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Byrd was appointed vice president and general manager of Woodward Canyon. In the role, she will lead the Walla Walla Valley winery’s efforts to expand national and direct-to-consumer sales while strengthening industry partnerships and representing the brand globally. Byrd brings more than 30 years of wine sales and leadership experience. She previously served as vice president of sales for the Estates Group at Young’s Market Co. in Washington and as vice president and general manager of Noble Wines, where she led distribution and supplier sales initiatives. Since launching her own consulting business in 2018, Byrd has advised winery owners on sustainable sales and marketing strategies.

He will oversee sustainable viticulture initiatives, elevate the estate’s ultra-premium wines and spirits, and expand production of the winery’s grape-based vodka, gin, and brandy while supporting new product development for domestic and international markets. Figgins brings decades of experience as a winemaker and master distiller, having worked with luxury wine and spirits brands including Glen Fiona, Northstar, Cave B, and Batch 206, among others.

Christen was promoted to lead Breakthru Beverage’s Wisconsin market, where he will oversee commercial strategy, operations, customer experience, and supplier partnerships. He will also focus on talent development and the company’s long-term growth strategy. Christen has been with Breakthru for 14 years, most recently serving as vice president of supplier business development. During his tenure, he has also held leadership roles including vice president of sales for Wisconsin, helping drive growth across the organization.

Pepe, a pioneering figure in Italy’s Abruzzo wine region, died at 94. He founded his estate in 1964, initially farming a 3.7-acre vineyard that had previously supplied grapes for bulk wine production. At a time when Montepulciano d’Abruzzo was largely sold in bulk or made for family consumption, Pepe championed the variety—and Trebbiano—as the foundation for age-worthy, high-quality wines. He was also among the first producers in Abruzzo to adopt biodynamic farming practices and spent decades promoting the region’s wines on the international stage.

Hirsch, founder of Hirsch Vineyards and a pioneering figure on the Sonoma Coast, died at 81. After arriving in the region in 1980, he helped shape its modern wine industry, inspiring generations of growers and winemakers. His 1,000-acre estate, including 77 acres planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, initially supplied fruit for anonymous Sonoma blends before attracting acclaimed producers that began vineyard-designating Hirsch fruit. In 2002, Hirsch launched the estate wine program while continuing to sell grapes to other wineries. The vineyard began transitioning to biodynamic farming in 2011.

Gillan was promoted to vice president of national sales at Shafer Vineyards, expanding on his previous role as vice president of Eastern sales, which he held for nearly a year. He will now oversee the Central and Western regions, unifying the winery’s national sales strategy to strengthen distributor partnerships and drive growth across the three-tier system. Gillan will also support sales across Shafer’s domestic, export, and travel retail channels, with a focus on strategic partnerships and national accounts. He will report to Nick Holms, vice president of global sales.

Yeung has been appointed CEO of Wente Family Estates after serving as interim CEO since January. During that time, he led the winery’s strategic operations, reinforcing its focus on sustainable winemaking and market innovation. Before joining the executive team, Yeung served on Wente’s advisory board. He previously held senior leadership and advisory roles at several wineries, including Realm Cellars and Kosta Browne, where he was vice president of strategy and business development. Yeung is also the author of Luxury Wine Marketing and co-host of the wine business podcast XChateau. Alongside his appointment, fifth-generation family members Aly Wente was named chief revenue officer and Karl Wente was named chief operating officer.

Thatch will retire in early August after serving three years as president of the Wine Market Council. During her tenure, she helped raise the organization’s profile and grew membership by nearly 70% through expanded media outreach and social media initiatives. She will be succeeded by Michelle Egan, founder of Egan Wine Consulting, who brings nearly three decades of experience in sales, marketing, brand strategy, and direct-to-consumer business development. Egan has held executive leadership roles at Realm Cellars and Terlato Wine Group, where she oversaw luxury wine brands as vice president of marketing and direct-to-consumer. Thatch and Egan will work together over the coming weeks to ensure a smooth leadership transition.

Lemp will lead market expansion efforts for Bernardus, drawing on her extensive knowledge of Northern California’s wine market to grow the winery’s market share, strengthen distributor partnerships, and deepen relationships with on- and off-premise accounts, particularly across the Monterey Peninsula and South Bay. She brings more than 16 years of industry experience, beginning her career as a chain sales representative with Young’s Market Co. (now RNDC). Over the years, she advanced into leadership roles, including district manager, overseeing chain merchandising teams across the South Bay, Monterey, and Carmel markets, as well as on-premise sales, where she developed accounts throughout Santa Cruz, San Jose, and the Monterey Peninsula.

Janeke Schroeder was appointed assistant winemaker at the South African winery, where she will work alongside cellar master Pieter-Niel Rossouw. Schroeder joined the Durbanville winemaking team in 2025. A graduate of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s viticulture and oenology program, she has experience at both boutique and large-scale wineries. After earning her national diploma in 2018, Schroeder joined Diemersdal Wine Estate, advancing from assistant winemaker to winemaker, and has also worked at Leeuwenkuil Family Vineyards.

Antinori has been elected president of the Primum Familiae Vini association for the 2026–27 term, succeeding Prince Robert of Luxembourg of Domaine Clarence Dillon. During her presidency, the association will focus on the theme of art, architecture, and wine, highlighting the shared values of craftsmanship, patience, and a deep connection to place. Antinori represents the 26th generation of her family’s historic wine business and serves as vice president of Marchesi Antinori alongside her sisters, Albiera and Allegra Antinori.

Gretchen Boock was appointed vice president of winemaking operations at Stoller Wine Group. She will oversee day-to-day production, working closely with vineyard and winemaking teams to manage operations from harvest through bottling while strengthening collaboration and communication across the company’s portfolio of wineries. An industry veteran, Boock brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in vineyard management, winemaking, and winery operations. Most recently, she served as the general manager of Benton-Lane Winery and previously was the chief executive officer of Dobbes Family Estate.

Silacci will retire as winemaker of Opus One following the 2026 harvest, concluding a 25-year tenure at the Napa Valley winery. He joined the estate as director of viticulture and enology before being named winemaker in 2003. During his time at Opus One, Silacci helped strengthen the estate’s vineyards through strategic replanting and acquisitions and led the development of its regenerative farming program. He will remain with the winery through the transition to his successor, with the search for a new winemaker set to begin in early 2027.

Pardy, the president and co-owner of Adirondack Winery, has been appointed to the board of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, joining a group of winery owners, grape growers, researchers, distributors, and industry leaders from across the state. As a board member, she will help provide strategic oversight and support initiatives aimed at strengthening New York’s wine and grape industries. Pardy brings more than a decade of nonprofit and industry leadership experience, including service on the board of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB. She also helped establish the Adirondack Craft Beverage Trail and the Upper Hudson Valley Wine Trail and founded the Adirondack Wine & Food Festival.

Shervene “Shev” Blackburn was appointed global director of advocacy and experience at Bacardi. In the role, she will help drive the company’s growth within the global bar and hospitality industries by integrating advocacy, bartender engagement, and guest experiences. Blackburn returns to Bacardi with more than a decade of experience at the company, where she worked from 2010 to 2022 in advocacy, marketing, and brand ambassador roles based at its Bermuda headquarters. Most recently, she served as global head of on-trade channel development and later regional head of marketing for Northern and Southern Europe at William Grant & Sons.

Doyle will oversee Midwest regional sales for Shannon Family Wines, reporting to CEO Argun Dewan. In the role, he will focus on expanding the family-owned winery’s presence across the Midwest while strengthening distributor and customer relationships. Doyle joins the company from Aquilini Family Wines, where he served as divisional sales director overseeing strategic chain accounts and wholesaler operations across the Central and Eastern U.S. He previously held leadership roles at Treasury Wine Estates and Winebow.

Suhayl Ramirez of Overshine Wine Co. and Ali Smith Story of Smith Story Wine Cellars have been appointed to the Dry Creek Valley Winegrowers’ board of directors. As board members, they will help guide the organization’s efforts to support the region’s wineries, growers, and broader community. Ramirez serves on Overshine Wine Co.’s management team, while Smith Story is president and co-founder of Smith Story Wine Cellars. They join the existing board ahead of its July meeting, when members will elect the organization’s executive committee, including president, vice president, and treasurer.

Morus was a pioneer of Oregon’s Columbia Gorge wine region, recognizing its potential in 1990 when he planted what would become Phelps Creek Vineyards on the slopes of the Hood River Valley. A respected industry leader, he served as president of the Columbia Gorge Winegrowers Association, where he helped unite growers and wineries to elevate the region’s profile. Morus also served on the boards of the Oregon Winegrowers Association and the Oregon Wine Board, including as chair of the latter, where he led its international committee.

Consenza will oversee Firstleaf’s domestic and international wine portfolio, guiding production strategy and supporting the growth of the company’s direct-to-consumer subscription business. He brings experience across both boutique and large-scale winemaking operations. Most recently, Consenza served as assistant winemaker in research at E. & J. Gallo Winery, where he also worked as an associate research winemaker and contributed to the growth of brands including Apothic Red. Earlier in his career, he held assistant winemaking roles at Tamber Bey Vineyards and Crossbarn by Paul Hobbs Winery.

Wilson will continue to lead operational growth and expansion of the brand in his new role. Wilson’s tenure at Ghost Tequila began three years ago when he was brought on to serve as the company’s chief financial officer. Prior to Ghost Tequila, Wilson served as vice president of finance and operations at Mast-Jägermeister U.S., where helped negotiate the company’s joint venture with Teremana Tequila, among other strategic initiatives. Earlier in his career, Wilson held several leadership positions at Diageo, including overseeing the development of the company’s rum distillery in St. Croix.

Broken Shed Vodka has promoted three senior leaders into newly created division vice president roles as part of an expansion of its sales organization. Andrew Dover will lead the company’s new control state division as division vice president, overseeing 17 control states. Erik Greenstein has been named division vice president, Eastern division, while Michael Bacco will serve as division vice president, Western division. All three will report to Broken Shed’s president Paul Criscuolo. The company also promoted Guy Freeze to regional manager, Midwest, and Jim Downey to regional manager, metropolitan.

Randy Hecklinski was promoted to executive vice president and managing director of National Distributing Company (NDC), reporting to chairman and CEO Jay Davis. In the role, he will focus on strengthening the company’s supplier partnerships and building high-performing teams to drive growth across the beverage alcohol industry. Hecklinski brings more than 30 years of industry experience and has held leadership positions at Trinchero Family Estates, Constellation Brands, and Pernod Ricard USA. Prior to his promotion, he served as NDC’s chief sales officer and Southeast region president.

Henry Politz will serve as director of sales for the company’s western division, following the retirement of Gary Bodine who worked in the beverage business for more than 41 years. Politz brings more than three decades of wine sales and experience to Shannon Family of Wines, having previously held leadership roles at E&J Gallo Winery, where he served as area manager for The Wine Group, region manager for Banfi Vintners, national sales director for Scheid Family Wines, and vice president of sales for Resurrection brands.

Crane, a pioneering leader in California’s wine industry, died at 77. She helped establish two of the state’s most prominent sparkling wine houses, first Gloria Ferrer, and later Domaine Carneros, where she was tapped by the Taittinger and Kopf families to launch their California sparkling wine estate in 1987. Crane went on to serve as CEO of Domaine Carneros for more than 33 years. She also played a key role in shaping Napa Valley’s hospitality model, being among the first to develop a membership-based wine club and opening the château to visitors shortly after its founding. Throughout her career, Crane was a champion for women in the wine industry, serving as a mentor and advocate for greater opportunities and leadership representation.

Vidal has been elected president of the Cava Designation of Origin (D.O.) for a four-year term, becoming the first woman to lead the organization. David Sendra was appointed vice president. Vidal will focus on strengthening Cava’s market positioning, working with D.O. leadership to address declining sales, and advancing initiatives to better protect grape growers across the region. A native of Penedès, she spent much of her career in banking, holding senior management roles before serving as chief executive officer of Vallformosa, the historic winery based in Vilobí del Penedès.

As cellar master, Boutillat will be responsible for preserving and evolving Bollinger’s signature style while helping guide the Champagne house through its next phase of growth ahead of its 200th anniversary. A native of Champagne, he has worked at several acclaimed wineries around the world, including Château Margaux and Domaine de la Solitude in France, Peter Michael Winery in California, Viu Manent in Chile, and La Motte Estate in South Africa. Boutillat currently serves as chief winemaker at Piper-Heidsieck and is expected to transition to Bollinger in October.

Williams will oversee all aspects of production for the Napa Valley winery, including management of the estate’s organic Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in Calistoga and fruit sourcing across the region. Her appointment coincides with the release of Parable Wines’ 2025 McGah Sauvignon Blanc, the first vintage produced under her technical leadership. Prior to joining Parable Wines, Williams held winemaking and vineyard management roles at several prominent Napa Valley wineries, including Pahlmeyer and Spottswood Estate. She also co-manages Zeitgeist Cellars, a winemaking consultancy and label she founded with her husband, Mark Porembski, and has advised wineries including Arrow&Branch.

Cernosek has been appointed to the newly created role, becoming the first person to hold the position at the wine and spirits company. She will oversee a team of 40 employees across winemaking and cellar operations, bourbon production, vineyard management, hospitality, marketing, sales, facilities, and a custom crush program serving more than 20 Texas wineries. Since joining Bending Branch Winery in 2018 as direct-to-consumer manager, Cernosek has advanced through the organization, most recently serving as general manager. Prior to joining the company, she was engagement director for a statewide organization with approximately 65,000 members. She has also held leadership roles on numerous association committees and nonprofit boards, including most recently as a board director of the Comfort Area Foundation.

Mouflard will succeed Laurent d’Harcourt, who is set to retire at the end of the year. He will join Champagne Pol Roger at the start of the fall harvest, beginning a three-month transition period alongside d’Harcourt. Mouflard most recently served as president of Champagne Ayala and previously held the role of general secretary at Champagne Bollinger. He brings extensive experience in the Champagne sector to the historic house.

Amanda Gleason was appointed chief sales officer, a newly created role at Blake’s Beverage Co. aimed at unifying and accelerating sales strategy across the company’s national portfolio. She will oversee national sales for Blake’s Hard Cider, Austin Eastciders, and Avid Cider Co., with a focus on expanding distributor partnerships, strengthening route-to-market execution, and driving growth in underpenetrated markets. Gleason will also lead portfolio strategy across the company’s premium, value, regional, and innovation-focused brands to support growth in emerging channels. She joins Blake’s Beverage Co. from Constellation Brands, where she served as senior vice president.

Kofler has been elected to a third term as president of the Consorzio Alto Adige Wines, where he will continue to guide the organization’s growth and global strategy. During his new term, Kofler will focus on priorities that have defined his previous presidencies, including expanding wine tourism and strengthening the connection between Alto Adige DOC wines and their terroir. He will also continue overseeing the development of Casa del Vino (House of Wine), the Consorzio’s future headquarters and cultural center, currently under construction in a historic building adjacent to Maretsch Castle in Bolzano.

Mosier joins Bronco Wine Co. as the company continues to invest in brand growth, operations, and leadership across its portfolio. She brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in the wine and consumer goods industries, having held senior and executive roles throughout her career. Most recently, Mosier served as chief supply chain officer, chief financial officer, and co-CEO of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, where she helped guide the company through a major financial restructuring and ownership transition. She also previously served as president of K Vintners/House of Smith and spent seven years at E. & J. Gallo Winery as business unit CFO, overseeing domestic and imported wine brands, vineyard and operational assets, and premium wine M&A activity.

Matt Dusi was named vice president of business operations. In the newly created role, he will oversee the Paso Robles winery’s day-to-day operations, administrative functions, and business development opportunities, working closely with the ownership group, executive leadership, winemaking and vineyard teams, as well as the finance and direct-to-consumer departments. Dusi joins the winery from Bank of the Sierra, where he served as head of commercial banking and managed a team of 40 lenders and support staff. During his 25-year career in banking and finance, he worked extensively with family-owned wine and agricultural businesses across California’s Central Coast.

Lonborg, manager of regenerative viticulture at Coastal Vineyard Care, will lead Alta Colina’s regenerative farming strategy, advancing the Paso Robles winery’s focus on soil health and site-driven wines. He will oversee the program alongside Coastal Vineyard Care associate Ryan Domingos and collaborate with Alta Colina owner and director of sales and marketing Maggie Tillman, as well as the winery’s winemaking team. Lonborg brings extensive experience in regenerative viticulture and played a key role in early certification efforts at Tablas Creek Vineyard.

Morgan Flatley has joined Constellation Brands’ board of directors following the retirement of former president and CEO Bill Newlands, returning the board to 12 members. Flatley currently serves as executive vice president, global chief marketing officer, and head of new business ventures at McDonald’s Corporation, bringing extensive experience in global brand building across the consumer packaged goods and food and beverage sectors. Since joining McDonald’s in 2017, she has led several high-profile marketing initiatives. Prior to McDonald’s, Flatley held senior leadership roles at PepsiCo.

Duscenne will oversee sales and market expansion efforts for the Napa Valley winery. With more than 20 years of experience in luxury and fine wine sales, he has managed premium wine portfolios across Northern California and Western U.S. markets. Most recently, Duscenne served as business development manager for Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits’ Signature Division. Prior to that, he spent 15 years as regional sales manager for Empson USA, overseeing sales and distributor partnerships across Northern California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, and Idaho.

Young succeeds Paul Mugnier, who is retiring after nearly three decades with Premium Port Wines (PPW). Mugnier will remain with the company in an advisory role to support the transition. As national sales manager, Young will oversee sales for PPW—the North American importer for Symington Family Estates—and manage brands including Graham’s, Dow’s, Cockburn’s, Vesuvio, and Blandy’s Madeira. His priorities include strengthening distributor relationships and expanding the company’s presence across on- and off-premise channels. Young joins PPW from Domaine Chandon, where he served as commercial director, bringing more than 20 years of experience in the premium beverage alcohol industry.

Young will oversee strategic retail chain development across key Western markets for the family-owned winery. He joins Shannon Family Wines with extensive experience in national and regional chain account management, most recently leading strategic retail chain business for Purple Brands Wines & Spirits, where he managed distribution and commercialization for the Raeburn wine portfolio across food, liquor, drug, and convenience channels. Young also previously held roles at Bacardi USA, driving multi-channel growth for major accounts including Safeway and Total Wine.

Megan Bell will lead communications efforts for the California Association of Winegrape Growers, overseeing advocacy, media relations, and member engagement initiatives. In the role, she will manage the organization’s communications strategy, serve as a spokesperson for media inquiries and external communications, and help translate complex policy, regulatory, and economic issues affecting CAWG members, policymakers, and the public. Bell previously founded and managed Margins Wine in Santa Cruz, which she launched in 2016. She also brings hands-on winery and vineyard experience from regions including Livermore Valley, Napa, Oregon’s Willamette Valley, as well as New Zealand and France.

Dyer, a leading figure in Napa Valley’s wine industry, died at 77. Over the course of his career, he rose through the ranks from cellar worker at Bargetto Winery in Santa Cruz in 1972 to cellar foreman at Sterling Vineyards in 1976. After earning a master’s degree in enology and viticulture from UC Davis in 1986, he was promoted to winemaker at Sterling. In 1993, Dyer and his wife, Dawnine Sample, purchased a 12-acre plot on Diamond Mountain, where they planted Dyer Vineyard and later established Dyer Straits Wine Co. Throughout his career, Dyer also contributed to winemaking efforts at several wineries along the West Coast, including Frog’s Leap Winery and Meteor Vineyard in Napa Valley, as well as Burrowing Owl Estate Winery and Church & State Wines in British Columbia.

Rudd succeeds former vice president of state relations Steve Gross, who was recently appointed interim president and CEO. In the role, Rudd will oversee policy and regulatory matters in the 49 states outside California, focusing on issues that affect California wineries’ ability to operate and compete nationwide. He will also manage the Wine Institute’s five regional state relations counsels and directors. Rudd joined the Wine Institute in 2016 as central states counsel after nearly two decades working in Texas contract lobbying and international law.

Wallace is the first woman to hold the position in the Australian winery’s 67-year history. During her six years at the family-owned producer, she helped shape the wines that earned Jim Barry Wines more than 200 gold medals and awards at Australian wine shows over the past four vintages. A New Zealand native, Wallace has worked with winemaking teams in Australia, Canada, and France. In addition to her role at Jim Barry Wines, she serves as a judge for the Adelaide Royal and Melbourne Royal wine shows and is a longtime member of the Clare Valley Wine Show Committee.

Ramer succeeds president and chief executive officer Bob Funter, who led the for 18 years. Ramer will now oversee day-to-day operations while continuing to focus on commercial expansion and brand growth. A former professional baseball player, Ramer joined Kōloa as an intern in 2011 and has since advanced through the ranks. Most recently, he served as chief commercial officer, where he managed sales, trade marketing, and global channel strategy across domestic and international markets.

David Richardson was named chief executive officer, and Dan Heller was appointed chief commercial officer. Over the last four decades Richardson has held executive leadership positions across food, agriculture, and global operations. He previously served as president, chief executive officer, and co-founder of New Cold Cooperative, developing and operating large-scale automated cold chain operations across Europe, North America, and Oceania. Heller, a longtime member of Ste. Michelle’s executive management team, was promoted from his role as executive vice president of commercial sales and marketing. In his new position, he will oversee sales and marketing team strategy and collaborate with the national distribution network.

Gayle Bartscherer will oversee supplier and portfolio development across Wilson Daniels’ domestic and international markets. Her responsibilities include identifying distribution opportunities and leading supplier and portfolio strategy, as well as e-commerce and digital initiatives and cross-functional collaboration with national and wholesale divisions. Bartscherer previously held roles at Jackson Family Wines, where she rose to senior vice president of international sales and marketing. She also served as executive vice president and chief marketing and direct-to-consumer officer at The Duckhorn Portfolio. Most recently, Bartscherer was chief executive officer of LiveWine.

Barry Thompson will serve as East Region president, effective in May. Thompson, who has more than 25 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry, previously served as executive vice president of Breakthru South Carolina. In his new role, he will focus on collaboration with customers and suppliers while driving performance and execution across several of Breakthru’s largest markets. Prior to joining Breakthru, Thompson held leadership roles at Diageo, Charmer Sunbelt, and PepsiCo, where he oversaw multiple sales and distribution teams.

Mincey succeeds Kristin Taylor, with whom she co-founded the wine brand in 2020. Taylor will remain a shareholder and board member of Mom Juice. As CEO, Mincey will focus on expanding the product line and growing the brand’s retail distribution. In addition to her work with Mom Juice, Mincey is an investor and member of Golden Seeds and has invested more than $1 million in companies founded by women and people of color.

Strekas, who previously consulted for House of Mittal, will serve as winemaker across the Paso Robles–based company’s portfolio, overseeing production of LXV Wine, Meso, and Maison Mittal. Prior to consulting for House of Mittal, Strekas spent more than a decade at ONX Wines, where he developed a viticulture program spanning 18 varieties and advanced from associate winemaker to director of winegrowing. He has also held roles at Merryvale Vineyards, Franciscan Estate, and Round Pond in Napa Valley, as well as Mollydooker in Australia.

Nethery transitions to the role from head of marketing and sales. As vice president of operations, she will oversee all aspects of the bourbon brand and its national expansion. Recognized as the country’s youngest bourbon brand owner, she studied distilling at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, and the University of Kentucky.

Sowerby will focus on driving brand growth and expanding Peachy Canon’s consumer reach, while collaborating with the team to strengthen the winery’s commitment to quality across vineyard, cellar, and hospitality operations. A 25-year veteran of the Paso Robles wine industry, Sowerby joins Peachy Canyon following positions at Adelaida Vineyards &  Winery and JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery.

Kent Mann will oversee supply chain, production, and logistics/warehouse operations at Bronco Wine Co., managing the value chain from grape intake through customer delivery. He joins the company with more than 40 years of operations and supply chain leadership experience. Mann previously served as vice president of operations at Trinchero Family Estates for 11 years and earlier held senior roles at E. & J. Gallo Winery’s Livingston facility.

Smith will succeed Brian Ball. Since joining the estate in 2018, she has served as estate director, overseeing operations at Skipstone. In her expanded role, Smith will manage day-to-day operations, working with proprietor Fahri Diner and the winemaking and vineyard teams, led by winemaker Laura Jones. Her focus will include hospitality, direct-to-consumer growth, estate operations, and financial performance. Previously, Smith held leadership roles at the luxury travel company Inspirato, where she managed high-end estate and destination experiences across Northern California.

The family-owned Napa Valley estate announced the promotions of two leaders within its winemaking team, including Jason Moravec to director of winemaking and Audrie Walsh to winemaker. Moravec, who is responsible for V. Sattui’s new brandy program and proprietary varietal blends, will continue to lead innovation at the winery, while Walsh will focus on winemaking across the St. Helena estate’s portfolio. Moravec previously served on winemaking teams at Patz and Hall, Gloria Ferrer, Franciscan, and Kim Crawford. Walsh joined V. Sattui from Treasury Wine Estates, where she made wines for labels including Beringer, Chateau St. Jean, and Beaulieu Vineyard. She has also held roles at Robert Mondavi Winery and Louis M. Martini.

Chris Pedersen was promoted to vice president of national accounts following his role as director of chains and national accounts on the west coast, a position Pedersen held for six years. In his expanded role, Pedersen will oversee the entirety of the country, leading both on- and off-premise business. Before joining Wilson Daniels, Pedersen worked for Young’s Market Company, part of the former distribution arm of Young’s Holdings. As director of national accounts-corporate hotels, he led business development, supplier management, sales execution, revenue growth, and go-to-market strategy.

Harrison was 83. A leading figure in the Washington wine industry, he cofounded Abeja with his wife in 2001, transforming a former farmstead into a destination winery known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and hospitality. He restored the Mill Creek estate vineyards surrounding Abeja and established both Heather Hill Vineyard in 2001 and Skysill Vineyard in 2016. He entered the wine business after retiring from a successful business career in Portland.

An industry veteran, O’Keefe previously served as the president of Diageo’s Asia Pacific, global travel retail, and India units, and spent seven years as the president and CEO of Diageo Africa. Prior to that, O’Keef served as the CEO of Guinness Nigeria. He steps into the role of North America CEO following the departure of Sally Grimes. A longtime Diageo executive, O’Keefe has held a range of leadership roles across the company. (Press release)

Courtney will work alongside Vance Rose, the winemaker and general manager of the newly opened Napa Valley winery. He will support organic and regenerative farming initiatives across the winery’s two estate vineyards, including the Westside Road property in the Middle Reach area of the Russian River Valley AVA and the Moon Dust vineyard in Sebastopol Hills. Before joining Harper’s Rest, Courtney was the winemaker for Arista Winery, where he worked extensively with fruit from the Westside Road estate, now owned by Harper’s Rest. He also produces wines under his own label, Ferren Wines. (Press release)

Diva Moretti Polegato and Leonardo Moretti Polegato will also join the Italian estate’s board of directors. Together, the pair will lead commercial and operational strategy, with Diva Moretti Polegato focusing on strengthening Villa Sandi’s international profile— particularly in the U.S.—while Leonardo Moretti Polegato will continue to work closely with the executive team to enhance operational efficiency. Previously, Diva Moretti Polegato served as the company’s brand ambassador and area manager across the U.S., U.K., and Mexico. Leonardo Moretti Polegato helped implement new technologies across the business.

Heather Mathias is promoted to president. Dave Wallace is appointed sommelier and director of private client experiences, and Molly Pearson is named director of brand and private client sales. The new appointments come as the Napa Valley winery aims to improve client relationships, increase national engagement, and expand the company’s position in a rapidly evolving fine wine market.

Dawson’s appointment comes ahead of the debut of Gainey’s revitalized and expanded culinary and hospitality services. Under the new role, Dawson will spearhead events and programming at the Santa Barbara, California winery throughout 2026 and beyond. Before joining Gainey, Dawson gained recognition in the events industry, curating high-profile corporate events that brought clients to the coastal region for immersive and elevated experiences.

The Bordeaux-based winemaker and consultant was 78  years old. Known as the “flying winemaker,” Rolland was among the most prominent wine consultants of his era, advising more than 150 estates globally at the height of his career in the 1990s and 2000s. A graduate of the Institut d’Oenologie in 1972, Rolland founded a wine analysis laboratory in Libourne in 1973 with his wife, Dany. Through his consulting work, he contributed to the development of wineries in regions including California and Argentina beginning in the 1980s. Rolland remained based in Bordeaux, where he was associated with his family’s estate, Château Le Bon Pasteur in Pomerol, and later Château Fontenil in Fronsac, which he and his wife purchased in 1986. He sold majority ownership of his Bordeaux properties in 2013, and in 2020 sold his majority share of the consultancy Rolland & Associés. (Press release)

Avaline announced several hires across its sales organization as the company expands its market coverage and distributor partnerships. Joe Rance was appointed sales director for the South Central region, with a focus on Texas. Mark Molina was named area sales manager in Florida, and Erin Scheetz has been appointed market manager for the New York City metro area. Marilla Pieretti was tapped for area sales manager in Chicago while Victor Lopez will work as area sales manager for Southern California, overseeing Los Angeles and San Diego sales. (Press release)

Brown-Forman has named Jim Peters executive vice president and chief financial officer. He will succeed Leanne Cunningham, who is set to retire in May. Peters joins Brown-Forman from Whirlpool, where he most recently served as executive vice president and chief financial and administrative officer, overseeing the company’s legal, IT, and corporate strategy functions. He previously held roles including vice president, corporate controller, and chief accounting officer, and also served as CFO of Whirlpool’s North American region where he managed a finance team of more than 300 people. (Press release)

McKasson will lead national sales strategy, distributor partnerships, and market development for Redwood Empire Whiskey. He will work with the brand’s leadership team to expand distribution and grow on- and off-premise sales in key U.S. and international markets. McKasson joins Purple Brands with more than two decades of experience building and leading sales organizations for premium spirits companies, including Diageo, Moët Hennessy USA, Gallo, and Western Spirits Beverage Company. (Press release)

Cantina Valpolicella Negrar has appointed Christian Zulian to oversee the winery’s technical division. He will work alongside Carlo Callari, who has been named head of the oenological department. Together, the pair will support the Italian cooperative’s technical and managerial operations and help guide future production strategy. Zulian joins Cantina Valpolicella Negrar with several years of experience in the wine industry and corporate management. Callari assumes the role after rising through the winery’s ranks and holding managerial positions at local companies. (Press release)

The nonprofit Bâtonnage Forum, which focuses on mentorship and community-building for women in the wine industry, has announced new leadership appointments and the launch of a new strategic planning initiative. Elaine Chukan Brown has been named executive director, and Tina Boyle will serve as program manager. The organization has also expanded its board of directors with the additions of Kiana Keys, Rachel DelRocco, Rebecca Hopkins, Kristina Kelly, and Ella Winje. Working with the board, Chukan Brown and Boyle will lead a strategic planning process to reassess Bâtonnage’s mission, vision, values, and long-term goals. (Press release)

Blair Guthrie has been appointed head winemaker at Turk Head Wines, succeeding the brand’s original winemaker, Kieran Robinson. Guthrie will oversee winemaking operations, including fruit allocation, at the company’s Napa Valley facility. A native of New Zealand, Guthrie began his winemaking career in California under the mentorship of Paul Hobbs before serving as assistant winemaker at BK Wines in South Australia. In addition to his role at Turk Head, he is currently the winemaker at Stewart Cellars and the founder and winemaker of Sonoma-based Guthrie Family Wines. (Press release)

Brooks Painter is transitioning to winemaker emeritus and consultant at both Napa Valley properties. He will step back from day-to-day production to focus on strategic guidance for the wineries. Painter will also lead succession planning and mentorship efforts, working alongside winemakers Peter Velleno, Jason Moravec, and Audrie Walsh as the next generation of the estates’ winemaking team takes on expanded leadership. Painter served as director of winemaking and vineyard operations at V. Sattui Winery and Castello di Amorosa for more than two decades. (Press release)

White will now oversee winemaking operations at the Portland-based gravity-flow facility, which uses a patent-pending bridge crane system and ballasted punch-down device to preserve the characteristics of each wine. Previously Amaterra’s assistant winemaker and production manager, White will continue to develop the producer’s portfolio of Willamette Valley wines. Before joining Amaterra, White served as cellar master at Apolloni Vineyards. (Press release)

Lieb will oversee growth and innovation of the additive-free tequila brand. Lieb’s appointment comes following Aguasol’s recent win at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, where it earned two Double Gold awards for Aguasol’s Blanco and Reposado. Lieb is a global beverage executive and entrepreneur with more than 20 years of experience. He previously served as the global vice president of spirits at Gallo, where he managed a portfolio including High Noon, New Amsterdam Vodka, RumChata, and Don Fulano Tequila, among others. Lieb also founded Atlantico Rum before its acquisition in 2018. (Press release)

Daniel J. Duckhorn, the co-founder of The Duckhorn Portfolio, died at the age of 87. He began his wine career when he founded Duckhorn Vineyards along with his then-wife Margaret Duckhorn and investors in 1976, releasing the winery’s first vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in 1978. Though the company sold to GI Partners in 2007, and again in 2016 to TSG Consumer Partners following their acquisition of Duckhorn, Daniel Duckhorn remained a consistent figure within The Duckhorn Portfolio serving as chairman of the board. A celebrated leader of the Napa wine community, Daniel Duckhorn achieved the ultimate feat when the company went public in 2021—the first wine company to do so in nearly two decades. (Press release)

Robert Cullins was promoted to global chief commercial officer, a newly created role to guide Disaronno International LLC owner Illva Saronno through demanding global challenges while overseeing the company’s steadily growing portfolio. Cullins will lead executives who manage the different geographic macro-areas in which the company operates. Cullins, who is currently the executive VP of Americas and CEO of Disaronno, will transition into the role on April 1. Cullins career in the beverage industry started more than 30 years ago with E&J Gallo Winery as a sales manager. He has previously held leadership positions with Shaw Ross International Importers, Maxxium Worldwide, and Stoli Group. (Press release)

Tim Brown will oversee the continued growth and strengthening of Jackson Family Wine brands. He succeeds president and CEO Rick Tigner, who is retiring following decades of leadership at the family-owned company. Brown brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across global consumer food and beverage companies and most recently served as the president and CEO of Upfield North America.

Richards will continue guiding day-to-day operations and overseeing the full winemaking program at Chappellet. He succeeds vice president of winemaking Phillip Corallo-Titus, who will transition into a senior advisory role after nearly 40 years of shaping Chappellet’s Napa Valley program. Richards joined the winery in 2006 and rose through the ranks under Corallo-Titus’s mentorship.

Airth will help guide the family-owned winery’s long-term strategy and governance. Airth brings extensive corporate board experience, including nearly a decade on the board of Mars, Incorporated, where he chaired multiple committees and helped lead numerous acquisitions and portfolio advancements from 2016 to 2025.  He was the first non-family voting board member in Mars’ 100-year history. Arith joins fellow Delicato Family Wines board members including chairman Michael Mondavi; independent directors Bruce Chizen, Clarice Turner, and Alex Ryan; and family representatives Jay Indelicato, Marie Mathews, Cheryl Indelicato, and Francis Ford Coppola.

George Simpson will oversee sales, marketing, and distribution for the Minneapolis-based craft distillery. He will work alongside the company founder and CEO Phil Steger and president Helen Hardy as part of the senior leadership team. A veteran of the spirits industry, Simpson joins Brother Justus following top positions at Heineken, La Pavia, and Spirits International Partners. (Press release)

Hodgins will lead winemaking operations for Twomey, which produces Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc for Silver Oak Cellars. In addition to overseeing vineyard and cellar production, Hodgins will collaborate with Silver Oak on sustainability issues, helping expand the company’s footprint in responsible farming and green design. With more than two decades of winemaking experience, Hodgins previously worked at several California wineries, including Fel Wines, Hanzell Vineyards, and Acacia. (Press Release)

In this newly created role, Latour will play a key role in shaping the maison’s reputation and strategic direction alongside CEO Florent Latour. A twelfth-generation member of the Latour family, the 28-year-old will oversee all aspects of brand expression and positioning across consumer marketing and trade communications. Latour joined the company as the vice president in 2023 and is the first woman of the Latour family to hold an executive position. (Press release)

Sabold has more than 20 years of experience in sales and distributor management. She joined Ste. Michelle Wine Estates in 2023 as the VP of independent region, before moving into the role of regional VP of northeast sales. Prior to joining Ste. Michelle, Sabold served as the northeast division VP for Treasury Wine Estates. In her new role, Sabold will oversee the company’s region sales organization, working to strengthen distributor partnerships and advance the performance of Ste. Michelle brands nationwide. (Press release)

Szydlik joins Santo Spirits with extensive leadership experience in the industry. He previously served as the COO of Two Sons Imports, and prior to that he served as the president of Purity Vodka. Szydlik takes over the role from Dan Butkus, who is moving to a partner position within the company. As the new president and CEO, Szydlik will help pilot the next phase of Santo Spirits. (Press release)

Pierre Trimback passed away this week at the age of 69. A twelfth-generation winemaker, he took over as winemaker for his family’s estate in 1979. Through his leadership, he helped elevate Maison Trimbach to international acclaim. He was known for his winemaking precision and terroir-driven approach that created the recognizable and well-loved Trimbach style. He also became a leader for the region and a steward of Alsace’s wine heritage, serving as the president of the Vendanges Tardives and Sélection de Grains Nobles Committee since 2000. (Press release)

Jasprit Hanger will oversee all commercial sales leadership for Vinarchary and spearhead the company’s 2026 U.S. strategy, including consumer-centric innovation and optimistic long-term planning for the wine category. With more than 25 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry, Hanger most recently served as the general manager for the West and control states at Suntory Global Spirits. She previously held senior titles at Constellation Brands, where she managed significant revenue targets and developed relationships with key distributor partners. (Press release)

Adam Copley was appointed as the executive vice president, chief legal officer, and general counsel. Copley will oversee The Duckhorn Portfolio’s legal department, including mergers and acquisitions, alcohol and beverage trade practice, and regulatory compliance, intellectual property, and risk management strategy. A veteran of the wine and spirits industry, Copley recently served as the general counsel and head of human resources at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, where he played a key role in leading post-acquisition integration efforts. (Press release)

Spencer, the executive director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission, was given the honor by the California Association of Winegrape Growers at the Awards of Excellence reception during the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium in Sacramento, California. An instrumental figure in the growth and development of the Lodi wine industry, Spencer has worked with the Lodi Winegrape Commission for 27 years, leading programs that support more than 750 growers managing more than 80,000 vineyard acres. (Press release)

Chateau Montelena named Matthew Crafton as president, expanding his responsibilities from winemaking to managing strategic and operational guidance for the winery. Crafton will now lead long-term strategy, oversee day-to-day operations, and provide integrated leadership across the organization. Crafton’s promotion comes following more than a decade of experience at Chateau Montelena. He first joined the winery as an enologist in 2008 and was later promoted to winemaker in 2014. (Press release)

Christopher Forster-Smith, a former leader of the Department of the Treasury’s Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), was tapped to guide regulatory affairs for the fast-growing THC-infused beverage brand. In this newly created position, Forster-Smith will lead the company in developing a long-lasting regulatory framework for hemp-derived THC beverages at the federal and state levels. Forster-Smith previously managed cannabis and hemp policies for the TTB. (Press release)

Tracy Kendall is named full-time winemaker and Galen Hegarty is appointed estate director. Kendall is the co-owner and winemaker of Folly of Man in Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills, a position she will maintain in addition to her new role with L’Angolo. Hegarty was the sales director for Napa Valley’s Saintsbury Winery before joining L’Angolo in 2025. (Press release)

Oregon’s Stoller Wine Group announced several new senior management appointments across its national sales, culinary, and marketing teams. Britt Dimmick joins as the senior vice president of national sales; Jill Goodrich is appointed western regional sales manager; Megan Bowers is named executive chef; and Alexa Casebeer is appointed vice president of marketing. (Press release)

David Bowman is appointed CEO of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates; Anna Moiser is named president and CFO. Bowman, a 25-year wine industry veteran who has worked with the company for five years, takes on the new role following previous appointments including chief commercial officer and CEO of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates’s California properties. Moiser previously served as the company’s chief supply chain officer and CFO. (Press release)

John McDonnell is appointed executive chairman of the board of Ghost Tequila. McDonnell joins Ghost Tequila following a 12-year tenure at Tito’s Handmade Vodka, where he served as the managing director, international and oversaw the expansion of several North American markets to nearly 150 countries and islands and distribution in more than 700 duty free outlets globally. (Press release)

Josh Trowbridge is appointed general manager of Benovia Winery; Adolfo Hernandez is promoted to winemaker; and Megan Koolmees advances to DTC director. Trowbridge joins Benovia after serving as the CEO and general manager of Tonnellerie Ô, a premium cooperage in Northern California. Hernandez steps into the role of winemaker after working for eight years as the team’s associate winemaker. Koolmees is promoted to DTC director after three and a half years as the winery’s passionate, hands-on tasting room manager. (Press release)

Stemmler, who has worked for the Bogle family of brands for two decades, is being promoted to director of winemaking thanks to her longstanding contributions and leadership at the company. In her new role, Stemmler will continue to work alongside the VP of winemaking, Eric Aafedt, on the development and quality of all Bogle wines, and will now oversee all winemaking activities and help shape the winery’s long-term vision. (Press release)

Cornett steps into the role of VP of sales after serving as the winery’s national sales manager since 2018. Prior to joining Long Shadows, he spent seven years leading top sales teams at Republic National Distributing Company. In his new role, Cornett will lead the sales team and oversee international sales and key Pacific Northwest markets. (Press release)

Wine Institute’s board of directors has appointed Steve Gross as the interim president and CEO. The organization will continue its national search for a permanent successor to longtime president and CEO Robert P. Koch, who retired at the end of 2025. Gross steps into the role with 40 years of experience and institutional knowledge. He started working at Wine Institute in 1986, and most recently served as the vice president of state relations, overseeing public policy and advocacy efforts across 49 states outside of California. (Press release)

Ross joins Total Wine with more than 25 years of experience in retail, ecommerce, and lifestyle brands. Most recently, he served as the president of Neiman Marcus Brand and the head of NMG customer insights. He previously held leadership roles with other major companies, such as Williams Sonoma. In his new role, Ross will lead Total Wine & More into a new chapter of growth. (Press release)

Hunt joins the board of directors at The Napa Valley College Viticulture & Winery Technology Foundation with over 20 years of experience in premium wine production, vineyard management, and operational leadership. His career includes roles at Clos Pegase, Ovid, and Colgin. He also spent almost a decade as the winemaker for Anderson’s Conn Valley Vineyards and Ghost Horse, where he oversaw the production of several high-end wines. (Press release)

Koenig steps into the role of CEO of Copa Fina Wine Imports after more than a decade with the company. She will take over from founder Shelbi Herring, who will transition into the role of advisor and chairwoman of the board. Koenig has played a key role in the company’s operational foundation, team culture, and market strategy. As CEO, Koenig will guide Copa Fina into its next chapter. (Press release)

Anthony Viloria and Kimberley Cosway, two top hospitality professionals, join Ram’s Gate leadership team. Viloria, who previously led the team at Stark Reality Restaurants, joins as the senior director and will oversee all aspects of hospitality, culinary programming, and day-to-day operations. Executive chef Cosway will lead Ram’s Gate’s culinary program, using the estate’s vineyards, orchards, and gardens to create seasonally inspired culinary experiences. (Press release)

The Oregon Wine Board has appointed several new officers that will begin their tenure in January of 2026. The appointments include: Tiquette Bramlett, the founder of Henderson Ave and the cofounder and CEO of Our Legacy Harvested, will take over as board chair; Cristina Gonzales, the founder and winemaker of Gonzales Wine Company, will be the new vice chair; and Adam Ramirez, the president of Sixmile Canyon Vineyards, will continue as treasurer. (Press release)

Juergenson joins Bronco Wine Company with over 30 years of experience in the wine industry. Her varied career spans vineyards, cellars, winemaking, and leadership. At E. & J. Gallo, where Juergenson spent most of her career, she progressed from lab technician to director of winemaking. In her new role, Juergenson will help Bronco reinforce its commitment to craftsmanship and continuous improvement within the California wine industry. (Press release)

Schatzi Throckmorton, the owner and general manager of Relic Wine Cellars, has been elected chair of Napa Valley Vintner’s board of directors. Throckmorton has 25 years of experience in the wine industry, spanning entrepreneurship, business administration, and community leadership. In addition to Throckmorton’s appointment, Glenn Salva, the officer of Antinori Napa Valley, will serve as the vice chair, and Jason Lede, the general manager of Cliff Lede Vineyards, will serve as the secretary/treasurer. (Press release)

Scott joins the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance with 16 years of experience in marketing strategy and storytelling. Her experience includes senior executive roles at Merkle and, most recently, Indigo Slate, where she delivered marketing solutions for clients like Amazon. In her new role, Scott will lead a team of development and marketing professionals to raise awareness of Walla Walla Valley wine around the world. (Press release)

The Wyckoff family, third-generation owners of agribusinesses based in eastern Washington, has acquired Ste. Michelle Wine Estates. Now, for the first time in over 50 years, Ste. Michelle will be privately owned by a Washington-based company.  The acquisition includes all of Ste. Michelle’s wine brands, facilities, and vineyards in Washington. Court Wyckoff, the CEO of Wyckoff Farms, plans to work with the Ste. Michelle team to build on its leadership, invest in winemaking quality, and champion Washington’s grape growers. (Press release)

Fort joins Dalla Terra with deep expertise in brand creation, strategic marketing, and product development. She will take over the role of director of spirits from Rob Forman, who is retiring at the end of the year. Fort’s previous experience includes cofounding The Rooster Factory, an award-winning creative studio and brand strategy consultancy. In her new role, Fort will help make Dalla Terra’s spirits book the go-to Italian portfolio for mixologists. (Press release)

Houghton joins Menagerie Cellars, a boutique winery blending high-quality winemaking with philanthropy, with many years of experience in business leadership, finance, and operations. Most recently, Houghton served as the CFO of Archer Roose Wines. In her new role, Houghton will work to elevate Menagerie’s legacy around the world, while deepening its philanthropic commitments. (Press release)

Emmanuel Reynaud, the proprietor and winemaker for three estates in the southern Rhône, passed away at the age of 61. He began his winemaking career at his family’s estate in Vacqueyras, Château des Tours. In 1997, his uncle, Jacques Reynaud, passed away and he inherited the famed Château Rayas in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and Château de Fonsalette, just north of Châteauneuf. Rayas had become famous for its perfumed, 100 percent Grenache wines, and while it took time for Emmanuel to hone his uncle’s style, he soon proved his ability to maintain and even elevate the wines of Château Rayas.

The California Association of Winegrape Growers has elected new officers for the upcoming term beginning in December. John Chandler of Chandler Farms is elected chair of the board, succeeding outgoing chairman Gregg Hibbits of Grapevine Capital Partners. Aaron Lange of LangeTwins and Molly Scott of Justin Vineyards & Winery are elected vice chairs. Craig Ledbetter of Vino Farms will serve as treasurer and Duff Bevill of Bevill Vineyard Management will continue in the role of secretary. (Press release)

Fraser, the winemaker and managing director of South Australian winery Yangarra Estate, passed away at the age of 51. A native of South Australia, Fraser studied winemaking at the University of Adelaide and went on to work at several wineries in the state and around the world. He became the chief winemaker at Norman’s Winery in McLaren Vale by the age of 26, and when Jackson Family bought the property in 2001 and renamed it Yangarra Estate, Fraser stayed on as winemaker. Over his long career with Yangarra Estate, Fraser championed single-site Grenache wines, which have been recognized around the world for their outstanding quality.

Tamara Roberts is appointed chair of the board of trustees, taking over for Simon McMurtrie, who chaired the board since December 2020. Roberts has served as the CEO of Ridgeview, the award-winning English sparkling wine producer, for more than 10 years. Andrew Paynter, a long-standing member of the Vintners’ Company, is also appointed to WSET’s board of trustees, replacing Dan Jago, who was a trustee since 2020. (Press release)

Riley joins Bella Oaks with more than 10 years of industry experience. Most recently, she served as the director of operations for K. Laz Wine Collection. Prior to that, Riley held leadership roles at some of the country’s top luxury hotels and restaurants, such as Meadowood Napa Valley and Park Hyatt Chicago. In her new role, Riley will guide the winery’s global trade footprint, strengthen key market relationships, and cultivate strategic partnerships. (Press release)

Glosier joined Clif Family in 2022 as a wine educator and was responsible for sharing the stories behind the wines with guests. She later became the assistant hospitality manager, overseeing daily operations, events, and staff training. In her new role, Glosier will lead the winery’s hospitality team and tasting experiences. (Press release)

Pierson steps into the role of winemaker following the retirement of Cary Gott. Pierson has been the assistant winemaker at Bricoleur since 2019, and previously worked at Punchdown Cellars. In his new role, Pierson will lead the next chapter of Bricoleur’s cellar alongside fellow winemaker Bob Cabra. (Press release)

Ashford joins Fox Run Vineyards with more than 10 years of wine sales experience. She previously held leadership roles with Southern Wines and Spirits, Folio Fine Wine Partners, and most recently Heron Hill Winery. In her new role, Ashford will lead Fox Run’s national sales strategy, expand distribution channels, and strengthen relationships with key U.S. partners. (Press release)

Lukic, the president of luxury sales and marketing at Treasury Americas, joins the board of directors for Paso Robles Cab Collective with two decades of wine leadership experience. Prior to his role at Treasury, Lukic served as the president of Daou Vineyards, where he helped make Daou one of the fastest-growing wineries in the U.S. In his new role, Lukic will help shape the evolution of Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon. (Press release)

Mark Vernon, the CEO and president of Ridge Vineyards, will retire at the end of the year. Vernon, who joined the company in 1998, will become the chairman of the board of directors. The current board chairman, Paul Draper, will step down from the board, but continue to serve as winemaker emeritus. John Olney, who has been with Ridge for 29 years, will take on the role of CEO while continuing his duties as head winemaker. Additional promotions include Michael Torino, the SVP of global sales, to president; Ryan Moore, the SVP of consumer sales, to COO; and Charles Marin, the SVP of finance, to CFO. (Press release)

Rosenthal joins L’Ecole № 41, one of the founding wineries in Washington’s Walla Walla Valley, with more than 20 years of industry experience. In addition to making wine in Washington for 22 years as part of the team at Chateau Ste. Michelle, Rosenthal has worked in Australia, New Zealand, Napa Valley, and Willamette Valley. Most recently, Rosenthal served as a consultant to some of the leading wineries in the Pacific Northwest. In his new role, Rosenthal will be responsible for leading L’Ecole № 41 into its next chapter. (Press release)

Arnold joins Bottega Napa Valley with many years of industry experience. He previously held notable sommelier and wine director roles across the East Coast and Los Angeles. Most recently, he served as the sommelier for Press in Napa Valley, where he worked with an extensive local wine collection. In his new role, Arnold will continue to build Bottega’s well-established wine program and introduce guests to compelling wines from around the world. (Press release)

Ingles joins Hope Family Wines with over 25 years of experience in sales management. His recent experience includes serving in executive roles at RNDC and senior positions at The Wine Group and Pepsi Beverage Company. In his new role, Ingles will lead the winery’s domestic sales execution and oversee six regional managers and their teams. (Press release)

Tarara joins Washington’s viticulture and enology research program with an extensive background as a research scientist in the agriculture sector. Her previous roles span organizations such as the USDA Agricultural Research Service, the National Grape Research Alliance, and Ste. Michelle Wine Estates. In her new role, Tarara will be responsible for managing the industry’s research grant programs and disseminating outcomes to constituents. (Press release)

Vernon Underwood Jr. joined his family’s wholesale-distributor business, Young’s Market Company, in 1962. He worked several positions in the company, from the warehouse to sales, eventually taking over as president in 1975. In his 30 years in the role, Underwood transformed the business into a preeminent wine and spirits distributor. He also became a well respected industry leader, earning recognitions such as the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America in 2012.

Matulich joins Alma Rosa Winery with 25 years of experience in California’s wine and hospitality industries. He previously spent 15 years with Bounty Hunter Rare Wine & Spirits in Napa Valley, where he rose from a wine scout to the CEO, and most recently, he served as the general manager of Twin Rocks Estate Winery in the Sierra Foothills. In his new role, Matulich will help drive growth and steer the company into its next chapter. (Press release)

Harrison has served as the head of operations for The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) since 2020, and the interim executive director since June. In her previous role, Harrison oversaw all components of the Master of Wine (MW) study program and exam, coordinating students, MWs, IMW supporters, and the executive team. In her new role, Harrison will be responsible for overseeing the IMW’s global strategy, stakeholder relations, and operations. (Press release)

The creation of the U.S. board reinforces Gérard Bertrand’s strategic vision and execution in one of its fastest-growing international markets. Three industry leaders have been named to the board, including Ted Kavana, who brings over 30 years of experience from E & J Gallo Winery and Constellation Brands; Jean-Jacques Dubau, who spent 25 years with Campari Group; and Laurent Cosson, the chief marketing officer for the Gérard Bertrand Group, who will ensure strategic alignment between the worldwide brand vision and the North American business. (Press release)

Bezin joins Telmont with a decade of global winemaking experience. His previous experience spans California, Canada, and France, including Champagne. In his new role, Bezin will continue to shape Telmont’s Champagne style while advancing its environmental mission, which includes achieving 100 percent organic vineyards and net zero emissions by 2050. (Press release)

Andrea Pasqua joins his family’s business and bolsters the company’s leadership. He will work alongside his father, Umberto Pasqua, who serves as the chairman, and his brothers, Riccardo Pasqua, the CEO, and Alessandro Pasqua, the chairman of Pasqua USA. Andrea Pasque comes to the role with extensive experience in the global wine industry. He spent years with LVMH, working with several brands in the wine and spirits division. In his new role, he will oversee the implementation of strategic partnerships and growth initiatives. (Press release)

Sandra Beals joins Garden Creek as the private membership manager. With a background in sales, marketing, and technology, Beals is an expert in direct-to-consumer brand building. Ignacio Rodriguez joins the company as the estate manager. He has 40 years of experience in vineyard management and wine production across northern California. In their new roles, Beals and Rodriguez will help the business evolve into its next era of growth. (Press release)

Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) has shared that president and CEO Bob Hendrickson died on Friday, October 17. He had been a part of the company since 1997, when Tarrant Company and Julius Schepps Company merged to create RNDC. Before being named president and CEO earlier this year, Hendrickson was the company’s COO and executive vice president. “Bob’s leadership, integrity, and passion guided every chapter of our story,” partner and board member Marc Sachs wrote in a letter to the RNDC team. “All of us who had the privilege of knowing Bob will remember him not only as a titan of the industry, but also as a trusted colleague and friend,” Cutter Smith, the president of Eder Bros. Inc. and chairman of the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America, said in a written statement.

Shafer Vineyards has hired a new sales team to help drive deeper connections with key markets, accounts, and consumers. The new appointments include Nick Holmes, the VP of global sales, who will lead the new team and oversee all domestic and international sales; Lisa Hafer, the director of national accounts, who will oversee all national accounts for both on- and off-premise; Jamie Gillan, the VP of sales, eastern U.S., who will direct both strategic planning and executive-level management for the eastern territory; Roman Palumbo, the western regional sales director, who will oversee sales and execution across 10 western states; and Angela Smith, the regional sales director, eastern U.S., who will oversee sales and execution across 14 eastern states. (Press release)

Corbett joins Palm Bay International with over 30 years of industry experience. Most recently, he served as the SVP of business development at Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, where he helped position Josh Cellars as a market leader. In his new role, Corbett will lead the company’s national sales organization, drive sales strategy, and foster long-term growth across the company’s portfolio. (Press release)

Pepa joins Argentina’s Bodega Amalaya with decades of winemaking experience. He’s worked in prestigious wine regions across the U.S., France, Canada, and Asia, and spent the last 20 years at Bodega El Esteco, giving him deep local expertise. In his new role, Pepa will lead all winemaking and production efforts, ensuring excellence at every stage of the process, and reinforcing Amalaya’s commitment to quality and innovation. (Press release)

Victoria James, Amy Zhou, and Cynthia Cheng, the cofounders of Wine Empowered, a nonprofit organization that provides tuition-free wine education to women and BIPOC in hospitality, are seeking applicants for their 2026 classes. The classes, held Mondays and Wednesdays, cover all fundamental aspects of wine education and are taught by industry-leading professionals. Applications are open until Monday, October 13.

Maison Ruinart named Caroline Fiot as its new cellar master, succeeding the late Frédéric Panaïotis, who passed away in June. Fiot worked alongside Panaïotis from 2016 to 2020 as a winemaker and research and development manager. She played a key role in many of Ruinart’s innovations, such as the second skin case and Ruinart Blanc Singulier, and was an active member of the tasting committee. In her new role, Fiot will build on the vision upheld by Panaïotis over his 18 years in the role. (Press release)

Norwood joined Sagamore Spirit in 2016 and has held nearly every role within the organization. Over that time, he gained hands-on experience across all facets of production and operations, and has become an integral part of the team. Now, Norwood is moving up from VP of operations to master distiller. In this new role, Norwood will lead innovation and oversee production to shape the distinctive character of Sagamore’s rye. (Press release)

Conway joins Far Niente with 30 years of leadership experience across the beverage industry. He will take over from interim CEO Carol Reber, who will become the chairman of the board of directors. Most recently, Conway served as the CEO of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, and he previously spent over a decade in various c-suite roles at Peet’s Coffee. In his new role, Conway will oversee Far Niente’s six wineries—Far Niente, Nickel & Nickel, Bella Union, Post & Beam, EnRoute, and Dolce—with a focus on growth, consumer connections, and thoughtful innovation. (Press release)

California-based Rodney Strong Wine Estates has made three significant promotions within its national sales team. Jenny Sage is promoted to vice president of national sales; Colleen Brennan is promoted to vice president of strategic accounts; and Cory Stonewall is promoted to senior director of off-premise sales. These promotions will further strength the sales team, and advance the company’s growth strategy. (Press release)

Crosbie joined B.R. Distilling, parent company of Blue Note Bourbon, in 2024 as the vice president of sales with deep experience in the industry. He previously served as the director of sales and trade marketing for Altos Planos Collective, and prior to that he spent 16 years with Diageo. In his new role, Crosbie will be responsible for guiding the company’s strategic direction, driving growth initiatives, and ensuring continued innovation. (Press release)

Julander comes to Colorado’s Woody Creek Distillers with over a decade of experience in distilling and distillery operations. Most recently, he served as the master distiller and production and operations manager for Santa Fe Spirits in New Mexico. In his new role, Julander will oversee day-to-day operations, including distilling, production staff, and supply chain management. (Press release)

Bernstein joins The Napa Valley Reserve, a private winegrowing club, with experience in leadership, communications, and strategy. Most recently, Bernstein served as an associate partner at McKinsey & Company, where he led initiatives across sectors such as agriculture and technology. In his new role, Bernstein will build upon the company’s foundation to usher in a new chapter for the business. (Press release)

Bernardus Winery, a luxury brand based in Monterey County, California, has announced an expansion of its sales leadership team to strengthen its presence across key markets. The appointments include Bruce Smitham as VP of U.S. sales; Kellie Poe as regional sales manager, southern California; and Danielle Thompson as regional sales manager, northern California. (Press release)

American Whiskey Association (AWA), a trade association founded in 2025, has appointed Michael Bilello as its first CEO. Bilello comes to the role with more than 20 years of leadership experience, including 10 years in the drinks industry working across communications, public affairs, business development, and association management. Most recently, he served as the EVP of strategic communications and marketing for Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, where he led the organization’s branding, marketing, and communications strategy. In his new role, Bilello will help AWA drive global growth for American Whiskey, while supporting the category’s future and its members across the country. (Press release)

Amadia joins Cakebread Cellars following the retirement of Mike Jaeger, who served as the president and CEO for the past seven years. Amadia comes to the role with deep industry experience, including 17 years as the president of Ridge Vineyards. In his new role, Amadia will oversee the strategic direction and continued evolution of the Cakebread portfolio. (Press release)

Cutter Smith, the president of Eder Bros., Inc., has been elected chairman of Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA). Smith succeeds Dina Opici, the president of Opici Family Distributing, who completed her term as chairwoman. In his new role as chairman, Smith will ensure WSWA stays resourceful and dynamic in order to help members navigate challenges and uncover opportunities in an evolving industry. (Press release)

The Wonderful Company has made three new executive appointments to enhance the commercial capabilities of its wine portfolio, which includes brands such as Justin Vineyards & Winery, Lewis Cellars, and Landmark. The new appointments include Ian Bannerman as vice president of sales and commercial operations, west; Josh Snoddy as vice president of sales and commercial operations, central; and John Moorehead as vice president of sales and commercial operations, east. (Press release)

Maltais joins the Auction of Washington Wines, a top charity wine auction, with over 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the executive director of The 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle. In her new role, Maltais will lead the organization’s efforts to champion the Washington wine industry and expand its philanthropic impact. (Press release)

Family-owned Trisaetum Vineyards has welcomed the second generation to the winery team. Founders James and Andrea Frey are now joined by their son-in-law, Jackson Harloff-Frey, who will serve as the assistant winemaker under James. James and Andrea’s son, Tristen, also returns to the winery as the general manager. Their daughter, Tatum, serves as the enologist for Trisaetum, and the lead distiller for Brixeur, the family’s distillery. (Press release).

Sharp joins Darioush with more than two decades of experience. Most recently, he served as the managing director of Shafer Vineyards, and before that he led the U.S. on-premise portfolio for Domaines Barons de Rothschild. In his new role, Sharp will work closely with founders Darioush and Shahpar Khaledi and their daughter, Sally, to shape the estate’s future. (Press release)

Riboli Family Wines has promoted Paul Roberts from SVP of sales to chief commercial officer. In his previous role, Roberts achieved significant sales milestones and strengthened relationships with key retail and distribution partners. In his new role, Roberts will continue to lead sales operations while taking on commercial strategy, market development, and revenue growth initiatives. (Press release)

Koch, who has led the Wine Institute for 22 years and has been with the organization for more than three decades, has announced that he will retire at the end of 2025. During his tenure, California wineries experienced unprecedented growth as market access expanded in the U.S. and abroad. Under Koch’s leadership, the Wine Institute doubled its membership, built a staff dedicated to promoting the wine community, and helped transform policy that impacts the industry. (Press release)

Following Middle West Spirits’ acquisition of Old Elk Distillery, the company appointed Old Elk’s former CEO, Luis Gonzalez, to the role of chief commercial officer. In his new role, Gonzalez will oversee global commercial strategy, operations, and marketing, while expanding Middle West’s contract distillation program into international markets. (Press release)

During its August meeting, Lodi Winegrape Commission’s board of directors appointed a slate of new officers, representing the youngest leadership team in the Commission’s history. The new appointments include Jacylyn Stokes Iniguez as chair; Hadyn Schatz as vice chair; Pieter den Hartog as secretary; and Scott Armolea as treasurer. The new leadership team will bring the forward-thinking vision needed to navigate today’s evolving wine industry. (Press release)

Alvarez joins Wilson Creek Winery with deep expertise in the industry. Most recently, she served as the general manager for Ponte Winery, where she oversaw a team of more than 120 employees. In her new role, Alvarez will oversee Wilson Creek’s winemaking operations and logistics, tasting room, and wine club. (Press release)

Schlachter joined the team at Willamette Valley-based Nicolas-Jay in 2020 as the national sales director and has since played a key role in the winery’s strategic growth. His prior experience includes senior roles at Kobrand Corporation, The Wine Group LLC, and Young’s Market Company. In his new role, Schlachter will oversee all sales and marketing channels, including the tasting room, wine club, e-commerce, and national distribution. (Press release)

Eliason joins Sonoma County Vintners as the interim executive director to help guide the organization as Michael Haney departs from the role. Eliason has over two decades of experience in the wine and spirits business. Most recently, she served as the CEO of Truett Hurst Winery and the general manager at Geodesy Wine. Her prior experience spans marketing and sales roles at Treasury Wine Estates, J Vineyards & Winery, and E&J Gallo. (Press release)

Wood joins Patz & Hall with over a decade of hospitality experience. His appointment follows the return of the business to independent ownership and a renewed focus on hospitality. In Wood’s new role, he will be responsible for reimagining the tasting room experience with a focus on embracing individual interests and removing barriers to entry. (Press release)

Erard joined Charles Heidsieck in 2018 as a fifth-generation winegrower and Champagne native. He previous experience included working for important houses, like Billecart-Salmon and Ayala, as well as with regional cooperatives. When Erard first joined Charles Heidsieck, he was responsible for winery operations, but his role has grown to include grower partnerships, vineyard sourcing, and tasting. In his new role, Erard will lead the cellar team in shaping the future of Charles Heidsieck’s wines. (Press release)

Philip O’Conor is named vice president of sales and marketing and Michael Thomas is appointed chief financial officer. Most recently, O’Conor served as the general manager of Wheeler Farms, working alongside the Araujo family. Thomas joins from Cakebread Cellars, where he also served as the chief financial officer. These appointments follow Faiveley Family’s acquisition of a majority stake in the brand. (Press release)

Morgan joins The Duckhorn Portfolio with over 24 years of industry experience. Most recently, he served as the senior vice president of wine and estates for Moët Hennessy North America. He has also held leadership roles at other significant companies, such as Accolade Wines and Treasury Wine Estates. In his new role, Morgan will oversee several teams, including wholesale, national accounts, analytics, and sales operations. (Press release)

Avery comes to Shafer Vineyards with over 20 years of experience working in fine wine. His previous experience includes leadership roles with several notable wine estates, such as Darioush, Daou Family Estates, and Opus One. In his new role, Avery will work with both the Shafer team and global partners to build on Shafer’s legacy and guide the company into the future. (Press release)

Parnigoni joins Alta Colina with a diverse background in winemaking. His previous experience includes a Master’s degree in wine and viticulture from Cal Poly SLO, and harvests across Australia, the Sierra Foothills, Santa Cruz, and Paso Robles. Working as part of a dynamic team, Parnigoni wi​​ll help carry out Alta Colina’s goal of crafting expressive, Rhône-style wines. (Press release)

Gifford joins Foley Family Wines & Spirits with deep expertise in international beverage sales. Most recently, he served as the head of UK and Nordics for WX Brands/Grupo Peñaflor, where he helped drive growth for brands like Bread & Butter and Trapiche. In his newly created role, Gifford will lead international sales of Foley’s U.S. wine and spirits portfolio. (Press release)

Gallery joins Morales Beverage Group with an extensive background in sales leadership. He has previously held key leadership roles in both the alcohol beverage and hospitality sectors. In his new role, Gallery will drive the company’s sales strategy, enhance market presence, and lead the company’s continued growth. (Press release)

Bonneville-Jiang comes to the Independent Stave Company with wide ranging experience in wine research and production. Her previous research has focused on wine microbiology, sensory analysis, and innovation. Most recently, Bonneville-Jiang served as the research and development manager for Lawrence Wine Estates, where her work included smoke taint mitigation and soil health trials. In her new role, Bonneville-Jiang will lead research and development initiatives that support innovation. (Press release)

Jones joins Cru Winery in California’s Central Valley with years of experience in food and beverage management. Most recently, Jones served as the director of food and beverage for the Belmont Country Club. In his newly created role with Cru Winery, Jones will be responsible for managing and growing the tasting room, strengthening the DTC team, and building the corporate business. (Press release)

Hanks has worked for Rodney Strong Wine Estates for 19 years, serving in key sales and leadership roles. Most recently, Hanks delivered consistent growth as a member of the national account, on-premise team. In her new role, Hanks will lead the development and execution of the company’s international sales operations. (Press release)

In order to accelerate growth, innovation, and impact, O’Neill Vintners & Distillers has made several strategic executive appointments. Maeve Pesquera has been promoted to CMO and EVP of luxury; Breck O’Neill has been named EVP of business development; Paul Passaro has been appointed SVP of sales; and Ron Mertz is named SVP of commercial strategy. (Press release)

Duncan joins Quintessential with over three decades of experience. His background spans sales management, operational efficiency, and supplier development. Most recently, Duncan served as the EVP and general manager for Republic National Distributing Company in Hawaii. In his new position, Duncan will play a key role in Quintessential’s upcoming portfolio expansion aimed at better serving partners across California. (Press release)

Watson joins Highland Park following the retirement of Gordon Motion, who helped shape the brand for over 27 years. Watson has over a decade of experience, most recently serving as the master blender for The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt. He has spent the past six months working alongside Motion, and is now ready to lead the brand’s next chapter. (Press release)

Van Staaveren’s appointment to the role of director of winemaking for Beringer Vineyards expands her leadership position within Treasury Wine Estates (TWE). Having now worked 45 harvests, Van Staaveren is a highly respected figure in California winemaking. This new role adds to her leadership as TWE’s director of winemaking, North Coast, where she oversees several brands in the portfolio, including Beaulieu Vineyard, Frank Family Vineyards, Stags’ Leap Winery, and more. (Press release)

Jackson joins Upchurch Vineyard, a winery in Washington’s Red Mountain, with more than six years of experience. He has previously worked as a tasting room associate, cellar master, and lab technician, among other responsibilities. In his new role, Jackson will be involved in all stages of wine production. (Press release)

Somm.ai, in collaboration with the Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani and Colangelo & Partners, has launched the Ben Oberto Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship was created to honor the life of Ben Oberto, a passionate supporter of Langhe wines, and to help American wine professionals experience the Langhe region firsthand. The scholarship includes round-trip airfare to Italy, access to Grandi Langhe, the region’s flagship trade fair, and participation in the Barolo & Barbaresco Academy Langhe Wine School, which includes classroom sessions, tastings, seminars, and vineyard visits. The deadline to apply is August 15, 2025.

Champagne Laurent-Perrier named Kayla Young and Poppi Monroe to their U.S. sales team. Young will serve as the northeast market sales manager and Monroe will serve as the central market sales manager. Young has over 15 years of experience, most recently as a regional sales manager for Demeine Estates. Monroe’s background spans sales, brand development, and distributor management, including overseeing several markets for Ridge Vineyards. In these new roles, Young and Monroe will be responsible for driving sales growth in their respective markets. (Press release)

Nyeholt steps into the role of winemaker for Arietta Wine with almost a decade of experience with the brand. Nyeholt joined Arietta in 2016 as the assistant winemaker and was promoted to associate winemaker in 2020. During that time, Nyeholt worked closely with longtime Arietta winemaker Andy Erickson, who is now transitioning to the role of winemaker emeritus. In his new role, Nyeholt will ensure continuity of the vision and style that Arietta is known for. (Press release)

Theresa Cioffi has been named Florida regional sales manager, and Hunson Nquyen has been named Pacific Northwest sales manager. Cioffi joins Stoller Wine Group with over a decade of experience in distributor management, cross-channel growth, and strategic sales leadership. In her new role, Cioffi will lead regional expansion and support cohesive sales efforts across all markets. Nguyen joins the team from RNDC, where he supported the Stoller Wine Group portfolio as a supplier specialist. In his new role, Nguyen will help grow the company’s presence and strengthen regional partnerships. (Press release)

The Regenerative Viticulture Foundation (RVF), a non-profit that helps wine producers transition to regenerative farming, has named Jancis Robinson, MW, as its patron. Over the course of Robinson’s 50-year career in the wine industry, she has helped to raise awareness of sustainability and environmental issues, and has championed solutions such as reducing bottle weight. As RVF’s patron, Robinson will help amplify the foundation’s work and encourage winegrowers, producers, and consumers to create a more environmentally responsible wine industry. (Press release)

On July 1, Tip Top founder and current CEO, Yoni Reisman, will join the newly founded board as chairman, and Nick Reely will be promoted to CEO. Prior to joining Tip Top, Reely served in senior leadership roles at Pabst Brewing Company. Reely then joined Tip Top in 2022 as the chief sales officer and has played a key role in driving sales growth. As the new CEO, Reely will continue to drive the company forward. (Press release)

Cabib joins Badia a Coltibuono, a family-owned Tuscan winery, with more than 30 years of experience. Cabib has worked with various Italian wine companies since the 1990s. Most recently, he oversaw corporate strategy, operations, and market expansion across the wine, spirits, and gourmet food portfolios for Eurofood Group. He is the first person outside of the Stucchi Prinetti family to hold an executive position at the company, and will be responsible for leading a comprehensive brand evolution. (Press release)

Truchard Vineyards has announced the promotion of Justin Sandoval to director of sales, where he will oversee both direct-to-consumer (DTC) and national wholesale sales. Over Sandoval’s three-year tenure with the Carneros winery, he has led the winery’s DTC efforts to enhance its hospitality, wine club, and online sales. (Press release)

Krichevsky has extensive experience working in direct-to-consumer (DTC) roles, including previous work with Ancient Peaks Winery. In 2018, she left Ancient Peaks to work DTC roles at other wineries in the Paso Robles area, and a role in public relations. In her newly created role with Ancient Peaks, Krichevsky will oversee the tasting room, wine club, special events, and other DTC experiences. (Press release)

Skurnik Wines & Spirits, a family-owned and -operated business, announced plans to transfer leadership of the company to the next generation. Starting January 1, 2026, Oren Simon, the current CFO, will take over as CEO, while the founder and current CEO Michael Skurnik will assume the title of founder and chairman. Also, EVP David Skurnik will become president, while current president Harmon Skurnik will become the executive chair. Oren Simon and David Skurnik, who have a combined 30 years of experience, will take over day-to-day operations, while Michael and Harmon Skurnik shift their focus to the company’s long-term vision. (Press release)

Panaïotis, who has served as the cellar master for Maison Ruinart since 2007, passed away at the age of 61 following an accident. Panaïotis’ winemaking career stretches back to the 1980s and includes multiple harvests in California, a stint with Champagne’s regulatory body, and 12 years with Veuve Clicquot. Since joining Ruinart in 2007, Panaïotis has had a strong influence on the brand, particularly when it comes to issues of sustainability. He introduced recycled-paper packaging, biodiversity initiates, and helped to significantly reduce the house’s carbon footprint.

Wirth steps into this role with 20 years of industry experience, including 15 years with The Opici Group. Most recently, Wirth served as the regional manager for upstate New York and Connecticut for Opici Wines & Spirits. In his newly created role, Wirth will be responsible for driving the company’s sustainability strategy, which will include identifying key impact areas and working internally and externally to reduce carbon emissions across the supply chain. (Press release)

Navor joins the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance with 15 years of industry experience. Her career has focused on marketing, branding, and strategic leadership at companies such as Constellation Brands and The Wine Group. In her new role, Navor will work to increase the visibility and prominence of the Finger Lakes wine region. (Press release)

After nearly two decades, Coyle is stepping down as the master distiller for High West Distillery in order to focus on launching Dendric Estate, a high-elevation cider and spirits estate in Utah. Coyle was instrumental in shaping both High West and modern American whiskey. With his next venture, Coyle will focus his new estate on sustainability, elevated sensory experiences, and refined agritourism. (Press release)

Tedd joins Bronco WIne Co. with more than three decades of industry experience. He recently served as the chief sales officer of Taub Family Companies, where he played a pivotal role in driving growth. In his new role, Tedd will oversee national sales operations with a focus on expanding market presence, driving growth, and deepening relationships across the portfolio. (Press release)

Pilot Project Brewing, a beverage incubator based in Chicago, welcomes Kyle Hodges to spearhead the company’s nationwide expansion plan. Hodges steps into the role with over a decade of experience. Most recently, he served as the director of new business for Dark Matter Coffee. In his new role, Hodges will further develop the incubation program by launching new alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands, and introduce new strategic partnerships (Press release)

Elusa Winery, part of the Four Seasons Resort in Napa Valley, has appointed Jon Keyes as winemaker. Keyes’ experience includes working a vintage with Two Hands Winery in Australia, serving as the cellarmaster at Outpost Winery on Howell Mountain, and developing the portfolio for Wade Cellars. At Elusa, Keyes will work to craft wines with authenticity and a sense of place. (Press release)

Schwartz, the founder of New York-based wine import company VOS Selections, was the lead plaintiff in a lawsuit challenging the Trump Administration’s authority to impose sweeping tariffs without the approval of Congress. This week, the U.S. Court of International Trade sided with the plaintiffs, ruling that many of the “Liberation Day” tariffs, including the blanket 10 percent tariffs on all imported goods, are illegal. The Trump Administration has already applied for and was granted a stay.

Jeff Ngo is appointed EVP, chief growth officer, and Nihar Bhatt is named EVP, chief financial officer. Ngo joins Duckhorn with over 20 years of experience in brand management, most recently as the chief commercial officer of WX Brands. Bhatt comes to Duckhorn with more than 20 years of financial and strategic experience, most recently serving as the chief financial officer of Toms Shoes. In their new roles, Ngo will oversee brand and trade marketing, creative services, and DTC, while Bhatt will lead the finance, strategy, and IT functions. (Press release)

Jourdan Carralejo is promoted to vice president of consumer sales; Michelle Andreen is named southeast regional sales manager; and Janna Tonahill is appointed western regional director. Carralejo joined the company in 2024 and oversaw DTC performance across four locations in Oregon. Andreen joins the company with 25 years of sales experience, most recently with Shaw Ross International. Tonahill has a track record of aggressive growth, most recently with Wine Hooligans. These appointments reinforce Stoller Wine Group’s commitment to elevating Oregon wine. (Press release)

Gilbert joins Trinchero with ample leadership experience in sales, marketing, hospitality, and direct-to-consumer strategy. She previously served in leadership roles at Simon Family Estate, Adamvs, Dana Estates, and Paul Hobbs. In this newly created role, Gilbert will oversee the Trinchero Napa Valley brand and the new Trinchero-Abreu project, providing strategic leadership to grow the company’s luxury portfolio. (Press release)

Peek comes to Vinarchy, which launched in 2025 after the merger of Accolade Wines and Pernod Ricard Winemakers, with 20 years of experience in the drinks industry. His recent roles include serving as the CEO of Heineken Canada and, most recently, the CEO of Lagunitas Brewing Company. In his new role, Peek will oversee operations and distribution across the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. (Press release)

Miller joined Clos du Val four years ago, after gaining a decade of experience in the wine industry. She previously worked harvests in three different U.S. states, as well as in countries around the world. In her new role, Miller will support all aspects of Clos du Val’s winegrowing and production efforts, with a focus on tasting and winery logistics. (Press release)

French takes on these dual roles with deep winemaking expertise in the Napa Valley. She previously served as the winemaker for Signorello Estate, where she helped revive the Napa-based property after the 2017 wildfires. As the director of winemaking for Napa Wine Company, the region’s pioneering custom crush facility, French will lead winemaking and production. At Ghost Block, French will craft wines from renowned estate vineyards, with a focus on single-vineyard bottlings. (Press release)

Celoni comes to Vinarchy, which was established in 2025 after the merger of Accolade Wines and Pernod Ricard Winemakers, with over 25 years of experience, including 18 years at Diageo across various executive roles. Most recently, he served as the CEO of Carlton and United Breweries. As CEO of Vinarchy, Celoni will help shape the company’s next phase of growth. (Press release)

Walsh joins Ashes & Diamonds in Napa Valley with a diverse background in the wine industry. His experience spans on-premises work as a sommelier as well as roles in supplier-side sales distribution. Most recently, Walsh served as the global sales director for Ernest Vineyards in Sonoma. In his new position, Walsh will oversee all domestic wholesale and international sales efforts. (Press release)

Wright steps into the role of Chateau Ste. Michelle’s red winemaker with a decade of experience. He joined Ste. Michelle in 2021 as an enologist at their Northstar winery in Walla Walla, and was later promoted to assistant winemaker. Now as the company’s red winemaker, Wright will oversee the red wine portfolio, including the Columbia Valley tier, Indian Wells wines, single-vineyard estate wines, and limited-release wines. (Press release)

Ciongoli joins Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association (TVWA) with experience across the wine industry. Most recently, she served as the vice president of marketing for Kerr Cellars in Napa Valley. She has also worked harvests in Napa, New Zealand, and Australia. In her new role, Ciongoli will lead integrated marketing initiatives and build out TVWA’s marketing team to further elevate the region’s brand presence. (Press release)

Dastic joins Pope Valley WInery in Napa County with extensive management experience in hospitality and retail. She previously worked with brands such as Silver Oak, Sur La Table, and Pier 1 Imports. In her new role, Dastic will be responsible for providing unique consumer experiences, which will help transform and restore Pope Valley Winery to its historic significance. (Press release)

Dyer-Kindy joins Grapejuice Group, an importer specializing in wines, spirits, and other beverages, with a wealth of leadership experience in the industry. He most recently served as the vice president of national accounts for Vintus, and he previously worked as the director of beverage operations for Vino Volo. In his new role, Dyer-Kindy will oversee all aspects of operations, including strategic planning, business development, and customer and supplier relations. (Press release)

Rynecki joins Virginia-based Early Mountain Vineyards with over 14 years of leadership experience in the hospitality industry. Previously, Rynecki served as the general manager for Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyard, and as the corporate executive chef for Easton Porter Group. In his new role, Rynecki will oversee hospitality strategy and operations, including the development of new experiences and events that reflect the winery’s mission. (Press release)

Jason Moore and Thomas Smith have been appointed to lead the sales team for Neely Wine. Moore joins the team after serving as the cofounder and CEO of Alluvial Wines, and Smith comes from K&L Wine Merchants, where he served as the wine club director. Moore will be responsible for wholesale and private gatherings at Neely’s estate, while Smith will manage DTC programs, including the wine club. (Press release)

Lonborg joins Booker Vineyard in Paso Robles with 15 years of experience making Rhône-style wines in the region. Most recently, Lonborg served as the head winemaker for Alta Colina Vineyard & Winery. In her new role, Lonborg will work closely with the director of winemaking, Pete Turrone, and the senior vineyard manager, Hilary Graves, to advance the company’s winemaking program. (Press release) 

Steve Bellini will transition from president to the new role of chief operating officer and Paul Criscuolo will take over as president and lead North America. Bellini, who has served as president for the past four years, oversaw a 40 percent increase in sales year over year. Together, they will continue to build the sales infrastructure of the company, grow sales, and increase the brand’s footprint within control states. (Press release)

Camarena, a third-generation tequila maker and the former master of operations, is promoted to master distiller and CEO of El Tesoro Tequila, taking over leadership from her brother, Carlos. Camarena steps into this position with 10 years of experience, having joined the distilling team of the family business in 2015. In her new role, Camarena will shape the next chapter of El Tesoro. (Press release)

Hund joins Pinhook Bourbon as a seasoned veteran of the spirits industry. He previously held leadership roles with Milestone Brands, Heaven Hill, and Deep Eddy Vodka. In his new role, Hund will be responsible for identifying new sales opportunities to achieve revenue and sales growth objectives. (Press release)

Dave Rudman has joined the International Wine Center (IWC) as a partner and managing director. Mary Ewing-Mulligan, MW, the president of IWC, will step back from day-to-day management, but continue to serve in an advisory role. Rudman previously served as the global business development director for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. In his new role, Rudman will build on the IWC’s legacy to educate and inspire the next generation of wine and spirits professionals. (Press release)

Laura Oskwarek has been named director of winemaking and Justin Hirigoyen has been promoted to vice president of winegrowing. Oskwarek has 15 years of experience in roles spanning lab manager to winemaker. In her new role, she will oversee winemaking operations at both the Alexander Valley and Napa Valley facilities. Hirigoyen joined the company in 2019 as the winemaker for Twomey and was promoted to director of winemaking in 2021. In his new role, he will oversee all vineyard, winemaking, and production operations across the Silver Oak, Twomey, Ovid, and Prince Hill properties. (Press release)

Snyder joins Four Branches with almost 50 years of experience in the spirits industry. Most recently, he served as the master distiller for Chicken Cock Whiskey. Prior to that he held roles in production and operations at companies such as Brown-Forman, Wild Turkey, and Jim Beam. In his new role, Snyder will serve in an advisory capacity and guide the brand’s future limited releases. (Press release)

Ken Wright Cellars has announced two new appointments to its sales team. Sarah Beth Kokoszka has been named vice president of sales for the western U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia, and Gene Zimmerman has been promoted to vice president of sales for the eastern U.S., Caribbean, and Latin America. Kokoszka has experience in strategic sales management, and previously served as a division vice president for Jackson Family Wines. Zimmerman joined the company in 2023, having previously worked for brands such as Sixty Vines and Halter Ranch Vineyards. (Press release)

Anne Tournade has been named director of the Alsatian Winegrowers’ Association. Tournade comes from a professional background in administration and business management with experience in healthcare, mobility, and housing. Tournade is the first female director of the association. She succeeds Frédéric Bach, who has retired. (Press release)

Frey Ranch Distillery has appointed three new individuals to its sales team. Rick Monkarsh has been appointed vice president of national sales; Chris Hemly is named regional sales director, east; and Mick Roberts has been appointed regional sales director, central. Monkarsh joins Frey Ranch after 19 years with Campari Group. Hemly previously worked with brands such as WhistlePig Whiskey and Barrell Craft Spirits. Roberts most recently served as the vice president of sales for Gérard Bertrand wines. (Press release)

Coastal Vineyard Care Associates has appointed Christopher Lynch as its chief financial officer. Lynch most recently worked for Walsh Vineyards Management as CFO, and has also worked as the vice president of operations at Foley Family Wines. Lynch lectures at UC Davis Graduate School of Management and serves on the board of directors for the California Association of Winegrape Growers, as well as on the advisory board for Servico Building Maintenance. (Press release)

Brendan Kost has been appointed chief sales officer for Archer Roose Wines, a canned wine brand. Kost has been in the alcohol industry for 15 years with experience in distribution and supply. He began his career in the beer industry, working with companies such as Union Beer Distributors and Southern Tier Brewing Company, before transitioning to canned cocktails and hard teas, among others. (Press release)

Marzia Varvaglione, the head of business development for Varvaglione 1921, has been elected president of the Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins. Varvaglione began her career in the wine industry in 2013, and represents the fourth generation of the Varvaglione 1921 family business. She also serves as the marketing and sales director for the winery. Varvaglione has overseen additional positions of influence in the wine industry, including president of the Associazione Giovani Imprenditori Vinicoli Italiani and board member of Unione Italiana Vini. (Press release)

Beaulieu Vineyard has appointed Nate Weis as its new general manager and senior winemaker. Previously, Weis served as the winemaker for Silver Oak for 11 years, and has also worked for other Napa Valley brands, such as Patz & Hall and Antica Napa Valley. Additionally, Weis works as an adjunct professor for Napa Valley College. (Press release)

Aperture Cellars has appointed Callum Clarke as western regional sales manager. Clarke has over 10 years of experience in the industry, and most recently served as the western regional sales manager of Adobe Road Winery. “[Callum] understands the nuances of luxury wine sales and brings a wealth of experience that will be vital as we deepen our footprint across the western region,” said Jesse Katz, the founder and winemaker of Aperture Cellars, in a press release. (Press release)

Opus One has appointed Meghan Zobeck as director of winemaking. Zobeck’s role is the first of its kind for the company. Most recently, Zobeck served as the winemaker for Burgess Cellars, and has also worked for Trois Noix and Atelier Melka. In her new position, Zobeck will oversee the winery’s cellar, harvest, laboratory, and bottling departments. The current winemaker, Michael Silacci, will be responsible for final approval of all blending, harvest, and operational activities. (Press release)

Melissa Aellen, the founder of Simple Theory Wine Co., has been named board president of the Maryland Wineries Association. A third-generation vintner, Aellen is also the acting director of winery operations at the family-owned Linganore Winecellars.  In her new position, Aellen will be leading board meetings, assisting with membership initiatives, and guiding major policy discussions. (Press release)

Force Majeure, a winery in Walla Walla, Washington, has appointed Louis Skinner as their new winemaker. Skinner’s career in the wine industry began in 2008 when he became a wine buyer for Fine Wine & Cigars in Redmond, Washington. Most recently, Skinner served as the winemaker for Betz Family Winery, which he first joined in 2014 as an assistant winemaker. (Press release)

Sandrae Lawrence, the editor and cofounder of The Cocktail Lovers, has joined the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation’s board of directors. Before founding The Cocktail Lovers in 2008, Lawrence’s career spanned several industries, including writing and editing for various publications such as The Daily Telegraph and The London Evening Standard. Lawrence regularly serves as a judge for both national and international cocktail competitions, and mentors for Equal Measures and OurWhisky Foundation programs. Lawrence was also inducted into the Tales Catalyst in 2021. (Press release)

Donald L. Bryant Jr., the owner and founder of Bryant Family Vineyard, has died. Bryant purchased property in Pritchard Hill in 1985 and began producing his own wine in 1990. Bryant worked with various winemakers to establish the brand as a leading producer of Cabernet Sauvignon in the Napa Valley. (Press release)

Avaline, an organic wine brand founded by Cameron Diaz and Katherine Power, has announced new appointments to its sales team. Matt Szura, who has been with Avaline for four years, has been promoted to senior vice president of sales. Additionally, Yujin Jones, who has served as the sales director for the southeast, has been promoted to senior sales director. (Press release)

Dineen Vineyards, an estate in Washington’s Yakima Valley, has appointed Brian Mackey as its new winemaker. Mackey most recently worked for Chateau Ste. Michelle, where he joined as an intern and advanced to the role of head winemaker over the course of 14 years, eventually overseeing all red winemaking. In his new position, Mackey will work collaboratively with Marissa Dineen, the owner of Dineen Vineyards. (Press release)

The Coombsville Vintners and Growers has announced its new board of directors for 2025. The new board will be led by Jim Urda, the owner of Immaculate Vineyards, who is continuing on in his role as the president, and Frank Bishop, the proprietor of Terra Solis Vineyard, who will be serving as the vice president. Real estate advisor Mary Carpenter has been appointed secretary, and Pat Scanlon of Redmon Wines has been appointed treasurer. Other appointments include Allison O’Holleran of Coombsville Heights Vineyard; Sarah Berger of Caldwell Vineyard; Ryan Pass of Farella Vineyard; Ron Sciandri of Sciandri Family Vineyards; and Anthony Washington of Rewa Vineyards. (Press release)

Joanne D. Smith has joined the Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas’ board of directors. Smith joins the board after retiring from her position as the executive vice president and chief people officer of Delta Air Lines. Smith has over 25 years of experience in the travel industry, with positions relevant to talent management, marketing, and customer service. Smith will serve a three-year term on the board from 2025 to 2027. (Press release)

Four Walls Irish American Whiskey, founded by Glenn Howerton, Rob McElhenney, and Charlie Day, has appointed Malte Barnekow as the company’s CEO. Barnekow is an industry veteran who oversaw the growth of Ford’s Gin and its acquisition by Brown-Forman. Barnekow has also served as the president of Casa Azul Spirits, and most recently cofounded the New York Cocktail Company. (Press release)

Chef DJ MacIntyre, who has served as the executive winery chef for Willamette Valley Vineyards for a decade, has been promoted to wine and culinary director. Before joining Willamette Valley Vineyards, MacIntyre worked at John Howie’s Sport Restaurant & Bar as ​​the chef de cuisine, and later at Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar. In his new role, MacIntrye will be overseeing all chefs at the winery’s tasting room and restaurant locations as well as meeting vendors, hosting dinners, conducting home events, and performing cooking demonstrations. (Press release)

Insólito Tequila has appointed four new regional sales managers: Dan Streepy, Tom King, Stewart Domke, and Steve Manos. Streepy joins the company with over 35 years of industry experience, having worked for companies like Brown-Forman and William Grant & Sons. King joins with over 30 years of experience, having served as a business unit director for Diageo for 11 years, and most recently as a VP at WES Brands. Domke has 25 years of experience, and joins Insólito after fulfilling multiple leadership roles for Suntory Global Spirits. Manos has spent over 30 years with Prestige Wine Imports, serving as the VP of sales for the east division for over 15 years. (Press release)

Cape Classics, an importer focused on South Africa, has announced the return of cofounder André Shearer to the role of chief executive officer while retaining his title as executive chairman. Shearer returns after a five-year hiatus. Additionally, Matthew Dennie, who had previously departed from the company in 2023, has returned to Cape Classics to assume the role of chief operating officer. (Press release)

Mark Turnbull has stepped down as CEO and president of New Zealand-based wine producer Foley Wines. Turnbull originally joined Foley Wines in 2012 with a background in finance and operations, having served as the CCO of Auckland FC and the COO of the advertising group Clemenger. Mike Higgins, the current CEO of Foley Hospitality, will be serving as interim CEO during the transition. (Press release)

E. Yuri Hermida has announced his plans to step down from his position as the executive vice president and chief growth and strategy officer at Constellation Brands. Mallika Monteiro, who previously held Hermida’s role before his appointment in 2024, will be serving as the interim chief growth and strategy officer. (Press release)

Marlene Holmes, the master distiller of Milam & Greene Whiskey, has been inducted into Whisky Magazine’s Hall of Fame. Holmes is one of the first American women and the only female distiller to receive this award. After working at Jim Beam for over 30 years, Holmes moved to Texas to work for Milam & Greene, where she was quickly recognized as the most experienced whiskey distiller in the state. Holmes joins a group of less than 100 whisky professionals to be inducted into the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame. (Press release)

Stuart Spencer, the executive director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission Board of Directors, has been honored for his 25 years of service to the organization. Spencer initially joined as the program manager in 1999, and was later promoted to executive director in 2018. Spencer’s contributions include the launch of the Lodi Wine Visitor Center, the development of the Lodi Rules for Sustainable Winegrowing program, and various educational initiatives for the region. (Press release)

Glenn Remoreras has been appointed executive vice president and chief information officer for Breakthru Beverage Group. Remoreras will be tasked with developing long-term IT strategies for the beverage wholesaler, with a focus on innovation. Remoreras most recently worked as the chief information officer for Mark Anthony Group, where he implemented various tech strategies for the group’s U.S. breweries. (Press release)

Don Hamilton has been appointed president of Serendipity Wines. Hamilton has worked in the wine industry for almost three decades, fulfilling various sales and leadership roles. He was the vice president of New Vintage Wines, which was bought by Serendipity Wines, and he served as Serendipity’s senior vice president prior to his promotion. (Press release)

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)

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 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)

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)

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)

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 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)

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)

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)

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 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)

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)

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, 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, 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)

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)

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 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 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)

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 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 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, 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)

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 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, 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 (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, 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 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’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 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)

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)

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, 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 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 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)

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 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)

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 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 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)

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)

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 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)

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)

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, 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, 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)

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 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, 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)

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)

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, 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 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, 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)

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)

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 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)

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, 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 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, 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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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, 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)

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 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)

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, 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 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 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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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, 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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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).

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

​​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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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 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.

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)  

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.  

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.