January 12, 2026 (Napa, CA) — Bouchard Cooperages, a leading representative of premium oak solutions for the wine, spirits, and beer industries, as well as non-oak vessels for aging and fermentation, is pleased to welcome Richard Dempsey to its team as International Oak Alternatives Consultant, exclusively representing the premium French oak adjunct portfolio of CANADELL.
Richard brings over 10 years of experience in wine production and planning, with winemaking and laboratory roles at The Wine Group, Constellation Brands, and Monterey Wine Company. Holding a winemaking degree from UC Davis and an MBA from Sonoma State University, Richard has managed a wide range of production programs and stylistic approaches, giving him a uniquely practical perspective on the use of oak alternatives.
Having worked across diverse varietals, production scales, and commercial objectives, he understands how oak products can be applied strategically at multiple stages of production—from fermentation and aging through blending and finishing—to achieve specific sensory and structural outcomes. His hands-on experience allows him to translate technical options into practical, real-world solutions that align with stylistic intent, operational constraints, and long-term program goals.
“We are very excited to welcome Richard to our team,” said Kris Conemac, Managing Director of Bouchard Cooperages. “It’s a rare opportunity to work with someone who combines deep technical expertise with strong business acumen, and who can communicate so clearly and naturally with our clients.”
In his new role, Dempsey will work closely with producers and industry partners, advising on the selection and application of Canadell’s premium oak adjunct portfolio. His focus will include program development, technical consultation, and close collaboration with winemakers, distillers, and beverage producers seeking precise, repeatable oak solutions tailored to their production goals.
“Richard is approachable, thoughtful, and easy to talk to, which makes his technical expertise even more impactful,” said Paolo Bouchard, Business Development Manager of Bouchard Cooperages. “I’m especially enthusiastic about the opportunity for him to collaborate with our diverse and talented group of clients, and for them to benefit directly from his practical, intuitive approach.”
Dempsey will collaborate closely with Bouchard Cooperages’ sales and technical teams across key global regions, supporting existing clients while also contributing to the company’s continued international growth. His role will emphasize education, program design, and long-term partnership, ensuring producers can integrate oak alternatives with clarity, confidence, and precision.
About Bouchard Cooperages
Bouchard Cooperages is a leading supplier of oak products, including barrels, adjuncts, and tanks, as well as alternative vessels for aging and fermentation made from clay, ceramics, concrete, glass, and steel. Since 1979, Bouchard Cooperages has served the international winemaking community with a strong focus on quality and customer service. Today, thousands of clients worldwide trust Bouchard Cooperages products to support their production goals. Learn more at www.bouchardcooperages.com.
About Canadell
Canadell is a family-owned French oak specialist company with more than four generations of experience, since 1939. Rooted in traditional savoir-faire and a deep respect for forest resources, Canadell produces premium oak staves and oak alternatives for the wine, spirits, and cooperage industries. With a focus on quality, traceability, and consistency from forest to finished product, Canadell is trusted by many of the top wine and spirits producers worldwide. Learn more at www.canadell.com.
