Following the retirement of veteran winemaker Cary Gott, Pierson joins Winemaker Bob Cabral
in shaping the next chapter of Bricoleur’s acclaimed, sustainably crafted wines
November 18, 2025 (Windsor, CA) — Bricoleur Vineyards, the Sonoma County estate celebrated for its distinctive wine and food pairings, sustainable farming, and warm hospitality, proudly announces the promotion of Tom Pierson to Winemaker, following the retirement of industry icon Cary Gott. Pierson, who has worked closely with Gott and fellow Winemaker Bob Cabral since 2019, will now lead the next chapter of Bricoleur’s cellar alongside Cabral, continuing a tradition of craftsmanship rooted in family, innovation, and purpose.
“Tom has been instrumental in shaping Bricoleur’s ethos, guiding the team in both vineyard and cellar operations,” said Sarah Citron, CEO of Bricoleur Vineyards. “His promotion ensures the next generation of Bricoleur winemaking builds on Cary’s extraordinary legacy while continuing to produce wines that reflect the unique terroir of Sonoma County and our belief that wine is about more than what’s in the glass: it’s about fostering connection, creating traditions, and savoring shared moments.”
Crafting the Next Chapter of Bricoleur Winemaking
Pierson joined Bricoleur Vineyards as Assistant Winemaker in 2019, bringing with him a degree in agricultural science, a Winemaking Certificate from UC Davis, and early experience at Punchdown Cellars in Santa Rosa, where he refined his craft in both vineyard and cellar work.
Working within Bricoleur’s 63-acre organically farmed estate, spanning Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley and Fountaingrove District, Pierson quickly embraced the winery’s vineyard-first philosophy, which honors the land and crafts expressive, site-driven wines. His hands-on approach and technical precision mirrored the ethos established by mentors Cary Gott, whose more than 55 vintages helped define California wine, and Bob Cabral, Wine Enthusiast’s 2011 Winemaker of the Year.
“Working with Cary and Bob reinforced that great winemaking starts in the vineyard,” said Pierson. “As we enter this next chapter at Bricoleur, I’m focused on carrying that philosophy forward—crafting wines that reflect the land and inspiring a new generation to see how thoughtful, well-made wines can elevate the dinner table and bring people together.”
This philosophy has earned Bricoleur recognition across the industry. Wine Spectator’s James Molesworth called the winery “one of the rare producers excelling in both Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.” Wine Enthusiast awarded the 2021 Estate Grown Special Selection Pinot Noir 94 points, while the 2025 Sunset International Wine Competition named the Kick Ranch Viognier and Cabernet Sauvignon Best in Class, with 98 and 97 points, respectively.
Leadership for the Next Generation
Pierson’s promotion further defines the new chapter unfolding at Bricoleur Vineyards, following the appointment of co-founder Sarah Citron as CEO earlier this year. Under Citron’s leadership, and with the continued dedication of its talented winemaking team, Bricoleur is entering a new era—one rooted in family, driven by purpose, and guided by a deep respect for the land. Her vision continues to shape Bricoleur’s evolution as a modern lifestyle winery that unites fine wine, thoughtful cuisine, and genuine hospitality.
Looking ahead, the estate will expand national distribution, deepen direct-to-consumer relationships, and advance regenerative farming across its vineyards, all while continuing to create experiences that celebrate connection through wine and food. Guided by a shared commitment to excellence and sustainability, Bricoleur is shaping a dynamic future that reflects the best of Sonoma County’s land, people, and spirit.
About Bricoleur Vineyards
Tucked away in an expansive, stunning estate amid Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley, Bricoleur Vineyards has gained acclaim for its exceptional wines designed for food pairing. Bricoleur’s award-winning winemaking team — Thomas Pierson and Bob Cabral — sources grapes from its two estate properties and select heritage vineyards in Sonoma County. Bricoleur’s allure lies in its incredible terroir that grows the best grapes, herbs, edible flowers, and produce imaginable. The 40-acre estate is home to a renowned culinary program, anchored by a wine-first philosophy and led by Executive Chef Todd Knoll and Senior Sous Chef River Robinson, whose estate-to-plate menus reflect the seasonality of the land and source ingredients from the winery’s internationally acclaimed culinary gardens. As a family-owned winery, Bricoleur is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, family-friendly environment (dogs are welcome too) and hosts numerous events throughout the year that bring the community together. To learn more about Bricoleur Vineyards, visit bricoleurvineyards.com
