May 6, 2026 (Rough & Ready, CA) — Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP) today announced a major leadership transition alongside exciting updates to its flagship events, marking both a moment of reflection and a bold step forward for the Zinfandel community. After 29 years as Executive Director, Rebecca Robinson will retire effective June 30, 2026, leaving an extraordinary legacy. During her tenure, ZAP became the leading voice for Zinfandel—championing Zinfandel preservation, advancing education, and building a deeply engaged community of producers and enthusiasts. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as Executive Director of ZAP for the past three decades,” said Rebecca Robinson. “Together, we have built a remarkable community—one rooted in friendship, shared passion, and a deep respect for Zinfandel and the people behind it. I am incredibly grateful to our Board of Directors, our winery partners, sponsors and our advocate members for their unwavering support and belief in this mission.”
ZAP also announces the retirement of Glenda Cunningham, who has served as Winery and Sponsor Manager for 17 years. Glenda played a vital role in cultivating partnerships, helping shape the collaborative spirit and success of ZAP’s programs and events.
As part of this transition, ZAP will continue under a streamlined organizational structure managed by Jesmine Reymond, ensuring continuity across membership, communications, and events. Jesmine has been with ZAP for the past four years and brings strong operational experience, along with a deep understanding of the organization’s programs and community. This leadership transition coincides with some milestones to ZAP’s signature events, both of which are evolving to offer relevant and immersive experiences for the Zinfandel community. Two flagship gatherings are on the horizon—bringing with them new venues, fresh formats, and the same spirit of celebration that has defined ZAP for decades.
Join us on June 6 for Z-Grand Tasting at Gallery 308 at Fort Mason, San Francisco
Set along the San Francisco waterfront, Z-Grand continues to offer a vibrant, curated tasting experience featuring top producers, thoughtful food pairings, and a dynamic, social atmosphere. Tickets are on sale now and moving quickly.
ZinEX Moves to Healdsburg – January 29 – 30, 2027
ZAP’s flagship winter event enters a new era with a refreshed format and locations. Events are under still development, but include:
- Friday, January 29 – Dinner with Icons at Seghesio Family Vineyards
- Saturday, January 30 – The Tasting at Coyote Sonoma
- Tasting and Seminar sponsored by Sonoma County Winegrowers
This intimate experience will bring guests closer to the essence of Zinfandel—fostering direct connections with winemakers and deeper exploration of vineyard stories. VIP Packages will go on sale in July, followed by a la carte ticket options for the Tasting. Watch for more information: www.zinfandelexperience.com
Looking Ahead. Over the coming year, the ZAP Board of Directors will take this moment as an opportunity to shape the organization’s future through a strategic exploration—reimagining programs, partnerships, and new ways to grow engagement with Zinfandel while staying true to its mission of preservation, education, and advocacy.
Board of Directors. Zinfandel Advocates & Producers is guided by a Board representing a dynamic cross-section of California’s wine community:
Executive Leadership
- Erin Cline, President — Three Wine Company
- Randle Johnson, Vice President — Calafia Winery
- Donald Laffert, Secretary — At-Large Member
- Mark Vernon, Treasurer — Ridge Vineyards
Board Members
- Doug Beckett — Peachy Canyon Winery
- Robert Biale — Robert Biale Vineyards
- Duane Dappen — At-Large Member
- Megan Foley — Rombauer Vineyards
- Agostino ‘Gus’ Gamba — Gamba Vineyards
- Jeannie Graham — At-Large Member
- Natasha Hayes — At-Large Member
- Tobin Heminway — Green & Red Vineyards
- Brandon Lapides — At-Large
- Joel Peterson — Once & Future Wine
- Andy Robinson — Seghesio Family Vds
- Shauna Rosenblum — Ridge Vineyards
- Miro Tcholakov — Trentadue
- Diane Wilson — Wilson Artisan Wines
About Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP)
Zinfandel Advocates & Producers is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Zinfandel as a key part of California’s wine heritage. Through education, advocacy, and immersive events, ZAP connects wine lovers with the vineyards, winemakers, and stories that define this uniquely American grape for 35 years.
