Steve Thomas and Gary Bodine Join the Team
Lower Lake, CA (April 12, 2021) – Shannon Family of Wines has announced the appointment of two new members to their national sales team. Steve Thomas is the new West Region Sales Manager and Gary Bodine is the new South Region Sales Manager. Thomas and Bodine will report directly to Brian Altomari, Vice President of Sales. Both appointments are effective immediately.
Steve Thomas has 25 years of experience in the wine and alcohol beverage industry including Off-Premise National Account Manager for Boisset Collection where he was responsible for all National Chain accounts at the distributor level. Thomas also held positions at William Foley Enterprises, Vintage Point Sales and Marketing, American Wine & Spirits, and Beringer Blass Wine Estates. Thomas is a former Marine and has taken several oenology and wine courses at Beringer Blass, UCLA, and Orange Coast College.
“I am excited to join a company like Shannon Family of Wines. They value their employees and have created a positive team atmosphere, while showcasing premium wines at a great value.
Altomari stated “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Steve for the past 5 years and I know exactly what he’s going to bring to the table. With his tremendous skills in fostering relationships, building brands, and understanding western chain outlets inside and out, he will be a force for Shannon Family of Wines.”
Gary Bodine has over 30 years of experience in sales and marketing, most recently with Rutherford Wine Company where he grew the Texas market over 20%. He has also held positions at Excelsior Wine Company, Banfi Vintners, Coca-Cola, and Constellation Brands. Bodine was a food marketing major at St. Joseph’s University where he earned a Bachelor of Science. Bodine is WSET II Certified.
“I am thrilled to be joining the team at Shannon Family of Wines,” said Bodine. “Clay and Angie are committed to growing and producing the very best fruit from Lake County using sustainable practices and it’s a story that I am excited to share.”
Altomari says “Gary brings a wealth of industry experience and we’re beyond excited to have him on our team. One of the most trusted, organized, and respected voices in Texas will help to explode growth in the South Region for Shannon Family of Wines.”
About Shannon Family of Wines
The Shannon family is committed to preserving their land, not only for the great vineyard sites but also for the bear, elk, mountain lions, eagles and other creatures which live there. Of their approximately 2,500 acres, only about 45% have been converted to vineyards. The balance of the land has been preserved for the wildlife which wanders through the property from the expansive wilderness areas adjoining the ranches. The vineyards were carefully planned out, leaving corridors open to migrating animals, protecting sensitive nesting areas, and will be 100% Certified Organically farmed this year.
The Shannon Family of Wines portfolio includes Buck Shack, Clay Shannon, Giannecchini, High Valley, OVIS, Shannon Ridge, Steele Wines, and Urgency. www.shannonridge.com
