Wellington WineryWellington Wines

Production

Jose Mendoza - Vineyard Foreman

Jose Mendoza has been working in Sonoma Valley vineyards for almost forty years, having learned his craft from the legendary Joe Miami.  Jose was living in a trailer when we first met, but through hard work and saving he and his wife bought a house in the early '90s and have traded up twice since then.  They now live in a prestigious neighborhood as empty-nesters, their youngest son grown and starting a family of his own.

Jose has worked for Wellington Vineyards since 1988 and taught Peter a lot more about grape growing than all of Peter's professors, mentors and contemporaries combined.  In addition, he taught Peter most of Peter's Spanish vocabulary, including a few very colorful Mexican phrases.   Jose is a master pruner and winner of multiple prizes in pruning competitions.  He prunes all 21 acres of our vines personally, and takes incredible pride in his work.  This vineyard is Jose's vineyard as much or more than anyone else's.

Sam Garske - Cellar Master

A born and raised Minnesotan, Sam first discovered his love of wine while spending a year in Mallorca, Spain. Upon finishing his studies in Wisconsin, Sam decided to make the move to Sonoma County. After an internship at Korbel Champagne Cellars and a year with Kenwood Vineyards, he finally found his place working in the cellar here at Wellington. Sam is now basking in the extensive experience our winery has to offer.

Sam had been with us just over a year, but he already fits in perfectly with the Wellington crew. We all love his Midwest humor, and his take on us crazy Californians!