(July 11, 2019; Saint Helena, Calif.)—Ehlers Estate, a 42-acre contiguous organically farmed estate vineyard in Napa Valley’s Saint Helena AVA, announced today that Katrina Van Aller has been hired as California direct to trade manager.
Katrina comes to Ehlers with over 20 years of experience in luxury wine and spirits sales for California-based wineries. She joins Ehlers from Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars, where she was regional sales manager from 2011 through 2019. During her tenure there, she achieved territory growth by 35% in accounts sold, and hosted numerous brand building events such as winemaker dinners, charity fundraisers, and private country club member tastings. Before that, she served as district sales manager for Treasury Wine Estates where she represented more than 23 brands. From 1999-2005, she was an account sales manager with Robert Mondavi Winery.
Born and raised in the metro-D.C. area, Katrina first discovered wine through her love of food, and her eventual work in restaurants while studying at Loyola College in Baltimore, Maryland.
“I am thrilled to help Ehlers grow its presence in California. Ehlers has always resonated with me—from the elegant wines to the amazing story of the Leducqs’ journey to St. Helena. I’m truly honored to be a part of the winery team and to work with winemaker and GM Laura Diaz Muñoz,” says Katrina.
In her free time, Katrina enjoys traveling, playing golf, spending time with her significant other, Russell, and enjoying their two rescue dogs Bella (Golden Retriever) and Haley (Border Collie Mix).
About Ehlers Estate
Just off Highway 29 in Saint Helena, in the midst of the prestige, showmanship and glitz that define many of the surrounding wineries, lies Ehlers Estate: a picturesque organically farmed 42-acre vineyard with a stone barn winery dating back to 1886, and a small, devoted winemaking and hospitality staff. At Ehlers Estate, a quiet presence and dedicated team speak loudly of its founding principles: a passion for wine, dedication to quality, and a commitment to a legacy.
The winery is owned by the Leducq Foundation, a trust established by Jean and Sylviane Leducq in 1996. The Leducqs’ love for all things food and wine brought them to the Napa Valley where they modeled the property after a traditional Bordeaux chateau. All of the wines are 100% estate-grown and produced. The vineyards, which are planted to Bordeaux varietals, are all certified organic by the CCOF.
In July of 2018 Laura Díaz Muñoz joined Ehlers Estate as winemaker and director of operations. Originally from Madrid, Spain, her old-world roots align with the Leducq vision to create a timeless and classic estate, while also maintaining the highest standards of excellence in winemaking through continuous exploration and refinement of vineyard and cellar practices.
