September 17, 2025 (Windsor, CA) — Browne Family Wines is proud to announce the appointment of Mike Haney as General Manager for its acclaimed wine brands CIRQ and CHEV.
Haney is a respected leader in the wine industry with more than four decades of experience. For the past 11 years, he served as Executive Director of Sonoma County Vintners (SCV) and Sonoma County Vintners Foundation, where he played a pivotal role in elevating Sonoma County’s global reputation as a premier winegrowing region. During his tenure, he spearheaded political advocacy and international trade initiatives, led SCV efforts in response to pandemic and wildfires impacts, expanded community and philanthropic partnerships, and championed the region’s diverse vintners on the world stage.
In his new role, Haney will oversee all aspects of the CIRQ and CHEV business, working closely with founders Sarah and Michael Browne to continue advancing their vision of crafting exceptional, small-lot wines that reflect the character of the best wine regions in California.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mike to the Browne Family Wines team,” said Michael Browne, Co-Founder and Winemaker. “His leadership at the Sonoma County Vintners and deep connections across the industry make him the ideal person to guide CIRQ and CHEV into their next exciting chapter.”
Haney shared his enthusiasm about joining the Browne Family Wines team: “Michael and Sarah have built something truly remarkable with CIRQ and CHEV. I look forward to carrying their vision forward and to strengthening the connection between our wines, our members, and the broader wine community.”
The private estate winery, located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, is a hilltop gem. Tours and tastings are accessible by appointment and availability. Surrounded by spectacular 360-degree views, the property is the perfect fit for CHEV and CIRQ and is their forever home
About CHEV
CHEV is sparked by Michael’s love and appreciation for old-school craftsmanship. From classic cars to vintage clocks, CHEV pays tribute to bygone days when artisans crafted in their forge and the raw material was hand-wrought to expert precision. Just like our grapes—exquisitely grown by master farmers, curated from renowned sites, and refined to delicious detail in our family shop. Crafted in its own style, CHEV is unbounded by region, born from exceptional vineyards, near and far. To learn more, please visit: www.chevwines.com
About CIRQ
CIRQ launched in 2009, with Michael’s passion for making delicious wines from the Russian River Valley’s most exceptional sites. Inspired by his childhood circus-performing days, our winery ringmaster brings the same intense study, balance, and finesse to CIRQ – superbly blending the highest quality fruit from the Valley’s prime vineyards. The result is the best Pinot Noir possible through his lens, where uncommon breeding meets unprecedented flavors for the ultimate expression of this magical region. To learn more, please visit: www.cirq.com
