Jose Luis Yanez, Director of Viticulture
Goldendale, Washington January 31, 2024— The V75 Vineyard announced the promotion of Jose Luis Yanez to the new position of Director of Viticulture, where he will oversee all aspects of the company’s vineyard operations. Mr. Yanez was previously the Manager for the last four years, and he was a vital contributor to establishing and maintaining the company’s premium vineyard. The new position enhances Mr. Yanez’s role, with the added responsibility of managing personnel decisions, chemigation, fertigation, irrigation and equipment maintenance.
“Jose has demonstrated unparalleled dedication and expertise in support of our vineyard over the last few years” said Gene Callan, President of V75, “and we look forward to his leadership carrying us into the future. He is a part of our vineyard family, and we are honored that he has accepted this well-deserved promotion.”
Jose and his wife, Cecilia, have their own vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Jose is active in his church, the Knights of Columbus and is a Parent Advisory Committee Officer for the Prosser School District’s Migrant Program.
30 Years in the Industry, and Lifelong Mentorship by Paul Champoux
Jose possesses a rich assortment of agricultural knowledge which was gained at several of Washington’s premium vineyards, including the renowned Champoux Vineyards. Jose credits Paul Champoux for mentoring and shaping his early years in the vineyard. “Jose always had a keen interest in plant nutrition,” said the famed 75-year-old Paul Champoux, from his home in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, “and I am proud of his continued growth in our Washington vineyard industry.”
Today, Jose will still occasionally call his old friend with a question on a unique condition in the vineyard. “I have worked in Washington’s agricultural world for the last thirty years and appreciate the lessons learned from many of our industry leaders including Paul, and Hipolito Vargas,” said Jose with a smile, “and I look forward to the continued development of our vineyard, which I believe is located in one of the best growing zones of the West Coast.”
The V75 Vineyard
Founded in 2017 through the inspiration of partner and titan of Washington wine, the late Allen Shoup, the V75 Vineyard developed its first 61 acres on virgin land on the Columbia River near Goodnoe Station Road in east Klickitat County, Washington. Mr. Shoup’s vision was to develop the State’s premier vineyard, taking advantage of the unique characteristics of the property, including ideal heat units, soils, wind, water and orientation. Today, the vineyard’s mission is solidly aimed at growing world-class grapes for premium wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Carmenere on the 75 planted acres of its 1,229-acre site.
