HEALDSBURG, Calif. (May 30, 2024) — Dry Creek Vineyard, one of Sonoma County’s last remaining private, family-owned wineries, has announced two key promotions to its critically acclaimed winemaking team.
Longtime winemaker Tim Bell, who has made every vintage of Dry Creek Vineyard since 2011, has been promoted to Director of Winemaking in recognition of the innovation and relentless pursuit of quality he has brought to the 52-year-old winery. Under Bell’s leadership, the winery has introduced unique clones and varieties, fusion barrels designed for deeper fruit expression in Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon, and other advancements that have consistently produced 90+ point wines, including two Wine Spectator Top 100 wines.
Brian Pruett, who joined the winery in 2017, has been promoted to Winemaker, and — as a key contributor on the winemaking team — will work to ensure that every wine is held to the highest standards of quality.
“We are a family-owned winery and have worked tirelessly to create a reputation for crafting elegant, balanced, food-friendly wines,” said Kim Stare Wallace, the second-generation owner and President who oversees the successful family business, including 185 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards. “Tim and Brian not only share that vision but are exceptional winemakers who focus on the details to deliver appellation-driven, terroir-focused wines that truly represent a sense of place.”
Before joining Dry Creek Vineyard, Bell worked with a wide range of grape varieties and wine styles in Napa Valley, Sonoma and the Central Coast. His creativity in blending and extensive experience shaping wine quality in the vineyard have created a style at Dry Creek Vineyard that is defined by its attention to varietal character.
Pruett has worked up and down California, across top vineyards and wineries, as well as harvests in New Zealand. From laboratory management to cellar supervision, he works to ensure that each wine delivers on the promise to maximize flavors with minimal intervention.
Dry Creek Vineyard crafts its signature wines from 100% certified-sustainable estate vineyards and from small, local family farms.
About Dry Creek Vineyard
Established in 1972 by David S. Stare, Dry Creek Vineyard is Dry Creek Valley’s flagship winery located in the heart of Sonoma County. Dave’s daughter, Kim Stare Wallace, serves as President overseeing a successful family winemaking and grape growing business that includes 185 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards. Named a Top 100 Winery by Wine & Spirits Magazine and a Top 10 Tasting Room by USA TODAY, the winery produces critically acclaimed Dry Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Meritage blends as well as a collection of single-vineyard wines. The winery is open daily for tours and tastings. www.drycreekvineyard.com
