will work closely with president and director of winemaking Paul Golitzin and winemaker Mark Kaigas in all aspects of winemaking. (Press release)

Cyril Brun named chef de caves for Ferrari Trento

Brun will serve as Ferrari Trento’s chef de caves following the retirement of enologist and technical director Ruben Larentis. Brun, who is a native of Champagne, joins Ferrari Trento with a deep expertise in traditional-method sparkling winemaking. Brun’s experience includes Veuve Clicquot, where he was appointed winemaker in 2000 after working for his family estate for several years. In 2015, Brun was named chef de caves for Charles Heidsieck. With his appointment at Ferrari Trento, Brun becomes the first chef de caves to work as a full-time enologist in an Italian winery. (Press release)

Bogle Family Wine announces two sales leadership appointments

Tim Hill is named the director of sales, central division, and Tara Kelly is appointed to the newly created role of director of sales trade marketing. Hill has more than 15 years of wholesale and supplier experience, and most recently served as the VP of sales at Romano Beverage. In his new role, Hill will lead a team of sales managers representing 21 states across the southwest and midwest. Kelly has 14 years of experience, most recently serving in a marketing role at Delicato Family Wines. In her new position, Kelly will leverage her experience to boost Bogle’s sales and marketing capabilities. (Press release)

David Pearson appointed executive chairman of Joseph Phelps Vineyards

Pearson joins Joseph Phelps Vineyards with over 20 years of industry experience. In particular, Pearson’s career has made him a leader in the development of luxury wines from the Napa Valley. As the executive chairman for Joseph Phelps Vineyards, Pearson will be responsible for overseeing all of the company’s operations and, together with the wider team, will develop and implement the company strategy for the portfolio in both the U.S. and abroad. (Press release)

Foley Family Wines announces changes to its sales leadership team

Crystal Crump is promoted to VP of sales, off-premise national accounts. She previously served as the senior director of off-premise national accounts, east. Crump has more than 15 years of industry sales experience, including leadership roles at E. & J. Gallo Winery and Johnson Brothers Distributing. In her new position, Crump will oversee all national account off-premise sales efforts for FFW’s portfolio. In addition to Crump’s promotion, Nick Sijan, Brandon Colpitts, and Brandon Head will expand their sales territory responsibilities in the central and southeast regions. (Press release)

Nick Pegna named global head of wine and spirits for Sotheby's

Pegna joins Sotheby’s with over 30 years of experience working across the wine and spirits industry, from retail and wholesale to private sales and consulting. His previous experience includes 23 years with Berry Bros & Rudd, and since 2021, running a fine wine brokerage and advisory firm for private clients. As the new global head of wine and spirits, Pegna will be responsible for leading the team through the next phase of exponential growth.

Nick Pegna named global head of wine and spirits for Sotheby’s

Pegna joins Sotheby’s with over 30 years of experience working across the wine and spirits industry, from retail and wholesale to private sales and consulting. His previous experience includes 23 years with Berry Bros & Rudd, and since 2021, running a fine wine brokerage and advisory firm for private clients. As the new global head of wine and spirits, Pegna will be responsible for leading the team through the next phase of exponential growth.

Michelle Schromm named executive director of Bâtonnage Forum

Schromm joins Bâtonnage Forum with over 10 years of experience working in the wine industry and a background in nonprofit management. She has been active with the Forum since it was founded in 2018, and for the past two years has helped grow its mentorship program as a level one and level two mentor. In her new role, Schromm will work closely with the board of directors and will lead a diverse group of volunteers and industry professionals to develop and oversee several community initiatives. (Press release)

Sir Ivan Menezes, Diageo’s former chief executive, has died

Industry titan Sir Ivan Menezes, best known for his skilled leadership of Diageo, passed away on June 7 at the age of 63. After an early career in sales and marketing, Menezes made a well-timed move into the beverage alcohol industry—just months before Guinness merged with Grand Metropolitan. The merger would be one the industry’s largest deals, and Menezes was tasked with overseeing the integration. Within 16 years of joining the company, which was renamed Diageo, Menezes became its chief executive.

During his 10 years as CEO, Menezes transformed Diageo into an industry powerhouse, accounting for a tenth of the U.K.’s total food and drink exports. Perhaps more importantly, Menezes transformed the company’s culture. Under his leadership, Diageo joined the top one percent of companies to earn a Double A rating for water security and climate change from the CDP, and ranked number two globally in Equileap’s 2023 Gender Equality Report. These accomplishments, in part, led Menezes to be knighted during King Charles’ first honors list earlier this year.

Yarden Wines names Walter Whyte as VP of sales for the U.S. market

Whyte joins Yarden Wines with over 20 years of industry experience. He has worked across the three-tier system for companies such as Allied Beverage Group, Whistlepig Whiskey, and Broken Shed Imports. Most recently, Whyte ran an independent consulting practice. In his new role, Whyte will serve as the lead executive for the Yarden Wines team in the U.S., overseeing all sales, promotion, and marketing efforts. (Press release)

Tony Biagi named winemaker for To Kalon Vineyard Company

Biagi joins To Kalon Vineyard Company with over 25 years of experience making quality wines in the Napa Valley. He has worked for several wineries throughout his career, including PlumpJack Estate, CADE Estate, and Duckhorn Vineyards. In his new role, Biagi will be responsible for all winemaking operations for the brand’s three wines. He will also work closely with operations director Blake Wood on strategic decisions in the vineyard. (Press release)

Betsy Andrews wins a James Beard Award for her SevenFifty Daily feature

Andrews, a contributing editor for SevenFifty Daily, won a James Beard Foundation Journalism Award in the Health and Wellness category for her piece, “How the Supreme Court Decision Exacerbated the Dire State of Bar Industry Healthcare.” This is Andrews’ first James Beard Award win, and the first win for an article published on SevenFifty Daily as well. The editorial team is thrilled that the James Beard Foundation recognized her work on this important issue. Read her piece at the link above.

Juan Muñoz-Oca appointed COO of Marchesi Antinori USA

After a brief stint as the chief winegrower for O’Neill Vintners & Distillers, Muñoz-Oca moves to Marchesi Antinori USA to serve as the company’s COO. Prior to joining O’Neill, Muñoz-Oca spent 20 years working for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, most recently serving as their chief winemaker.

John Drakeford named general manager for Grain & Barrel Spirits

Drakeford joins Grain & Barrel Spirits with 38 years of industry experience, including at the executive leadership level. He previously worked for companies such as Beam Suntory, Brown-Forman, and Seagram Americas. In his new role, Drakeford will lead Grain & Barrel’s executive team and will play an integral role in growing the company’s portfolio. (Press release)

John Drakeford named general manager for Grain & Barrel Spirits

Drakeford joins Grain & Barrel Spirits with 38 years of industry experience, including at the executive leadership level. He previously worked for companies such as Beam Suntory, Brown-Forman, and Seagram Americas. In his new role, Drakeford will lead Grain & Barrel’s executive team and will play an integral role in growing the company’s portfolio. (Press release)

Andy Lynch promoted to director of safety, quality, and sustainability at Wente Vineyards

Lynch first joined Wente Vineyards in 2006 as a lab assistant. Over the years, he was promoted to enologist, assistant winemaker, and winemaker. Most recently, he served as the head of quality, where he was responsible for creating Wente Vineyards’ quality and food safety systems and was the safety manager for the winegrowing organization. In this newly created role, Lynch will guide the brand’s overall sustainability efforts, oversee the quality control of all products, and instill a culture of safety. (Press release)

Kristina Kelley named executive director of the Washington State Wine Commission

Kelley joins the Washington State Wine Commission after more than 25 years with E. & J. Gallo Winery, where she held roles in sales, marketing, and public relations. Most recently, she served as the senior director of public relations and corporate communications. In her new role, Kelley will lead the WSWC by focusing on marketing, communications, special events, and viticulture and enology research. (Press release)

Rachel Bordes promoted to assistant winemaker at Ram’s Gate Winery

Bordes, who joined Ram’s Gate in 2020 as a harvest intern, is promoted from enologist to assistant winemaker. In her new role, Bordes will help lead winemaker Joe Nielsen with all aspects of wine production, including vineyard, cellar, and lab work. (Press release)

Tom Fantham named chief commercial officer for O'Neill Vintners & Distillers

Fantham joins O’Neill Vintners & Distillers after spending 25 years at Trinchero Family Estates. As CCO for Trinchero, Fantham played a pivotal role in establishing and implementing the e-commerce strategy and sales-enabled digital platforms. In his new role, Fantham will be responsible for leading the commercial strategy and sales plan for the consumer goods portfolio across all channels and brands. (Press release)

Tom Fantham named chief commercial officer for O’Neill Vintners & Distillers

Fantham joins O’Neill Vintners & Distillers after spending 25 years at Trinchero Family Estates. As CCO for Trinchero, Fantham played a pivotal role in establishing and implementing the e-commerce strategy and sales-enabled digital platforms. In his new role, Fantham will be responsible for leading the commercial strategy and sales plan for the consumer goods portfolio across all channels and brands. (Press release)

Clay Wesson appointed head of viticulture for Montinore Estate and Landlines Estates

Wesson has more than 15 years of experience in vineyard management and consulting, specifically around biodynamic and organic farming. Most recently, he served as the viticulturist for Willamette Valley Vineyards, where he oversaw over 500 acres of vineyards. In his new role, Wesson will oversee all of the brands’ estate vineyards, which are all certified biodynamic. He will also manage partnerships with other Willamette Valley growers to source grapes. (Press release)

James McCeney appointed winemaker for Patz & Hall

McCeney previously worked for Patz & Hall in Sonoma as an assistant winemaker from 2012 to 2013. He has also worked several harvests in regions around the world, including Burgundy, Hawke’s Bay, and Barossa Valley. Most recently, he spent the past four years making wine for Lewis Cellars in Napa Valley. In his new role, McCeney will work closely with founder and winemaker James Hall this season before fully taking over the role in 2024 when Hall transitions to winemaker emeritus. (Press release)

James McCeney appointed winemaker for Patz & Hall

McCeney previously worked for Patz & Hall in Sonoma as an assistant winemaker from 2012 to 2013. He has also worked several harvests in regions around the world, including Burgundy, Hawke’s Bay, and Barossa Valley. Most recently, he spent the past four years making wine for Lewis Cellars in Napa Valley. In his new role, McCeney will work closely with founder and winemaker James Hall this season before fully taking over the role in 2024 when Hall transitions to winemaker emeritus. (Press release)

John Reardon named executive vice president of Breakthru Pennsylvania

Reardon joins Breakthru Beverage Group from one of the company’s largest supplier partners, E. & J. Gallo Winery. Most recently, he served as Gallo’s managing director for the central region, overseeing a 60-person team responsible for driving share and revenue growth for the region. In his new role, Reardon will work to further enhance the business and operating model in Pennsylvania, while accelerating performance for the company and its partners. (Press release)

Sonoma-Cutrer announces changes to its winemaking team

After 13 years in the role, director of winemaking Michael Schroeter is retiring. Cara Morrison, the current Chardonnay winemaker, is taking over as the new director of winemaking. She will be the first female in the position in the history of the winery. Finally, Zidanelia Arcidiacono, the current Pinot Noir winemaker, will take on the role of senior winemaker. (Press release)

Robert Carruthers named VP, East Region, for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates

Carruthers joins Ste. Michelle Wine Estates with over two decades of experience in the industry. Most recently, he served as the SVP for national and strategic accounts at Foley Family Wines. His previous experience includes leadership roles with Terlato Wines and E. & J. Gallo. In his new role, Carruthers will lead the company’s sales organization in the District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, New York, Ohio, and South Carolina. (Press release)

Pacific Highway Wines names Andrew Powell as director of sales, Pacific Southwest

Powell joins Pacific Highway Wines with over a decade of industry experience. He previously held roles with top companies such as E. & J. Gallo and The Wine Group. Most recently, Powell spent seven years as a director for Scheid Vineyards leading growth for central and western states. In his new role, Powell will be responsible for sales and business development across California, Nevada, and Hawaii. (Press release)

Regan Meador announces end of Southold Farm and Cellar

Meador shares via Instagram that the winery, which started in Long Island, New York, in 2012 and relocated to Texas in 2017, will begin a slow process of closing in order for the family to move to Bordeaux, France and take over another family’s wine estate. Both Southold’s New York and Texas wines were well-loved by the wine community and were served in top restaurants around the world.

Alto Adige Wines names three U.S. sommelier ambassadors

The ambassadors are Omar Lima, a sommelier at Spago in Los Angeles; Chris Struck, the beverage director for ilili restaurant in New York City; and Tiffany Tobey, the wine director at Tower Club in Dallas. Each highly qualified sommelier represents a top market for Alto Adige wine distribution. As ambassadors for Alto Adige, the sommeliers will educate and engage industry peers in order to spread knowledge and appreciation for the region’s wines in the U.S. (Press release)

Laura Becraft and Lauren Ward launch Brazen Imports & Consulting

Becraft and Ward, two industry leaders, are launching Brazen Imports & Consulting to help brands grow their business in the highly competitive beverage alcohol space. Becraft has 20 years of experience working in high-profile sales leadership roles with companies such as Patrón Spirits. Most recently, she served as the commercial operations director for 375 Park Avenue Spirits, a division of the Sazerac Company. Ward also comes from 375 Park Avenue Spirits, where she was the VP of national accounts, control states, and led the company’s extensive single barrel program. (Press release)

Laura Becraft and Lauren Ward launch Brazen Imports & Consulting

Becraft and Ward, two industry leaders, are launching Brazen Imports & Consulting to help brands grow their business in the highly competitive beverage alcohol space. Becraft has 20 years of experience working in high-profile sales leadership roles with companies such as Patrón Spirits. Most recently, she served as the commercial operations director for 375 Park Avenue Spirits, a division of the Sazerac Company. Ward also comes from 375 Park Avenue Spirits, where she was the VP of national accounts, control states, and led the company’s extensive single barrel program. (Press release)

Justin Schuchardt named associate winemaker for Ledson Winery & Vineyards

Schuchardt joined Ledson Winery & Vineyards in 2017 as assistant winemaker. He started his career in 2010 as a harvest intern at Cakebread Cellars. He went on to work two harvests at Envy Cellars before being hired by Schweiger Vineyards. In his new position, Schuchardt will play a key role in producing Ledson’s high-quality wines from some of the best vineyards in Sonoma County. (Press release)

Justin Schuchardt named associate winemaker for Ledson Winery & Vineyards

Schuchardt joined Ledson Winery & Vineyards in 2017 as assistant winemaker. He started his career in 2010 as a harvest intern at Cakebread Cellars. He went on to work two harvests at Envy Cellars before being hired by Schweiger Vineyards. In his new position, Schuchardt will play a key role in producing Ledson’s high-quality wines from some of the best vineyards in Sonoma County. (Press release)

Elizabeth Ngonzi joins the board of the Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas

Ngonzi joins the board of the CMSA with an extensive background in storytelling, leadership, and social impact. She is the founder of The International Social Impact Institute, an organization that provides training and consulting services to institutions and individuals to help them build an ecosystem of like-minded stakeholders. As a board member for the CMSA, Ngonzi will leverage her unique skill set to further the organization’s mission. (Press release)

Allison Wetsel promoted to SVP of sales for Bonterra Organic Estates

Wetsel joined Bonterra Organic Estates in 2022 as VP of sales with 20 years of experience. She previously served as the president of sales and wholesale for The Family Coppola. Most recently, she held the position of executive VP of Ranch Rider Spirits Co. As SVP of sales for Bonterra Organic Estates, Wetsel will be responsible for overseeing the company’s commercial division, Viña Concha y Toro USA, which includes all sales operations and strategy for the company. (Press release)

Marc Batchan joins Provi as SVP of strategy and finance

Marc Batchan has joined Provi as SVP of strategy and finance. Most recently, Batchan held various vice president roles at Juul Labs, where he was instrumental in the rapid growth of the company through strategic programming and operations. Prior to that, Batchan served in executive and leadership roles at Accenture, Visa, and Nvidia, and he brings decades of experience in strategy, corporate development, and general management to the ecommerce marketplace. (SevenFifty Daily is a Provi publication.)

Niki Williams named head winemaker for Cakebread Cellars

The fifth winemaker in the Napa Valley producer’s 50-year history, Williams will oversee all winemaking operations for Cakebread Cellars. She has previously held winemaking positions at the Prisoner Wine Company, Chateau St. Jean, and Merryvale. (Press release)

Infuse Spirits Group appoints Simon Burch as CEO

Burch will oversee operations for the group, develop commercial strategies, achieve revenue goals, and manage organizational structure. He will also become a major shareholder in the group, which is the parent company of Broken Barrel Whiskey Company, and join the Executive Board of Directors. He brings 20 years of experience in the spirits industry to the group, which is the parent company of Broken Barrel Whiskey Company. Most recently, Burch was the CEO of Green River Distilling in Charleson, South Carolina, and he has also held executive leadership positions at Pernod Ricard, Diageo, and Moët Hennessy. Founder and former CEO Seth Benhaim will now be the chief creative officer. (Press release)

Dale DeGroff and Ted Breaux launch two new releases from DeGroff Spirits

The cocktail expert and absinthe distiller teamed up once again to release DeGroff Bitter Aperitivo and DeGroff New World Amaro, both of which are crafted at Clear Creek Distillery in Hood River, Oregon. The products are created using natural ingredients and are designed to be suited for craft cocktails. (Press release)

Amber Beverage Group names Jessica Lanzon as commercial director for North America

Lanzon previously served as the regional sales director for Lobos 1707 Tequila. In her new role, Lanzon will develop opportunities for the company’s core brands, such as Rooster Rojo Tequila and Riga Black Balsam. She will work closely with the strategic marketing department as well as sales and distribution partners across the region. (Press release)

Terlato Wines promotes Michael McAvoy to divisional vice president, east

McAvoy first joined Terlato Wines in 2016 as a regional sales manager, but he left in 2020 to work for Executive Beverage as the national trade development director. With new experience, McAvoy rejoined Terlato in 2022 as the mid-Atlantic region manager. After excelling in the position, he now steps up to the role of divisional vice president, east, where he will serve as part of Terlato’s sales leadership team. (Press release)

Tom Spisak named CFO for Next Century Spirits

Spisak joins Next Century Spirits with over 25 years of industry experience. He spent 26 years working for Diageo in several financial roles. Most recently, he spent three years as the CFO for the craft soda company Reed’s Inc. In his new role, Spisak will be responsible for managing company costs, delivering on the company’s financial plan, and helping with overall growth and profitability. (Press release)

Guy Glaeser named executive director of Visit Walla Walla

Glaeser has over 20 years of experience working in the tourism industry. He spent 23 years working for Princess Cruises before cofounding his own tourism company, InquisiTours, in 2017. His background, and the fact that he is a Walla Walla resident, makes him uniquely able to balance the needs of residents with the creation of quality visitor experiences in the unofficial wine capitol of Washington. (Press release)

Mike Glennon appointed chief sales officer for Grain & Barrel Spirits

Glennon joins Grain & Barrel Spirits with over 25 years of industry experience. Over the course of his career, Glennon has worked to build global beverage businesses, such as Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Sidney Frank Importing, and Western Spirits Beverage Company. In his new role, Glennon will be responsible for expanding and scaling the distribution of the company’s brands both nationally and internationally. (Press release)

Mike Glennon appointed chief sales officer for Grain & Barrel Spirits

Glennon joins Grain & Barrel Spirits with over 25 years of industry experience. Over the course of his career, Glennon has worked to build global beverage businesses, such as Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Sidney Frank Importing, and Western Spirits Beverage Company. In his new role, Glennon will be responsible for expanding and scaling the distribution of the company’s brands both nationally and internationally. (Press release)

Al Scheid, the founder of Scheid Family Wines, has died

Scheid passed away last week at the age of 91. He founded Scheid Family Wines in 1972 in Monterey, California and became a pioneer in the region. In 1974, he was also a founder of the California Association of Winegrape Growers, and served as chairman and a long-time board member. In the 50 years since founding his eponymous winery, Scheid grew the company from a small grape grower to a one million-case winery. Today, the company is still in the family, run by Scheid’s children, Scott and Heidi.

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates appoints Ashleigh Sabold Lettiere as VP, independent region

Sabold Lettiere joins Ste. Michelle Wine Estates after spending the past 10 years working for Treasury Wine Estates, most recently as the VP for the northeast division. Prior to TWE, she held positions with J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines and Breakthru Beverage Group. As VP for the independent region, Sabold Lettiere will be responsible for 13 states that account for almost a quarter of Ste. Michelle’s national volume. (Press release)

Debra Crew named first female chief executive for Diageo

Crew joined Diageo in 2019 to run the North America business, the company’s largest market. In 2022, she was promoted to chief operating officer. Prior to joining Diageo, Crew held positions with several major companies, including Reynolds American, PepsiCo, and Kraft Foods. As CEO, Crew will be responsible for leading Diageo through its next phase of growth. (Press release)

Axel Heinz named CEO of Château Lascombes

Heinz spent the past 17 years working in the Bolgheri region of Tuscany. He joined Ornellaia in 2005 as winemaker, and since 2015 has served as the estate director for both Ornellaia and Masseto. Heinz also has extensive experience in Bordeaux; he grew up in the region, studied at the University of Bordeaux, and worked at several Bordeaux wineries early in his career. In his new role, Heinz will work to help Château Lascombes realize its full potential.

Conecuh Brands announces two leadership promotions

Brian Cahill is promoted to SVP of sales for open states and Michael Mosley is promoted to SVP of sales for control states. Cahill has been with Conecuh Brands for three years and previously served as the VP sales for the central region. Mosley has spent eight years with Conecuh Brands, previously serving as the VP of sales for control states. (Press release)

Ed Bello named global SVP of marketing for Catalyst Spirits

Bello joins Catalyst Spirits with 30 years of industry experience. Most recently, he served as the head of luxury for the North American division of Diageo. He has also held senior-level marketing roles with Ketel One and Smirnoff. In his new position, Bello will play a key role in growing Catalyst Spirits’ Howler Head Bourbon brand internationally in partnership with minority shareholder Campari Group. (Press release)

Chris Kajani promoted to president of Bouchaine Vineyards

Kajani joined Bouchaine Vineyards in 2015 as the company’s general manager and winemaker. Now, she assumes the role of president as Tatiana Copeland, the former president and cofounder of Bouchaine Vineyards, moves into the role of chairman. As president, Kajani will be the new face of Bouchaine within the wine community while also continuing in her role as head winemaker. (Press release)

Tim Norris appointed CEO of Folio Fine Wine Partners

Norris joins Folio Fine Wine Partners with over 30 years of industry experience. He spent the last 23 years working for Moët Hennessy USA. He worked in several areas of the business, including sales, marketing, and leadership. Most recently, he served as the managing director and SVP of estates and wines, where he oversaw the integration of Chateau d’Esclans and Joseph Phelps into the MHUSA portfolio. In his new role, Norris will be responsible for building on past successes and taking Folio to its next stage of growth. (Press release)

Skyler Jones appointed VP of sales for Freixenet Mionetto USA

Jones has more than a decade of sales experience and has held several leadership roles with top beverage companies, such as Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and Terlato Wines International. As VP of sales for Freixenet Mionetto USA, Jones will be responsible for leading the national sales team and the route-to-market strategy across all channels. (Press release)

Philip Tardy named U.S. executive vice president of sales and marketing for Gil Family Estates

Tardy joins Gil Family Estates with over 25 years of industry experience. He has held leadership roles with Terlato Wines International, Southern Glazer’s, and E. & J. Gallo Winery. Most recently, he served as the SVP for the House of Smith, where he managed both U.S. and international sales. In his new role, Tardy will oversee the full U.S. portfolio. (Press release)

Chelsea Catania named VP of sales for Blue Run Spirits

Catania joins Blue Run with almost 15 years of industry experience. She has held various sales positions with top companies, including Beam Suntory, Patrón Spirits, and Casa Dragones Tequila. Most recently, she served as the Southern Glazer’s division director, Diageo hospitality partnership at Enthuse Marketing. In her new role, Catania will leverage her industry experience and relationships to grow Blue Run’s global sales organization. (Press release)

Vanessa Conlin, MW, named global head of wine retail for Sotheby's

Conlin joins Sotheby’s with a wealth of experience across wine sales, marketing, and content. Her prior experience includes roles in sales and marketing at Dana Estates and Arietta Wines. Most recently, she served as the chief wine officer for Wine Access. In her new role, Conlin will work to strengthen Sotheby’s brick and mortar wine business and oversee its digital content and community strategy. (Press release)

Vanessa Conlin, MW, named global head of wine retail for Sotheby’s

Conlin joins Sotheby’s with a wealth of experience across wine sales, marketing, and content. Her prior experience includes roles in sales and marketing at Dana Estates and Arietta Wines. Most recently, she served as the chief wine officer for Wine Access. In her new role, Conlin will work to strengthen Sotheby’s brick and mortar wine business and oversee its digital content and community strategy. (Press release)

Stephanie Macleod promoted to director of blending, Scotch whisky at Bacardi

Macleod has 25 years of experience crafting Scotch whisky. She joined Bacardi in 1998 and became the first female master blender for Dewar’s in 2006. Most recently, she served as Bacardi’s master blender for its portfolio of Scotch whiskies. In this newly created role, Macleod will be responsible for delivering  new, curated Scotch whiskies across both the Blended and Single Malt portfolios. (Press release)

Sokol Blosser Winery announces two new appointments

Alex Sokol Blosser is named president and Robin Howell is promoted to lead winemaker. Alex, who previously ran the winemaking operation, assumes the role of president following Alison Sokol Blosser’s decision to step down. Howell, who joined Sokol Blosser in 2012 as an enologist and took over the sparkling program in 2018, steps into Alex’s previous role after several years of his mentorship. (Press release)

Shawn Conway named CEO of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates

Conway joins Ste. Michelle Wine Estates with 30 years of leadership experience across several consumer product categories. He previously spent almost 10 years at SKYY Spirits, and he most recently served as the CEO of Peet’s Coffee. In his new role, Conway will work to achieve Ste. Michelle Wine Estates’ strategic vision of sustainable and profitable growth. (Press release)

Brianne Engles promoted to head winemaker for Chamisal Vineyards

Engles, who recently completed her second harvest with Chamisal Vineyards, is promoted to head winemaker, becoming Chamisal’s first female head winemaker on the winery’s 50th anniversary. Engles previously worked for several notable wine producers, including Two Hands in South Australia, Duckhorn and Quintessa in Napa Valley, and Adelaida Cellars in Paso Robles. In her new role, Engles will be responsible for overseeing the vineyard management of the estate and producing the winery’s cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. (Press release)

Jeff Carroll appointed VP of partners and compliance for WineDirect

Carroll joins WineDirect with almost 20 years of industry experience. He has previously held senior leadership positions for several major companies, including ShipCompliant and Compli. Most recently, Carroll served as the general manager of beverage alcohol for Avalara. In his new role, Carroll will be responsible for leading the development of the integrated partner network and ensuring key relationships drive value for WineDirect’s clients and partners.

Wojciech Bońkowski MW and Joshua Grainer MW earn Master of Wine title

Bońkowski, the first MW based in Poland, is an international wine writer, market consultant, and judge. He focuses primarily on European regions, including Poland’s booming industry. Grainer, based in the U.S., is the managing director and winemaker for RdV Vineyards in Virginia, where he has worked since the inaugural 2008 vintage. There are now 416 MWs working and living around the world and 500 people that have passed the exam since it was first held in 1953. (Press release)

Lisa Clarkson appointed senior director of hospitality and consumer sales for DeLille Cellars

Clarkson joins DeLille Cellars with leadership experience in both the wine and coffee industries. Most recently, Clarkson worked for Precept Wine, where she served as the SVP of retail operations and e-commerce fulfillment. Her previous experience includes management roles at Tully’s and Starbucks. In her new role, Clarkson will oversee and lead all retail, restaurant, and event activities for DeLille. (Press release)

Keith Hammond promoted to winemaker at Emeritus Vineyards

Hammond joined Emeritus Vineyards in 2007 and since then has gained extensive experience working under three previous winemakers—Don Blackburn, Nicolas Cantacuzène, and David Lattin. Hammond will be taking over from Lattin, who is moving into a consulting position. As winemaker, Hammond will work closely with the Emeritus Vineyards leadership team to craft estate-grown Pinot Noirs from Hallberg Ranch in Russian River Valley and Pinot Hill on the Sonoma Coast. (Press release)

Juan Muñoz-Oca named chief winegrower for O’Neill Vintners & Distillers

Muñoz-Oca spent the past 20 years working for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and since 2019 has served as the chief winemaker. Originally from Mendoza, Muñoz-Oca also has experience working multiple harvests in Australia, France, and Spain. In his new role with O’Neill Vintners & Distillers, Muñoz-Oca will be responsible for all winemaking operations from grape to bottle, including overseeing grower relations and managing the company’s wineries. He will also oversee the company’s distillery. (Press release)

Juan Muñoz-Oca named chief winegrower for O’Neill Vintners & Distillers

Muñoz-Oca spent the past 20 years working for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and since 2019 has served as the chief winemaker. Originally from Mendoza, Muñoz-Oca also has experience working multiple harvests in Australia, France, and Spain. In his new role with O’Neill Vintners & Distillers, Muñoz-Oca will be responsible for all winemaking operations from grape to bottle, including overseeing grower relations and managing the company’s wineries. He will also oversee the company’s distillery. (Press release)

Ryan Prichard appointed director of winemaking for Three Sticks

Prichard, who joined Three Sticks in 2015, will take over as the director of winemaking following Bob Cabral’s move into an advisory position. Prior to joining Three Sticks, Prichard made wines for several Sonoma County wineries, including Williams Selyem, Copain Custom Crush, and Medlock Ames. In his new role, Prichard will continue to craft high-quality, estate-only Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as he and Cabral have done for the past seven years. (Press release)

Ross Dawkins named winemaker for The Mill Keeper

Dawkins joins The Mill Keeper team with a wealth of winemaking experience. He worked in several wine regions, including ​​Stellenbosch, Margaret River, and Saint-Émilion, before settling in California. Most recently, he served as the winemaker for Firstleaf in Napa Valley. As winemaker for The Mill Keeper, Dawkins will be responsible for all winemaking operations for the multi-vintage brand. (Press release)

Diana Snowden Seysses of Domaine Dujac and Priyanka French of Bâtonnage Forum seek applicants for Bâtonnage Forum’s 2023 harvest internship

Diana Snowden Seysses of Domaine Dujac has partnered with nonprofit organization Bâtonnage Forum to offer level three of Bâtonnage’s mentorship program. The program, which takes place between August and October 2023, includes a week-long introduction to Burgundy at the CFPPA in Beaune followed by approximately three weeks of harvest work at Domaine Dujac. The chosen mentee will also participate in a week-long educational experience with the esteemed François Frères cooperage, various tastings, and interactions with local industry professionals and partners around Burgundy. Interested candidates should apply online by February 20, 2023.

Spike McClure named U.S. Scotch ambassador for Marussia Beverages USA

McClure joins Marussia Beverages USA with a wealth of industry experience. He  previously held positions at Empire as well as US Concepts/MKTG, where he spent over 15 years representing Diageo’s portfolio of whiskies. In his new role, McClure will share his knowledge about Scotch and the Torabhaig, Mossburn, and Caisteal Chamuis brands, focusing on the northeast and mid-Atlantic regions. (Press release)

Korinne Munson named senior director of public relations for Winebow Imports

Munson joins Winebow Imports with over 20 years of marketing and public relations experience. She has held various senior-level roles with companies such as Clicquot Inc., J Vineyards & Winery, and LVMH. In her new position, Munson will oversee communications across the Winebow Imports portfolio. (Press release)

Andy Erickson elected board chair for Napa Valley Vintners

Erickson, a winemaker and co-owner of Favia, was elected by Napa Valley Vintners’ board of directors to serve as the board chair for 2023. In this position, Erickson hopes to bring a sense of optimism to the organization after several difficult years dealing with drought, fires, and the pandemic. (Press release)

Bridget Goeke named national sales manager for Little Peacock Imports

Goeke joins Little Peacock Imports with over six years of experience. She previously worked for Winebow selling Australian and world portfolios. She also has prior experience working as a restaurant wine buyer.

Giuseppe Benanti, the founder of the eponymous Sicilian winery, has died

Benanti, who led Sicilian wine into its new age of popularity, passed away this week at the age of 78. He began his career working in pharmaceuticals, but by the 1980s, he was ready to step into the world of wine. He recognized the potential for high-quality table wines from Mount Etna, and by 1988, purchased land on the north side of the mountain in hopes of elevating Sicilian wine.

The new winery, originally named Tenuta di Castiglione, enlisted Salvo Foti as the winemaker and consultants from Burgundy and Piedmont. The resulting wines quickly demonstrated the region’s potential. Over the next 10 years, the winery grew, experimented, and eventually relocated to Viagrande on the southeast side of the mountain, and was renamed Benanti. 

Benanti’s vision and pioneering work helped put Sicilian wine on the world stage, with the island’s indigenous varieties front and center. Bottlings such as the Etna Rosso DOC, made with Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, and the flagship Pietra Marina, made from Carricante, showcase the terroir transparency, age-worthiness, and overall quality of Mount Etna’s wines and remain benchmark examples today.

Angela McCrae seeks applicants for AAAV's Wine Entrepreneur Grant Program

Angela McCrae, the executive director of the Association of African American Vintners, is now accepting applications for the organization’s new Wine Entrepreneur Grant Program. The annual initiative will provide five $5,000 grants to Black-owned, AAAV-member businesses to positively impact their operations, marketing, or innovation efforts. Eligible applicants should apply by February 28, 2023.

Angela McCrae seeks applicants for AAAV’s Wine Entrepreneur Grant Program

Angela McCrae, the executive director of the Association of African American Vintners, is now accepting applications for the organization’s new Wine Entrepreneur Grant Program. The annual initiative will provide five $5,000 grants to Black-owned, AAAV-member businesses to positively impact their operations, marketing, or innovation efforts. Eligible applicants should apply by February 28, 2023.

Cindy Wang-Simms Joins Lobos 1707 Tequila & Mezcal as CMO

Wang-Simms brings over 20 years of industry experience to her new role as chief marketing officer (CMO) for Lobos 1707. Her previous experience includes roles at Anheuser-Busch and Heineken USA. Most recently, she spent seven years leading the Kona brand. As CMO, Wang-Simms will be responsible for brand strategy and planning, partnerships, and the development and execution of marketing and advertising initiatives. (Press release)

Cindy Wang-Simms Joins Lobos 1707 Tequila & Mezcal as CMO

Wang-Simms brings over 20 years of industry experience to her new role as chief marketing officer (CMO) for Lobos 1707. Her previous experience includes roles at Anheuser-Busch and Heineken USA. Most recently, she spent seven years leading the Kona brand. As CMO, Wang-Simms will be responsible for brand strategy and planning, partnerships, and the development and execution of marketing and advertising initiatives. (Press release)

Jo Moak appointed SVP and general counsel for Winebow

Moak joins Winebow with over 20 years of experience. Most recently, Moak served as the EVP and general counsel for the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America. In her new role, Moak will oversee all of Winebow’s legal and regulatory matters, including business agreements, state and federal compliance, and corporate concerns. 

Lisa Catanzaro named head of human resources for Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits

Catanzaro has a wealth of experience working in both human resources and the beverage alcohol industry. For the past seven years, Catanzaro has served as SVP of  human resources for the U.S. and Canada at Breakthru Beverage Group. In her new role with Deutsch Family, Catanzaro will oversee all HR functions, such as recruitment, learning and development, and compensation and benefits.

Lisa Catanzaro named head of human resources for Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits

Catanzaro has a wealth of experience working in both human resources and the beverage alcohol industry. For the past seven years, Catanzaro has served as SVP of  human resources for the U.S. and Canada at Breakthru Beverage Group. In her new role with Deutsch Family, Catanzaro will oversee all HR functions, such as recruitment, learning and development, and compensation and benefits.

Christa Rachlin promoted to VP of national accounts, off-premise, at Terlato Wines

Rachlin joined Terlato Wines in 2020 as the director of trade marketing and commercial center of excellence. Prior to joining Terlato, Rachlin held senior positions in sales, operations, and trade marketing at companies such as Diageo and Treasury Wine Estates. In her new role, Rachlin will draw from her robust experience to further strengthen the national accounts team.

Champagne Bollinger announces a new team structure

Bollinger’s restructuring follows the departure of chef de cave Gilles Descôtes and plans related to the company’s upcoming bicentenary in 2029. Denis Bunner is named chief winemaker and will be responsible for maintaining the outstanding quality of the wines; Gael Vuille is named vineyard and grape supply director, tasked with maintaining the top quality of wine supplies; and Benoît Pernod is named director of operations and will be responsible for all production operations and will oversee the bicentenary projects.

Distilled Spirits Council names a new senior leadership team

The new senior leadership team will be tasked with carrying out the organization’s ambitious 5-year strategic plan. The six new appointments include: Kendra Carroll,  chief people officer; Joe Donadoni, chief member services and business development; Sarah Fitzmaurice, chief of staff; Lisa Hawkins, chief communications and public affairs; Christine LoCascio, chief policy and strategy; and Denzel McGuire, chief federal and state government relations.

Mindy DeRohan named communications manager for the California Association of Winegrape Growers

DeRohan joins the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) with a decade of experience in both communications and agriculture. She previously served as the program manager for the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom. In her new role, DeRohan will play a key role in creating and delivering value to CAWG members and stakeholders by keeping all parties well informed.

Anu Rao named SVP of communications and sustainability for Pernod Ricard

Rao joins Pernod Ricard with over 20 years of experience in strategic communications. Her background includes roles with top companies such as Bacardi, Diageo, Heineken USA, and most recently, Moet Hennessy. In her new role, Rao will be responsible for internal, external, and strategic brand communication and for overseeing the company’s sustainability efforts. (Press release)

Michael Martini, the third-generation winemaker at Louis M. Martini, has died

Martini passed away last week at the age of 73. His grandfather founded the Louis M. Martini Winery the year after prohibition ended and the business continued under his father. Martini joined the family business in 1974 and became the head winemaker in 1977. In 2015, he retired from his winemaking position after nearly 40 years in the role. Over his career, Martini was also an active member of the Napa Valley wine community, serving as the president of the Napa Valley Vintners Association and on the boards of the American Society for Viticulture and Enology and the California Wine Institute.

Trey Wade named chief experience curator for Blue Run Spirits

Wade joins Blue Run Spirits from the Black Bourbon Society, where he spent three years as the VP of national partnerships. His experience also includes working on more than 120 barrel selections and contributing to dozens of blending projects for well-known brands. In his new role, Wade will be responsible for curating Blue Run’s first private barrel program, which kicks off in February. (Press release)

Cara Bertone named VP of sales for Nomadica Inc.

Bertone joins Nomadica from Avaline Wine, where she was responsible for sales development and brand growth. Her previous experience also includes positions with Youngs Market, Negociants Australia, and Folio Fine Wine Partners. In the newly created role, Bertone will be responsible for creating and driving a new national sales strategy and business development plan. (Press release)

Bob Robbins appointed president and COO of Provi

Robbins joins Provi with decades of industry and strategic work experience. He previously served in executive and leadership roles at Juul Labs, Constellation Brands, Beam Suntory, McKinsey & Company, and the U.S. Navy. As the new president and COO, Robbins will be responsible for overseeing Provi’s day-to-day operations and long-term growth. He will also work with the company’s leadership team to execute core initiatives around retail, distributor, and supplier programs.  (SevenFifty Daily is a Provi publication.)

Luciano Sandrone, the winemaker and owner of Sandrone winery in Barolo, has died

Sandrone passed away last week at the age of 76. He spent nearly 50 years working as a winemaker in Barolo and the last 40 years making wines under his eponymous label. His high-quality, precise Nebbiolos quickly earned him worldwide recognition and helped bring the Barolo region to the forefront of the wine world.

Alex Alvarez named chief supply chain officer for Beam Suntory

Alvarez joins Beam Suntory after 15 years working for Brown Forman, where he most recently served as the SVP, chief sustainability officer, and director of ESG. In his new role, Alvarez will be responsible for Beam Suntory’s global operations, which includes overseeing 19 distilleries and bottling plants as well as the supply chain, procurement, and quality functions. (Press release)

Campari Americas announces key leadership changes

After seven years serving as the U.S. managing director, Ugo Fiorenzo is named the managing director for the U.S. and Canada. In addition to his responsibilities for the U.S. market, Fiorenzo will now also be responsible for driving growth in the Canadian market. Melanie Batchelor, who spent three years serving as the managing director for Canada, is appointed managing director of sales and the new RARE division. (Press release)

Paula de Pano opens Rocks + Acid wine shop and tasting room in Chapel Hill, North Carolina

de Pano, who was previously the beverage and service director at The Fearrington House Inn, opened Rocks + Acid on December 7. The shop features between 350 and 500 labels from producers who make wine ethically and prioritize environmental sustainability; many come from women owners or winemakers. A quarterly wine subscription will be available, and guests can choose from around a dozen wines if they would rather drink on-site. (Press release)

Brahm Callahan, MS, Scott Leverenz, and Dan O’Brien launch wine-focused venture firm Faucet

The portfolio of proprietary wine businesses, based in Boston and Sonoma, launches with Berkeley And. Stuart, an online wine merchant featuring fine and rare wines from around the world, curated by Callahan. Faucet also has a négociant operation and has acquired O’Brien’s Gail and Doris wine labels; the trio plans to launch Where With All, a portfolio of DTC wines, this year. (Press release)

Cakebread Cellars appoints Laura Webb as vice president of marketing and sales

Webb joins the Napa Valley producer with over 20 years of executive business experience, having managed a consulting firm for the past 10 years. She previously spent a decade with Brown-Forman and has worked with Far Niente, Nickel & Nickel, Beaulieu Vineyards, McBride Sisters, Sonoma-Cutrer, and more. (Press release)

Natalie Collins named president of the California Association of Winegrape Growers

The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) board of directors has named Collins as president of the association. Collins joined CAWG in 2015 as the director of member relations and has served as interim president since June 2022, after the retirement of former president John Aguirre.

Davis Estates promotes Walter Leiva to winemaker

Leiva, formerly the associate winemaker, first joined the winemaking team for Davis Estates portfolio of wines in 2016. He joins consulting winemakers Cary Gott and Philippe Melka to oversee wine production at the family-owned Napa winery.

Lyons Brewing & Distilling Co appoints Lisa Wicker as its first CEO

Wicker brings 20 years of experience in the beverage industry and is the former president and master distiller at New York’s Widow Jane Distillery. Lyons Brewing and Distilling Co’s portfolio includes properties in the U.S. and Ireland.

Lyons Brewing & Distilling Co appoints Lisa Wicker as its first CEO

Wicker brings 20 years of experience in the beverage industry and is the former president and master distiller at New York’s Widow Jane Distillery. Lyons Brewing and Distilling Co’s portfolio includes properties in the U.S. and Ireland.

Richard Black named new CEO for Teremana Tequila

Black, most recently the former CMO at Westward Whiskey, brings over a decade of experience from Gruppo Campari. The celebrity-backed Teremana Tequila launched in March 2020 with global strategic partner and co-owner Germany’s Mast-Jägermeister, quickly becoming one of the best-known tequila brands on the market.

Juanita Duggan, former president and CEO of WSWA, has died

Duggan, who was the first female president and CEO of the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) and held the position from 1998 to 2006, died in her Washington, D.C. home on Tuesday, December 13. A skilled policymaker, Duggan used her experience leading the Domestic Policy Council under President Ronald Reagan and as the director of cabinet affairs under President George H.W. Bush to help pass the Twenty-First Amendment Enforcement Act in 2000.

Corliss promotes Katie Davis to president of wine operations

Davis, formerly the general manager of her family’s Washington wine brands, will oversee the portfolio of wineries and vineyard operations for Corliss, Tranche, Secret Squirrel, and San Juan Vineyard, along with the custom crush facility Walla Walla Wine Services. The promotion comes as part of an ongoing plan to transition the family-run business to the next generation.

Breakthru Beverage Group announces two leadership promotions

Kevin Roberts is promoted to chief commercial officer and Julian Burzynski is promoted to chief operating officer, both of which are newly created or designed positions. As CCO, Roberts will be responsible for leading Breakthru’s supplier business development team and will oversee the company’s commercial strategy. As COO, Burzynski will lead Breakthru’s customer-first execution strategy across North America.

Kit Gilbert named president of Simon Family Estate

Gilbert joins Simon Family Estate with 13 years of industry experience. She previously worked in sales and marketing for several notable wine companies, such as ADAMVS, Dana Estates’ VASO Cellars, and Paul Hobbs. In her new role, Gilbert will be responsible for brand strategy and management, growing DTC and wholesale channels, and building long-term brand growth.

Kirsten Grant Meikle appointed to WSET’s board of trustees

Meikle joins the WSET’s board of trustees as the Worshipful Company of Distillers’ representative. She will replace Allen Gibbons who is stepping down this month after four years of service. Meikle has more than 20 years of industry experience and has spent the last several years with William Grant & Sons, mostly recently serving on the procurement team.

Marshall Farrer expands his leadership role with Brown-Forman

Farrer currently serves as Brown-Forman’s president of Europe. As of January 1st, 2023, Farrer’s responsibilities will expand and his new title will be executive vice president and chief strategic growth officer. In his new expanded role, Farrer will work closely with the executive leadership team to develop key partnerships and new growth opportunities in order to help achieve the company’s short- and long-term goals.

Rachel Hamilton Peterson promoted to COO of R&D Brewing

Peterson steps into the role of COO with more than 20 years of industry experience. She has spent five years working with R&D Brewing’s marketing and operations team, most recently serving as the director of marketing. Prior to joining R & D, Peterson spent 15 years working in marketing for Anheuser-Busch. As COO, Peterson will be responsible for leading the brewery’s expansion outside of their local market in North Carolina.

Rachel Hamilton Peterson promoted to COO of R&D Brewing

Peterson steps into the role of COO with more than 20 years of industry experience. She has spent five years working with R&D Brewing’s marketing and operations team, most recently serving as the director of marketing. Prior to joining R & D, Peterson spent 15 years working in marketing for Anheuser-Busch. As COO, Peterson will be responsible for leading the brewery’s expansion outside of their local market in North Carolina.

Margaret Duckhorn, the cofounder of The Duckhorn Portfolio, has died

Margaret passed away over the weekend at the age of 83. After founding Duckhorn Vineyards with her husband in 1976, Margaret went on to be a leader in the Napa Valley wine community and beyond. As a marketing and international public relations specialist, Margaret advocated not only for Duckhorn wines, but for the broader Napa Valley region. She further advanced the industry through her work with many organizations, such as Women for WineSense, American Institute of Wine & Food, Napa Valley Vintners Association, and the California Wine Institute.

Dwayne Kratt named VP of external affairs for Johnson Brothers

Kratt joins Johnson Brothers with 20 years of experience in corporate communications and government affairs. He previously served as the government affairs representative for Diageo. His experience also includes time working in the New Jersey legislature and the U.S. Congress. In his new role, Kratt will be responsible for government affairs and legislative policy.

Allen Shoup, a champion of Washington wine, has died

Shoup passed away earlier this month at the age of 79. In the four decades since Shoup started working in the Washington wine industry, the state has grown to the second-largest wine producer in the country, and much of that development is thanks to Shoup. In 1980, he left a job with E. & J. Gallo in order to join Chateau Ste. Michelle as the head of marketing. By 1983, Shoup became president and CEO of Chateau Ste. Michelle’s parent company, Stimson Lane Vineyards and Estates. By the time he retired from the role in 2000, Shoup’s work had completely transformed the industry.

Yannick Benjamin and Heidi Turzyn open a new wine shop in Hell’s Kitchen

Benjamin, the NYC sommelier behind the East Harlem restaurant Contento, has opened a new wine shop in Hell’s Kitchen with his wife and business partner, Heidi Turzyn. The accessible space features wheelchair access and bottles displayed at eye level, and future plans include adding Braille signage and additional website accommodations.

Dan Butkus named president and CEO of Santo Spirits

Butkus joins Santo Spirits from Campari America, where he spent 14 years working in sales, most recently as the VP of national sales. Over his 20 year career, Butkus also held sales positions with Beam Wine Estates, Banfi Wines, and Barefoot Wines. In his new role, Butkus will be responsible for overseeing the company’s global portfolio, which includes a blanco and reposado Tequila, and the innovative Mezquila.

Jacques Berthomeau, creator of Vin de France, has died

Berthomeau passed away earlier this month at the age of 74. He became well known in the industry after the French Ministry of Agriculture commissioned him to write a report in 2001 to study the ways in which France could compete with New World regions amidst changing global wine demand. The report, now known as The Berthomeau Report, argued that France should sell a new type of wine: consistent, easy-to-understand wines labeled not by region, but by grape variety. In short, what would eventually become the Vin de France category in 2009.

Pedroncelli announces a series of promotions

Hipolito Cano was promoted to assistant winemaker and Umberto Cortes assumed the role of cellar and barrel master. Cano started working in vineyards over 30 years ago and gradually transitioned into winemaking. Cortes has worked for Pedroncelli for over 20 years and has been part of numerous key projects across the winey. Marcus Cano, Hipolito’s son, also joins the team as the digital marketing associate.

Julie Pedroncelli St. John named president of J. Pedroncelli Winery Inc.

Third-generation family member Pedroncelli St. John steps into the role of president following the retirement of her father, Jim Pedroncelli. Under her leadership, the winey is developing a robust agenda to modernize the company, including a renovation of the hospitality grounds and barrel building, a new eCommerce operations systems, and creating a new digital marketing role.

Rick Morrison named VP of sales for Really Good Boxed Wine

Morrison joins Really Good Boxed Wine with over 20 years of industry experience. In his previous roles, he helped launch and scale many notable brands, such as Qupé, Torbreck, Dry Creek Vineyard. In his new role, Rick will be leading efforts to expand wholesale, strategic partnerships, and niche-channel sales.

Heather Alper named managing director for Catalyst Spirits

Alper joins Catalyst Spirits from William Grant and Sons, where she previously served as the regional managing director for the U.S. and Canada. For 25 years, Alper has worked in the industry in a variety of roles, including executive roles at Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, and several sales and marketing roles at Moët Hennessy USA. In her new role, Apler will lead the Howler Head Bourbon brand and future innovation introductions in the U.S. and Canada, two of the world’s largest markets for premium spirits.

Alicia Towns Franken named executive director of Wine Unify

Franken has almost 30 years of industry experience. Most recently, she served as the VP of Archer Roose’s wine portfolio. Franken has been part of Wine Unify since its founding in 2020, previously serving as the head of membership and as a member of the board. As the executive director, Franken will be in charge of growing the organization to help it better achieve its goal of diversifying the wine industry.

Matthew Munn appointed president and COO of Frederick Wildman

Munn joined Frederick Wildman in July as the chief commercial officer. He previously spent 20 years with Southern Glazer’s holding various roles within the company. As president and COO, Munn will lead the company towards further growth while maintaining its role as a benchmark company within the industry.

Mark Malpiede named president of Ernest Vineyards

Malpiede joins Ernest Vineyards from Williams Selyem Winery, where he served as the VP of sales and marketing for 16 years. As president, Malpiede will guide the company into a new chapter, which includes the acquisition of new vineyards that have doubled the estate production of the brand.

Jessica Cyr promoted to VP of sales execution for Martignetti Companies

Cyr joined Martignetti in 2006 as a key account specialist and since then has steadily grown her roles and responsibilities within the company. Most recently, she served as the AVP of sales. In her new role, Cyr will lead the account services and category management efforts, including retail merchandising across all selling divisions.

Jessica Kogan appointed chief growth and experience officer for Vintage Wine Estates

Kogan cofounded Cameron Hughes Wine, which was acquired by Vintage Wine Estates in 2017. In 2019, Kogan was promoted to chief digital and marketing officer to grow the DTC business. As chief growth and experience officer, Kogan’s expanded responsibilities include leading the company’s digital transformation initiatives.

Alessandro Nicodemi elected chairman of the Abruzzo Wine Consortium

Nicodemi is the first private winemaker elected to lead the Consorzio Tutela Vini d’Abruzzo. He first started working at his family winery in 1997, one of the region’s historic estates that dates back to 1977. For the past six years, Nicodemi served as vice chairman of the Consorzio Vini d’Abruzzo. With Nicodemi as chairman, the Consortium will take advantage of the promotional opportunities offered by the EU and Italy’s recovery and resilience plan.

Marc Hoellinger named CEO of Roederer Collection Group’s Champagne Deutz and Delas Frères

Hoellinger will assume his new role on January 1st, when Fabrice Rosset, a 46-year veteran of the company, steps down. Hoellinger has worked in the wine and spirits industry for more than 20 years and has held leadership roles with LVMH, Glenmorangie, and most recently, Moët & Chandon. In his new role, Hoellinger will use his industry expertise to drive sustainable growth for both houses.

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates makes new leadership appointments

Russell Motz is named SVP of national accounts and Catherine Chambers is appointed VP of sales for the western region. Motz joins Ste. Michelle from RNDC, where he served as EVP of supplier business development. Chambers joins Ste. Michelle from E. & J. Gallo Winery, where she spent the last 11 years working in a variety of roles related to portfolio management. Together, they will use their experience to grow the company’s presence and customer base in key markets.

Remi Cohen of Domaine Carneros and Priyanka French of Bâtonnage Forum seek applicants for the Forum’s 2023 level three mentorship program

Remi Cohen of Domaine Carneros has partnered with nonprofit organization Bâtonnage Forum to offer level three of Bâtonnage’s mentorship program. The training program, which runs January to November of 2023, will cover all aspects of the wine business. Throughout the year, the chosen mentee will meet and learn from various department heads within the organization. Interested candidates should apply online by November 4, 2022.

Alex Innocent named SVP of sales and marketing for Don Sebastiani & Sons

Innocent joins Don Sebastiani & Sons with extensive industry experience, including leadership roles in marketing, analytics, and innovation. Most recently, he served as the director of brand marketing for The Hess Collection Winery. In his new role, Innocent will be responsible for the company’s global sales and marketing departments.

Alex Innocent named SVP of sales and marketing for Don Sebastiani & Sons

Innocent joins Don Sebastiani & Sons with extensive industry experience, including leadership roles in marketing, analytics, and innovation. Most recently, he served as the director of brand marketing for The Hess Collection Winery. In his new role, Innocent will be responsible for the company’s global sales and marketing departments.

Opus One promotes Morgan Tageson to sales and marketing manager

Tageson, who joined Opus One eight years ago, most recently served as the company’s communications manager. Previously, she worked as the marketing manager for Benchmark Wine Group. In her new role, Tageson will be responsible for managing allocations, pricing and marketing projects, and overseeing requests from salesforce, distributors, and accounts.

Nikki Smith appointed general manager of Cordant Winery

Smith joins Cordant Winery from Brecon Estate, where she previously served as the director of hospitality and headed DTC. As general manager, Smith will be responsible for the tasting room and wine club and will help define and execute the company’s growth strategy.

Andy Berman and Dave Herman join Provi’s senior leadership team

Berman joins Provi as the new SVP of strategic partnerships. Previously, Berman served on the leadership teams at Facebook, and most recently, GoPuff. In his new role, Berman will be responsible for strengthening Provi’s connections throughout the three-tier system with digital offerings for large, mid-size, and emerging suppliers. Herman joins Provi as the chief product officer and will oversee the company’s strategic vision for its product offerings. Herman brings with him a decade of experience, including leadership roles at Chewy, Amazon, and Hulu. (SevenFifty Daily is a Provi publication.)

Ste. Michelle Wine Estate announces a series of leadership changes

David Dearie, the president and CEO, has resigned. As a result, the company will realign itself into three commercial divisions, including Washington, Oregon, and California. Toby Whitmoyer will become the president of the Washington division; Amy Prosenjak will serve as the president of the Oregon division; and David Bowman will serve as president for the California division. Mike Lee is named the CFO and president of operations and supply chain.

Louise Jordan appointed director of communications for Quintessential

Jordan joins Quintessential with 20 years of experience in the wine and spirits industry. Her experience spans sales, public relations, brand management, and marketing for hundreds of brands and regions. Most recently, Jordan ran her own communications company, Last Drop Consulting. In her new role, Jordan will work closely with the owners of Quintessential to elevate the company’s public relations and marketing capabilities.

Daniel J. Leonard named president and CEO of Bronco Wine Company

Leonard has worked for Bronco Wine Company for 35 years, most recently serving as the company’s CFO. Bronco’s board of directors selected Leonard to lead the company following the passing of longtime CEO Fred Franzia. As president and CEO, Leonard will be responsible for developing multiple business units and implementing the 2023 strategic plan.

Leslie Serrero appointed international managing director for CKBG

Serrero joins CKBG after working for 10 years with the executive suite at LVMH. She served as the SVP of global marketing for Dior and most recently as the managing director for Fendi. In her new role, Serrero will be responsible for driving CKBG’s rapid international growth.

Dan Schuler-Jones joins Tonnellerie Berger & Fils as sales representative

Schuler-Jones joins Tonnellerie Berger & Fils’ U.S. team as the sales representative for the central coast. He previously worked in several wine industry positions in California, New Zealand, and Australia. Most recently, he served as winemaker for Vincent Vineyards. In his new role, Schuler-Jones will work closely with sales director Tiffany Eicholz to increase sales in the central coast.

Dan Schuler-Jones joins Tonnellerie Berger & Fils as sales representative

Schuler-Jones joins Tonnellerie Berger & Fils’ U.S. team as the sales representative for the central coast. He previously worked in several wine industry positions in California, New Zealand, and Australia. Most recently, he served as winemaker for Vincent Vineyards. In his new role, Schuler-Jones will work closely with sales director Tiffany Eicholz to increase sales in the central coast.

Ludovic Dervin named senior winemaker and general manager for Stags’ Leap Winery

Dervin joins Stags’ Leap Winery following the retirement of Christophe Paubert, the brand’s winemaker for the past 13 years. Dervin has over 20 years of winemaking experience in California. He previously worked for Hartford Court, Kendall Jackson’s Vérité, and Mumm Napa. In his new role, Dervin will be responsible for maintaining the elegance and finesse that Stags’ Leap is known for.

Bryan McCall appointed wine director for Gary's Wine and Marketplace

McCall joins Gary’s Wine and Marketplace in Napa Valley after working for four years as a sommelier at the French Laundry. He previously held sommelier positions at various California restaurants, including Gary Danko. As the wine director for Gary’s, McCall will use his hospitality background to deliver high-quality customer service and memorable guest experiences.

Bryan McCall appointed wine director for Gary’s Wine and Marketplace

McCall joins Gary’s Wine and Marketplace in Napa Valley after working for four years as a sommelier at the French Laundry. He previously held sommelier positions at various California restaurants, including Gary Danko. As the wine director for Gary’s, McCall will use his hospitality background to deliver high-quality customer service and memorable guest experiences.

Sylvie Tannhauser named hospitality manager for Cuvaison

Tannhauser has over a decade of experience in the wine and spirits industry. Since moving from France to the U.S. in 2010, she has worked for several Napa Valley wineries, including Cakebread and Domaine Chandon. In her new role, Tannhauser will manage the new tasting salon at Cuvaison Estate in Napa Valley.

Fred Franzia, the cofounder of Bronco Wine Company, has died

Franzia passed away at the age of 79. Known for sparking controversy within the California wine industry, he was also a firm believer in making wine affordable admisdt ever-rising bottle prices. After the family sold the Franzia wine brand to Coca-Cola, Franzia founded the Bronco Wine Company with his brother and cousin in 1973. The company became widely known for its Charles Shaw brand that produces Two Buck Chuck, a budget-friendly wine that has introduced scores of consumers to California wine.

Steven Urberg named director of winemaking for Purple Brands

Urberg joins Purple Brands with 25 years of winemaking experience. Most recently, he served as the director of winemaking for Gloria Ferrer Winery and WindVane Wines. In his new role, Urberg will oversee the entire Purple Brands portfolio, including Raeburn, Scattered Peaks, Avalon, and Four Vines.

BGPL USA announces a series of new appointments

Christelle Treunov is hired as an account development specialist, responsible for overseeing sales efforts in New York City, upstate New York, and Long Island. Jayson Bermond is named sales director, southeast, and will manage 15 distributors in six key markets. Marie Ardignac is appointed marketing specialist and will manage digital marketing efforts, including social media for all BGPL USA brands.

Heidi Peterson Barrett joins Elizabeth Spencer Winery as consulting winemaker

A renowned Napa Valley winemaker, Barrett joins Elizabeth Spencer Winery for the 2022 harvest to work alongside Elizabeth Spencer, who has served as the brand’s winemaker since 2010. As consulting winemaker, Barrett will aim to add balance, texture, and a new sense of style and sophistication to the collection. (Press release)

Nozomi Cruz appointed VP of sales for Tenjaku USA

Cruz joins Tenjaku USA with more than 16 years of experience in the industry. Her previous experience includes working for Japan-based Sapporo. In this newly created position, Cruz will be responsible for overseeing the development of Tenjaku’s Japanese whisky and gin portfolios. (Press Release)

Paul Grieco hosts first Summer of Riesling prom

Grieco’s well-loved seasonal bar theme ‘Summer of Riesling’ comes to a close this year with a prom on September 17. The $155 tickets include unlimited riesling, food, a DJ, an ‘80s cover band, a photo booth for obligatory prom pictures, and the crowning of a Summer of Riesling king and queen.

Garrett Hales named estate director for Burgess

Hales joins Burgess from Heitz Cellars, where he served as the hospitality manager for the newly reopened Heitz Cellar tasting salon. In his new role, Hales will be responsible for all estate operations, including hospitality, membership, and branding.

Alison Crary Rodriguez appointed winemaker for Silverado Vineyards

Rodriguez has over 25 years of experience in the wine industry. Her winemaking experience includes stints with producers such as Sterling, Beringer, and The Hess Collection. As the new winemaker for Foley Family Wines’ Silverado Vineyards, Rodriguez will be responsible for the flagship single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon wines such as GEO and SOLO.

Andrew Deitz named SVP of sales for Demeine Estates

Deitz joins Demeine Estates from Wilson Daniels, where he served as the VP of sales for the northeast division. In his new role, Deitz will lead a team of seven sales managers located across the country.

Matt Ward named winemaker for Pride Mountain Vineyards

Ward’s winemaking career began in 2010 in Dry Creek Valley. Since then, Ward has worked for several top producers such as Screaming Eagle, Craggy Range, and Atelier Melka. In his new role, Ward will work alongside Steve Pride to elevate and define the wines of Pride Mountain Vineyards.

Lauren Fremont appointed director of operations for Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley

Fremont has 20 years of experience in event planning and operations and has worked for several big names such as Thomas Keller and Daniel Boulud. As the new director of operations for Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley, Fremont will draw from her wealth of experience to help create opportunities for Dry Creek Valley and to further establish the organization as a leader in the global wine community.

Joe Rochioli Jr., champion for California Pinot Noir, has died

Rochioli passed away at the age of 88. He spent the majority of his life working on his family’s farm in the Russian River Valley. Rochioli’s particular interest in wine grapes led to experimentation with several varieties and in 1968 he planted Pinot Noir at the farm, now known as Rochioli Vineyards. In 1987, the family began to produce wines under their namesake label and they soon gained a reputation as one of the state’s best Pinot Noir producers. 

André Hugel, Alsace wine industry leader, has died

Hugel passed away at the age of 92. He was part of the 11th generation of the Hugel family, who settled in Alsace in 1632 and went on to become one of the most influential wine producers in the region. Hugel played an active role in both the family business and the wider community in Alsace, working for local museums, regional organizations, and as a public servant.

Bryan Schoen named VP of national sales for Beck Family Estates

Schoen joins Beck Family Estates with nearly 20 years of industry experience. He has worked in wine and spirits distribution for several companies, including Stoller Wine Group, Don Sebastiani and Sons, and Southern Wine and Spirits. In his new role, Schoen will leverage his distributor relationships to help Beck Family Estates grow its market share. (Press release)

Becky Wasserman and Co. seeks BIPOC applicants for 2023 symposium

The 2023 symposium will provide an educational, all-expenses-paid trip to Burgundy from February 19-24, 2023. BIPOC wine professionals living and working in the U.S., who are committed to growing their career in the wine industry but lack funds for overseas travel, are encouraged to apply. For more information, email symposium@beckywasserman.com.

Allied Beverage Group appoints Jonathan Yusen as president and CEO

Yusen joins the New Jersey wine and spirits wholesaler from William Grant & Sons, where he was most recently the chief officer, network of distribution companies; his role as president starts in November, and he will add the title of CEO in January 2023. Allied’s current president and CEO, Jeffrey Altschuler, will oversee Yusen in his new position as executive chairman. (Press release)

Infinium Spirits promotes Eric Griffin to senior vice president of sales

Griffin has worked with Infinium’s portfolio of spirits for the past seven years, most recently as the vice president of sales for the Northeast and national accounts. Prior to joining Infinium, Griffin worked at E. & J. Gallo Winery. In his new role, he will lead the U.S. sales organization for Infinium. (Press release)

Allyson Taylor named director of events for Balletto Vineyards

Before joining the Sonoma County winery, Taylor ran her own event company and has 20 years of experience in planning and managing events. She also worked for Starz Entertainment as director of events. (Press release)

Kim Kulchycki named director of marketing for Trefethen Family Vineyards

Kulchycki joins Trefethen Family Vineyards with over 20 years of experience across brand marketing, sales, and supply chain management. Her experience includes stints at top companies such as E. & J. Gallo, Constellation, Cline, and Robert Mondavi. As director of marketing, Kulchycki will use her skills to help communicate the stories behind Trefethen’s estate-grown wines. (Press release)

Russ Weis appointed president and COO of Walsh Vineyard Management

Weis joins Walsh Vineyard Management with over 30 years of industry experience. He has worked for many iconic estates such as Beaulieu Vineyards, Inglenook, and Opus One. Most recently, Weis served as president of Silverado Vineyards, where he spent 18 years directing the winery and the estate vineyards. In his new role, Weis will oversee business development and long-term planning in order to succeed in an increasingly competitive environment. (Press release)

Pete Soergel promoted to director of winemaking and vineyards at Lynmar Estate

Soergel has worked at Lynmar Estate for the past decade and has served as winemaker for the last five years. With this promotion, Soergel will now be in charge of Lynmar’s vineyard team and will oversee the farming of several vineyards, including Quail Hill Vineyard, Adam’s Vineyard, Susanna’s Vineyard, and Hessel Station Vineyard. (Press release)

Jeremiah Timm appointed winemaker for Browne Family Wines

Timm began his career at Wollersheim Vineyards in Wisconsin, where he spent eight years learning about the wine business. In 2008, he joined Kosta Browne as an intern and by 2015 he was promoted to the director of winery operations. In his new role, Timm will lead the winemaking team at Browne Family Wines, which includes CHEV and CIRQ wines. (Press release)

Phil West named VP of marketing for Conecuh Brands

West joins Conecuh Brands from E. & J. Gallo, where he helped build the spirits portfolio and oversaw brand marketing for several large wine brands. In his new role, West will utilize his industry and leadership experience to help grow and expand the Conecuh Brands portfolio. (Press release)

Andy Feuerstein appointed SVP of national accounts for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates

Feuerstein spent the past 12 years working for Red Bull North America, where he most recently served as the SVP of national accounts. As the SVP of national accounts for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates focused on on- and off-premise accounts, Feuerstein will leverage his experience to help expand the company’s presence with top customers across the country. (Press release)

Sarah Hanson Citron promoted to COO of Bricoleur Vineyards

Citron cofounded Bricoleur Vineyards with her parents two years ago. She served as the vice president of marketing during that time, but her work far exceeded the responsibilities of that role. As COO, Citron will oversee all operational aspects of the company, leading all facets of the tasting room, culinary program, hospitality, special events, and imaginative offerings. Additionally, Frances Spangler is named CFO; Christophe Richard is promoted to VP of sales and special experiences; and Nessia Flugger is named VP of DTC and hospitality. (Press release)

Sally Johnson Blum named director of winemaking for Robert Mondavi Winery

Johnson Blum joins Robert Mondavi Winery with over 20 years of winemaking experience. Most recently, Johnson Blum spent 15 years making wine for Pride Mountain Vineyards, earning two 100-point scores during her tenure. In her new role, Johnson Blum will lead a dynamic winemaking team that includes a technical team that provides strategic guidance. (Press release)

Ridge Vineyards hires Shauna Rosenblum as winemaker for Lytton Springs

As the daughter of a winemaker, Rosenblum joins Ridge Vineyards with nearly a lifetime of winemaking experience. Most recently, Rosenblum spent 14 years making wine for Rock Wall Wine Company, eventually serving as the company’s president. In her new role, Rosenblum will be responsible for all winemaking duties at the Lytton Springs winery. (Press release)

Maya Hood White promoted to winemaker at Early Mountain

White joined Early Mountain in 2014. During her tenure, White has served as vineyard manager and enologist and, most recently, associate winemaker and viticulturist. She oversees 55 acres of vineyards and leads the winery’s sparkling wine program. Given her previous breadth of experience, she has seamlessly transitioned into the lead winemaker role. (Press release)

Bouchaine Vineyards announces two new appointments

Erik Goodmanson is promoted director of operations and will be responsible for overseeing the entire Bouchaine estate. Goodmanson joined Bouchaine in 2015 as the assistant winemaker and was promoted to associate winemaker the following year. With Goodmanson’s promotion, Emily Wiemer joins the team as the assistant winemaker. Wiemer spent the past three years working as an enologist at Three Sticks Winery. (Press release)

Philippe Melka and Maayan Koschitzky named winemakers for Gamble Family Vineyards

Melka and Koschitzky, partners at the winemaking consulting firm Atelier Melka, took over as winemakers for Gamble Family Vineyards on June 1st when founding winemaker Jim Close stepped down. The new team will lead several new initiatives, including a new AVA-specific tier of wines from Oakville, Mt. Veeder, and Rutherford, as well as elevating Gamble’s flagship wine, Paramount. (Press release)

Liz Knapke appointed executive director of Walla Walla Valley Wine

Knapke joined Walla Walla Valley Wine in 2018 and served as the director of communications and marketing. Previously, she worked for Tyson Foods and the American Culinary Federation. As the executive director, Knapke will be responsible for executing the strategic plan and growing Walla Walla Valley’s reputation within the global wine community. (Press release)

Winebow announces new leadership appointments

Sean Woods is promoted to SVP of sales for the Northeast region. Woods joined Winebow in 2016 as the VP of sale for New Jersey and Delaware. Additionally, Deena Miskiel is named VP of portfolio strategy, Heritage; Francois Rousseauto is named divisional VP, Heritage East; Giovanni Caveggia is named director of Italian brand management, Heritage; and Christina Shoemakerto takes on the new role of brand manager, Italian strategy, Heritage. (Press release)

Frederique Vion promoted to head winemaker at Four Feathers Wine Services

Vion joined Four Feathers in 2012 with over 15 years of winemaking experience. She trained in France and previously made wine in Washington, Australia, and Bordeaux. As head winemaker, Vion will lead all of the company’s winemaking initiatives. To help support Vion, Casey Cobble, Gabriel Crowell, and Carly Faulk have also joined the company’s winemaking and viticulture teams.

Becky Waxman named financial planning and analysis manager for Opus One

Waxman joins Opus One as an experienced financial analyst and has worked for companies such as PricewaterhouseCoopers. In her new role, Waxman will be responsible for financial planning, financial analysis, and the development of managerial reporting, among other things.

Michael Longerbeam appointed DTC manager for Balletto Vineyards

Longerbeam joins Balletto Vineyards with a wealth of experience in the direct-to-consumer (DTC) space. He previously served as the DTC manager for Dry Creek Vineyard and was the direct marketing manager for Treasury Wine Estates. In his new role, Longerbeam will provide leadership across the full spectrum of marketing programs.

Dina Clark promoted to vice president of wholesale for Lede Family Wines

Clark joined Lede Family Wines last year as the senior director of national sales. She has over 25 years of experience in the wine industry and has worked in senior sales positions for major companies such as Terlato Wines International and Boisset Collection. In her new role, Clark will oversee domestic and international sales, as well as distribution for both Cliff Lede Vineyards and FEL Wines. (Press release)

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates announces new appointments for two winemaking teams

Stephanie Cohen is named winemaker for Col Solare following the retirement of Darel Allwine. Cohen has made wine in New Zealand, California, Australia, and Oregon before joining the Col Solare winemaking team in 2020. Leah Adint is named head winemaker for Erath, taking over from Gary Horner who is set to retire at the end of the month. Adint was the traveling winemaker for Ste. Michelle before joining the Erath team in 2021. (Press release)

Jackie Zykan steps down as master taster for Old Forester

As of July 1, Old Forester’s master taster Jackie Zykan will be stepping away to pursue other opportunities. Zykan joined the Old Forester team in 2015 and helped lead the brand’s innovation and premiumization strategy. She is the first woman in the company’s history to have her name on a bottle as part of the 117 Distillery Series, which was released in 2021. (Press release)

Josh Jensen, founder of Calera, has died

Jensen passed away at the age of 78. In 1970, after earning degrees from Yale and Oxford, Jensen’s love of wine took him on a tour of France to work with renowned producers such as Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and Domaine Dujac. Back in California, Jensen searched for the perfect limestone soils to start his own winery, eventually settling on the slopes of Mt. Harlan. The first harvest of Pinot Noir was in 1978 and the wines went on to receive critical acclaim, demonstrating the outstanding potential for California Pinot and setting off the Pinot boom that would soon follow.

Terlato Wines hires two new team members

Michael Coode joins Terlato as the winemaker for Rutherford Hill and Chris Wilder is hired as the supply chain director. Coode, who previously worked for Rombauer and E. & J. Gallo, joins Rutherford Hill on their 50th anniversary and will be responsible for setting the direction and future style of the wines as they relaunch the brand. Wilder, who has 19 years of experience in supply chain planning, will oversee procurement, inventory management, supply planning, and logistics across the organization.

Laurent Boidevezi named president of Asia for Moët Hennessy

Boidevezi will assume the role of president, Asia for Moët Hennessy after the retirement of Laurent Morel. Boidevezi joined Moët Hennessy in 2005 as the senior vice president of Veuve Clicquot and Krug. Most recently, he served as the president and regional director for travel retail for Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and private sales. As president of Asia, Boidevezi will continue Morel’s work, reporting to Jean-Marc Lacave, the executive vice president of global distribution.

César Sánchez Moral appointed CEO of González Byass

Jorge A. Grosse will step down as CEO of González Byass in December and César Sánchez Moral, the current CEO of Barón de Ley, will assume the role in 2023. Prior to his role with Barón de Ley, Sánchez Moral worked for several beverage companies such as Heineken, Schweppes, and Suntory. As CEO of González Byass, Sánchez Moral will continue the comprehensive strategic work put in place by Grosse during his 16 years with the company. (Press release)

New chair and vice chair elected to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States

Ugo Fiorenzo, the managing director at Campari America, was elected chair of DISCUS during the annual conference in New Orleans. As chair, Fiorenzo will provide strategic counsel to the association. The Board also elected Ann Mukherjee, the chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard North America, as vice chair. She is the first woman of color to assume the position. (Press release)

Jon Diaz named western U.S. sales manager for Gamble Family Vineyards

Diaz joins Gamble Family Vineyards with over 20 years of wine sales experience. He previously worked for R.H. Phillips and Middleton Family Wines. Most recently, he served as a wine sales and marketing consultant. In his new role, Diaz will oversee sales in California, Colorado, Nevada, and Arizona, and spearhead the growth of markets in Alaska, Oregon, Washington, and Utah. (Press release)

Humboldt Distillery hires two new executives

Ben Warden joins Humboldt Distillery as the VP of marketing and Jim Sweeney joins as the EVP of sales. Sweeney, an industry veteran, will lead the distillery’s sales team, which includes four California sales managers, and a field marketing manager. Warden, who has more than 15 years of marketing experience, will be in charge of accelerating the company’s marketing activities.

Wander + Ivy expands its board with two industry veterans

After closing a new round of funding, Dale Katechis and Rita Valois join Wander + Ivy’s board of directors. Valois brings extensive wine knowledge and experience in strategic planning and consumer products. Katechis, a pioneer in the craft beer sector, focuses on finding innovative ways to drive growth for emerging brands.

William Chris Wine Company announces a series of new appointments

David Oelrich is appointed the company’s first chief people officer, in charge of driving growth and culture initiatives; Skip King is named the director of culinary, responsible for food and wine pairing experiences; Valerie Elkins assumes the role of director of memberships, responsible for driving membership engagement; and Kelsey Kramer is promoted to director of education, in charge of developing educational initiatives for staff, trade, and guests.

Plata Wine Partners expands with a series of new appointments and promotions

Jessica Valenzuela joins Plata Wine Partners as the production planning manager, a newly created role where she’ll be responsible for production planning and procurement, and expanding Plata’s operations team. Shane Owens is appointed to the new post of national strategic accounts director, East, and will be responsible for expanding Plata’s East Coast presence. Additionally, Alison Crowe is promoted to VP of winemaking and Maria Janovich is promoted to director of finance and accounting.

Yohann Voutsinas promoted to director of national accounts, off-premise, at BGPL USA

Voutsinas first joined BGPL USA in 2019 as a sales manager working with both on- and off-premise accounts. In his new role, Voutsinas will be responsible for developing new relationships with off-premise accounts and growing the company’s brand placements in the U.S., which has been growing steadily in recent months.

Hollie Stephenson named distillery director for new Aviation Gin distillery and visitor's center

Stephenson joins Aviation with extensive industry experience. She previously served as head brewer for Guinness, working on research and development for new Guinness beers. In her new role, Stephenson will be responsible for overseeing the distilling and bottling operations, as well as the newly constructed visitor’s center and tasting room, which opens to the public later this year.

Hollie Stephenson named distillery director for new Aviation Gin distillery and visitor’s center

Stephenson joins Aviation with extensive industry experience. She previously served as head brewer for Guinness, working on research and development for new Guinness beers. In her new role, Stephenson will be responsible for overseeing the distilling and bottling operations, as well as the newly constructed visitor’s center and tasting room, which opens to the public later this year.

Geoff Labitzke appointed general manager of Hamel Family Wines

Labitzke, MW, joins Hamel Family Wines with more than 40 years of industry experience across fine wine marketing, sales, and education. His previous roles include director of sales for Kistler Vineyards and VP of fine wine at Young’s Market Company. In his new role, Labitzke will provide strategic guidance along with marketing and sales expertise as Hamel enters a new phase of growth.

Blue Run Spirits announces new executive appointments

Sammy Halpern is named global brand manager. Halpern joins Blue Run with 10 years of experience, most recently working as a portfolio specialist at Moët Hennessy USA. William Howe joins Blue Run as CFO. Howe joins from Amazing Brands, where he served as COO. Jon McKnight, who has served as a consultant for Blue Run since 2020, joins full-time as the Kentucky operations lead.

Euan Henderson named manager of Speyburn Distillery

Henderson is replacing Bobby Anderson who retired last month. Henderson has worked in operational roles for many leading whisky brands, such as Aberlour, Tormore, Glenallachie, and The Glenlivet. Prior to joining Speyburn, he worked as the process leader for William Grant Distilleries. In this position, Henderson will play a key role in helping the company achieve its ambitious growth plans.

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines promotes Steve Peck and Ian Herdman

Steve Peck is promoted to vice president of winemaking and Ian Herdman is promoted to vice president of production. Peck joined J. Lohr as winemaker for red wine in 2007. In his new role, Peck will oversee the full winemaking portfolio at J. Lohr. Herdman, who has over 30 years of experience in winery operations, will oversee J. Lohr’s operations at the Paso Robles and Greenfield wineries as well as the company’s winery, warehouse, and bottling operations in San Jose. (Press release)

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines promotes Steve Peck and Ian Herdman

Steve Peck is promoted to vice president of winemaking and Ian Herdman is promoted to vice president of production. Peck joined J. Lohr as winemaker for red wine in 2007. In his new role, Peck will oversee the full winemaking portfolio at J. Lohr. Herdman, who has over 30 years of experience in winery operations, will oversee J. Lohr’s operations at the Paso Robles and Greenfield wineries as well as the company’s winery, warehouse, and bottling operations in San Jose. (Press release)

John Horn appointed chief executive officer of Marussia Beverages USA

Horn joins Marussia Beverages USA with more than 20 years of industry experience. He previously spent 16 years with Beam Suntory in various leadership positions across marketing and sales. As CEO, Horn will oversee the next stage of domestic and international growth. (Press release)

Fifth-generation winegrower Niki Wente promoted to director of vineyard operations at Wente Family Estates

Wente first joined the family business in 2017 after spending three years working on viticultural projects for companies such as Quintessa and Faust. In her new role, Wente will be responsible for overseeing all farming operations and vineyard development projects for the Wente Family Estates portfolio. (Press release)

Angela Muscarella promoted to production manager at Opus One

Muscarella first joined Opus One as a production coordinator, providing support to the winemaking and production teams. In her new role, which she started in February 2022, Muscarella will be responsible for overseeing the planning and scheduling of all production supplies. She will also serve as the safety manager and be responsible for maintaining the sustainability program. (Press release)

Jack Cakebread, founder of Cakebread Cellars, has died

Jack Cakebread passed away on April 26 at the age of 92. After careers as a car mechanic and photographer, Cakebread purchased a vineyard in Napa Valley in 1972. Over the years, he built up the estate with his family, acquiring several vineyards along the way. While Cakebread Cellars makes many wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc, the estate became famous for its Chardonnay, helping to define the popular California style.

Kate McManus named VP of marketing for Far Niente Family of Wineries & Vineyards

MacManus joins Far Niente with more than 25 years of industry experience. She has experience in portfolio management and marketing, and has previously held positions with Delicato Family Vineyards and Constellation Brands. In her new role, McManus will be responsible for consumer, digital, and trade marketing for Far Niente’s portfolio of brands, including Far Niente, Nickel & Nickel, Bella Union, EnRoute, Dolce, and Post & Beam. (Press release)

Kate McManus named VP of marketing for Far Niente Family of Wineries & Vineyards

MacManus joins Far Niente with more than 25 years of industry experience. She has experience in portfolio management and marketing, and has previously held positions with Delicato Family Vineyards and Constellation Brands. In her new role, McManus will be responsible for consumer, digital, and trade marketing for Far Niente’s portfolio of brands, including Far Niente, Nickel & Nickel, Bella Union, EnRoute, Dolce, and Post & Beam. (Press release)

Travis Retherford appointed client relations manager for Memento Mori

Retherford steps into his new role with Memento Mori with more than a decade of experience. He’s worked in sales and hospitality for several Napa Valley producers such as Tank Garage, Pride, and Aonair. In his new role, Retherford will work to develop key relationships and establish the wine’s reach around the world. (Press release)

Jeff Zappelli promoted to vice president of sales for HALL Family Wines

Zappelli joined HALL Family Wines 16 years ago and has held numerous positions within the company, such as building the DTC sales organization and overseeing the wine club. In his new role, Zappelli will lead the domestic and international wholesale efforts, driving growth for the wine portfolio, which includes the brands HALL, WALT, and BACA. (Press release)

David Greenbaum named national sales director for Crown Point Vineyards

Greenbaum joins Crown Point Vineyards with extensive industry experience. He previously spent six years with Hall Family Wines leading the sales operations for California and the southeast region. As the national sales director, Greenbaum will be responsible for developing a strategic sales approach to bring Crown Point’s wines to key markets throughout the U.S. (Press release)

David S. Brown promoted to president and CEO of C. Mondavi & Family

Brown joined C. Mondavi & Family in 2017 and now has over three decades of industry experience across sales, marketing, and operational leadership. He previously held leadership positions with Pasternak Wine Imports and Treasury Wine Estates. In his new role, Brown will continue to lead the national sales team and have a seat on the Board of Directors. (Press release)

David S. Brown promoted to president and CEO of C. Mondavi & Family

Brown joined C. Mondavi & Family in 2017 and now has over three decades of industry experience across sales, marketing, and operational leadership. He previously held leadership positions with Pasternak Wine Imports and Treasury Wine Estates. In his new role, Brown will continue to lead the national sales team and have a seat on the Board of Directors. (Press release)

Industry veteran Jennifer Thomas launches Rooted Connections

Thomas, along with an advisory board of industry leaders, has launched Rooted Connections, a membership-based community dedicated to the advancement of women in the beverage alcohol industry. Through education, events, and webinars, the organization will work to foster individual growth. Tiered membership levels are also available to best accommodate different budgets and career goals. The advisory board includes several top industry leaders such as Donna Buoscio, the VP of commercial finance and strategy at Opici Family Distributing; Alicia Riley, the senior national account executive at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates; and Heidi Hinkle Vargas, the VP of on-premise at Bacardi USA. (Press release)

Jeff Smith appointed chief wine officer at Vino Vault

Smith joined Vino Vault in 2020 after they acquired his company, The Best Cellar. Smith has two decades of experience in wine investment and cellar management and has managed some of the most prestigious cellars in the country. In his new role, Smith will be responsible for guiding Vino Vault’s concierge clients on portfolio optimization. (Press release)

Brett Brockmeyer named head winemaker for Isenhower Cellars

Brockmeyer is a UC Davis graduate and has worked for several California-based wineries such as Clos Pepe Estate Winery and Vineyard, CADE Estate Winery, and PlumpJack Winery. In his new role with Isenhower Cellars, Brockmeyer will be responsible for producing hand-crafted wines from a wide range of grape varieties, including Roussanne, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. (Press release)

Erin Engels appointed VP of strategy and corporate development for Breakthru Beverage Group

Engels joins Breakthru from Sysco Corporation, where she held a senior leadership position in strategy, M&A, and sales. In her new position, Engels will play a key role in advancing the company’s strategic priorities. She will also be responsible for the development of Breakthru’s multi-year strategy supporting innovation and growth. (Press release)

Mike Gallo named director of sales for the eastern U.S. at John Anthony Family of Wines

Gallo joins John Anthony Family of Wines with over 20 years of industry experience. He’s worked in sales, business operations, and portfolio management for companies such as Banfi Vintners. In his new role, which opened after the company’s restructuring, Gallo will oversee the company’s portfolio presence in the eastern U.S., which includes brands such as JaM Cellars, John Anthony Vineyards, Serial Wines, Weather Wines, and FARM Napa Valley. (Press release)

Marty Spate named winemaker for Riboli Family Wines

Spate joins Riboli Family Wines with over 20 years of experience in winemaking, grape growing, and sourcing. Most recently, he worked for O’Neill Vintners and Distillers and Treasury Wine Estates. In his new role, Spate will support winery operations in Paso Robles and Monterey County, contributing to several brands, including Maddalena, Opaque, and Highlands 41. (Press release)

Liz Lister named national sales director for Tequila Komos

Lister, an industry veteran, has over 30 years of experience and has worked for companies such as Zonin 1821, Casa Dragones, and Stoli Group U.S.A. In this role, Lister will be responsible for managing on- and off-premise national accounts and overseeing all control states. (Press release)

Destilería Serrallés promotes Liza Cordero to master blender of Don Q Rum

Cordero has worked for Destilería Serrallés for almost two decades. As master blender, she will work alongside Silvia Santiago, the SVP of manufacturing and Maestra Ronera. In her new position, Cordero will be responsible for developing new products, ensuring quality and flavor are consistent, and working with the manufacturing team during each stage of rum production. (Press release)

Jiant appoints Eric Rogers as national accounts manager for the Southeast

Rogers joins Jiant with several years of experience. He’s held positions with Miller Brewing Company, Craft Brew Alliance, and Mike’s Hard Lemonade. Most recently, he served as the national accounts manager for Sierra Nevada. In his new position, Rogers will be responsible for leading the company’s new Southeast expansion, including Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia. (Press release)

Aubert de Villaine of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti announces his retirement

Aubert de Villaine, now 82 years old, has been the co-manager of the historic Domaine de la Romanée-Conti estate for the past 48 years. Last week, he announced his retirement from his long held position. de Villaine’s nephew, Bertrand de Villaine, will take over his position, which he’s been preparing to do for the past several years. de Villaine will remain on the estate’s advisory board.

Dan Moberg appointed general manager for Bevan Cellars

Moberg has extensive industry experience having worked in wine sales, distribution, and marketing. Most recently, he served as the general manager for another Napa Valley producer, and he’s been assisting Bevan Cellars with their branding and marketing for years, making this new appointment a natural fit. (Press release)

Derek Einberger named winemaker for Dobbes Family Estate

Einberger joins Dobbes Family Estate after 12 years at Patton Valley Vineyard. As the winemaker for Dobbes, Einberger will work with vineyards from all over Oregon, including Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley as well as Grenache Blanc, Viognier, and Syrah from Rogue Valley, for the estate’s 7,000-case production. (Press release)

David Pramuk named CEO of VinSense Technology LLC

Pramuk joins VinSense Technology LLC with 40 years of industry experience. VinSense is a precision viticulture company that analyzes vineyards at the granular level in order to provide recommendations for rootstocks, vine spacing, canopy management, among other things. As CEO, Pramuk will be responsible for overseeing VinSense’s strategic business development, partnerships, marketing, and communications, using his strong relationships to share this technology with growers of all sizes. (Press release)

Adrienne D.A. Smith promoted to general manager and partner at Parallel Napa Valley

Smith joined Parallel Napa Valley four years ago. In 2018, she was named director of hospitality and marketing and was promoted to general manager six months later. During her time with the company, Smith has overseen the marketing, hospitality, sales, and operations and has achieved significant growth for the company, prompting her further promotion to partner. (Press release)

Samuel Anderson promoted to VP of commercial excellence at Breakthru Beverage Group

Anderson first joined Breakthru Beverage Group in 2010. Prior to joining the company, he held senior positions with Diageo, Brown-Forman, and E. & J. Gallo, among others. In his new role, Anderson will be responsible for the development and implementation of Breakthru’s core commercial capabilities. He will also refine Breakthru’s commercial platforms, tools, and data investments to drive value, while ensuring alignment with Breakthru’s technology and digital strategy. (Press release)

Hill of Tara Wines appoints Alex Kanzler as winemaker

Kanzler joins Hill of Tara Wines with over 10 years of winemaking experience. He spent the past six years crafting small-production, site-specific wines for his family’s estate, Kanzler Vineyards. In his new role, Kanzler will be making wines from Bordeaux varietals sourced from the Moon Mountain District. (Press release)

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation appoints four new board members to its board of directors

The new board members include John Gakuru, the founder of Coruscent Co.; Tess Posthumus, the owner of Flying Dutchmen Cocktails and Dutch Courage; Perry Sholes, the president of Progressive HR Strategies Inc.; and Claire Warner, the cofounder of Aecorn. Each person brings a unique background, skill set, and perspective to the board, which will help the foundation better fulfill its mission of educating, advancing, and supporting the global cocktail community. (Press release)

Sarah Ferguson of Silverado Farming Company and Maura Johnson of Dana Estates seek applicants for Bâtonnage Forum level three mentorship program

Sarah Ferguson of Silverado Farming Company and Maura Johnson of Dana Estates have partnered with nonprofit organization Bâtonnage Forum to offer level three of  Bâtonnage’s mentorship program. This year’s program offers a comprehensive experience in viticulture and winemaking. The chosen mentee will work closely with the Silverado Farming Company team to learn all aspects of viticulture, research, and vineyard management. The mentee will then work with Dana Estates to learn about bottling, crush, and harvest activities. Interested candidates may apply through the online form no later than April 7, 2022.

Amici Cellars appoints Matt Courtney as consulting winemaker

Courtney has 20 years of winemaking experience and is known for crafting elegant, terroir-driven wines. He gained his experience at estates such as Marcassin and Arista Winery, as well as through his personal label, Ferren Wines. In his new role, Courtney will be responsible for the estate’s appellation and single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir portfolio, as well as for the wines of the sister brand Olema. (Press release)