Mark Melia, Industry Veteran to Lead Pioneering Walla Walla Brands
April 21, 2016 (Walla Walla, WA) – Mark Melia joined Amavi Cellars and Pepper Bridge Winery as the National Sales Manager this month. He oversees distributor sales for the two Walla Walla estate wineries. Melia’s experience in distribution, on and off-premise sales, wineries and his overall passion for the wine business brought him to the pioneering Walla Walla group.
Growing up in Massachusetts in a wine drinking family gave Melia early exposure to many European wines and sparked an interest that led him to his career. From working in a small wine shop on Martha’s Vineyard over twenty years ago to running the wine program at the AAA Five Diamond rated Boulders Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona, Melia has an extensive background in both on and off-premise sales. Years working on the East Coast with distributors both small and large round out his experience.
An opportunity to run US sales for renowned Willamette Valley winery Penner-Ash Wine Cellars brought him to the Northwest. Melia subsequently worked with Scott Paul Wines as National Sales Manager before joining Amavi Cellars and Pepper Bridge Winery.
“Mark’s sales experience in a variety of wholesale channels is key for the growth of Amavi Cellars and Pepper Bridge Winery,” said Eric McKibben, General Manager and Partner. “Understanding the nature of boutique brands make him a great fit for our business.”
About Amavi Cellars
Amavi Cellars symbolizes love (amor) and life (vita) through its wines, which are 100% estate, 100% sustainable, and 100% Walla Walla Valley. Winemaker Jean-François Pellet brings the Walla Walla Valley AVA to life with his handcrafted, terroir-driven wines. Amavi Cellars is owned and operated by three families: the McKibbens, the Goffs and the Pellets, who not only are dedicated stewards of the land, but also are committed to producing premium quality wines that appeal to the palates and sense of aesthetics of today’s wine drinkers. www.amavicellars.com
About Pepper Bridge Winery
Pepper Bridge Winery represents the pioneering spirit of the Walla Walla Valley. Owned and operated by three families – the McKibbens, the Goffs and the Pellets, the winery is a leader in quality winemaking, innovative technology and vineyard development. Pepper Bridge Winery produces Bordeaux-style wines using traditional winemaking techniques, French oak and estate fruit from the Walla Walla Valley. Combining old-world philosophy with modern innovation, the winery has become an industry leader. www.pepperbridge.com
