Jim DeBonis, CEO of Ascentia Wine Estates, has announced the promotion of Ondine Chattan to the head winemaking position at Geyser Peak Winery.
Founded in 1880 in Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley, Geyser Peak is recognized for crafting highly acclaimed, cool climate Sauvignon Blanc and Alexander Valley Bordeaux varietals, primarily Cabernet Sauvignon.
“Ondine Chattan is an extremely talented, progressive winemaker,” said DeBonis. “Geyser Peak has enjoyed a distinguished heritage of winemaking since 1880, and we’re delighted to entrust Ondine with carrying on the Geyser Peak tradition of crafting exceptional wines.”
Ascentia Wine Estates is a collection of eight distinctive wineries: Atlas Peak, Buena Vista Carneros, Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery, Geyser Peak Winery and XYZin in California; and Columbia Winery, Covey Run and Ste. Chapelle in the Pacific Northwest.
Chattan’s 15 years of winemaking experience include 10 at Geyser Peak and as lead winemaker for XYZin, which is produced at the Geyser Peak winemaking facility. Throughout her career, her passion has been producing wines with a sense of place – balancing science and artistry, and merging established techniques with a relentless pursuit of progressive viticulture.
“I feel very fortunate for the great opportunities that Ascentia Wine Estates has provided me over the last several years,” Chattan said. “I look forward to building upon my passion for estate-focused wines, and to continue exploring and enhancing the potential of our extraordinary vineyard sources.”
Before becoming winemaker at XYZin, Chattan honed her skills with premier Zinfandel producers Ridge and Cline Cellars. She holds an undergraduate degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and a Master’s degree in enology from Fresno State University. Originally from Marin, Chattan’s interest in nature and science was inspired at an early age while exploring the marshlands near her home.
