March 3, 2025 (Rutherford, CA) — Established in 1938, fourth-generation family-owned and operated Terlato Wine Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Stephanie Jacobs as the new Winemaker for Rutherford Hill Winery. Stephanie’s extensive experience and leadership will be vital as the winery continues to uphold its 50-year legacy of crafting world-class wines.
With over 20 years of winemaking expertise, including two decades at Cakebread Cellars, Stephanie brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role. Throughout her career, she has managed every aspect of winemaking, from viticultural strategies and harvest operations to blending, fermentation, and inventory management. Stephanie is a proven leader with a track record of guiding diverse teams and managing complex operations with exceptional skill.
Sandra LeDrew, Chief Operating Officer of Terlato Wine Group, shared, “Stephanie’s ability to collaborate across departments, her strategic vision for growing wine programs, and her unwavering commitment to excellence have earned her great respect within the industry. We are confident that her leadership and technical expertise will further elevate the exceptional quality Rutherford Hill Winery is known for.”
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Science in Fermentation Science from the University of California, Davis, and a Wine Business Management Certificate from Sonoma State University. Her dedication to education and industry development has played a key role in her success.
Stephanie expressed her excitement about the opportunity, stating, “I’m thrilled to return to my Rutherford roots and join the Terlato family and the iconic Rutherford Hill Winery in the heart of Napa Valley. I look forward to collaborating with this talented and passionate team to craft exceptional wines that will enhance our elevated hospitality experience and offer guests a truly unforgettable journey through the world of fine wine.”
Stephanie’s work has earned recognition from prestigious industry publications, with one of her standout achievements being a 100-point rating from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate for the Dancing Bear Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon. In addition to her winemaking accomplishments, she has developed strong relationships with industry critics, journalists, and influencers, serving as a respected spokesperson at both company-sponsored and industry events.
About Terlato Wine Group
Terlato Wine Group is a leading importer, distributor, and marketer of premium wines from around the world. With a passion for excellence and a commitment to exceptional service, Terlato represe nts a curated selection of wines that exemplify the artistry and traditions of renowned wine regions. The company’s network spans across North America, bringing the best of the wine world to wine enthusiasts everywhere. For more information, please visit www.terlato.com. A complete list of Terlato’s portfolio brands can be found here.
