Jenner, Calif. (January 10, 2019) – Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery has announced the appointment of Mick Roberts as Director of National Sales. In this role Roberts will oversee the winery’s wholesale efforts with both on and off-premise accounts, regional accounts, national chains and more. He will also be responsible for sales of Sea Slopes, the more affordable line of Sonoma Coast wines produced by Fort Ross Winery.
Roberts has an impressive track record in wine sales, marketing, and consulting with over two decades of experience in the industry. Prior to joining Fort Ross he held positions as National Sales Manager for Locations Wine by Dave Phinney and Central Division Manager for Aveníu Brands. Earlier in his career he worked for Constellation Brands, Romano Beverage and E & J Gallo Winery. Roberts earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Rochester Institute of Technology, where he studied Hotel and Restaurant Management.
“We’re excited to have Mick on board spearheading our sales efforts as the winery continues to expand on a national basis,” said Lester Schwartz, owner and co-founder of Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery. “I have no doubt that his deep knowledge of the wine and spirits industry will be a valuable asset as we broaden our reach to retailers and consumers throughout the U.S.”
Lester and Linda Schwartz established Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery on the coastal ridges above the Pacific Ocean near the historic Russian settlement of Fort Ross in western Sonoma County. The year 2000 marked the first vintage they produced Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinotage from their 53-acre vineyard. The spectacular, high-elevation vineyard lies within the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA, which the Schwartzes were instrumental in establishing.
To learn more, visit www.fortrossvineyard.com. For trade inquiries, please contact Johanna Bernstein, Vice President of Marketing at (415) 401-8555 or sales@fortrossvineyard.com.
