After seven and a half years of leadership, DeGraff reflects on the people, partnerships, and community spirit that make Anderson Valley one of the world’s most special wine regions.
June 23, 2026 (Anderson Valley, CA) — The Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association (AVWA) announced today that Executive Director Courtney DeGraff will transition from her role effective June 30, 2026, after more than seven years leading the organization and promoting Anderson Valley wines and community initiatives. Since joining AVWA in 2019, DeGraff has worked alongside the Board of Directors, members, and community partners to elevate awareness of Anderson Valley wines while strengthening the organization’s programs and community impact. During her tenure, and through the development and successful execution of the organization’s five-year strategic plan, AVWA expanded membership and its signature events, increased national and international media and trade engagement, developed strategic partnerships with California Wines, Visit California, and regional organizations, strengthened digital marketing and tourism initiatives, developed historical archives, and established new philanthropic programs, supported by annual fundraisers and community partners.
“Serving the Anderson Valley community has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my professional life,” said DeGraff. “I deeply believe this is one of the world’s most special wine regions, and its people are the true terroir of Anderson Valley. Collaboration, friendship, a shared way of life, and trust are woven into the fabric of this community and are foundational to how wines are grown, made, and shared with the world. Together, we’ve built meaningful momentum in promoting the appellation while also investing in the broader community. Anderson Valley is truly tiny but mighty, and I have no doubt its best chapters are still ahead.”
DeGraff will be joining Russian Riverkeeper as the Development Director, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the Russian River watershed through advocacy, education, and community engagement.
“One of the things I discovered during my time with AVWA is that I am deeply energized by building partnerships and developing resources that create lasting community impact,” said DeGraff. “Launching our online auction in 2019, establishing the Anderson Valley Wines Community Fund in 2025, and developing scholarship support for local youth reinforced my passion for mission-driven, community-based work. Protecting and advocating for one of Northern California’s most important natural resources feels like a meaningful next chapter.”
The AVWA Board of Directors has begun a thoughtful transition process and has initiated a search for the organization’s next Executive Director. DeGraff remained committed to supporting the organization through the successful completion of the 27th Annual Pinot Noir Festival, which sustained strong attendance and community support despite ongoing economic headwinds and a transition from its traditional May date to June. She has also assisted with transition planning to help ensure organizational continuity.
“I’ve spent my life in Anderson Valley and served on this Board for twelve years, so I’ve seen a lot of change,” said Norman Kobler, owner of Philo Vineyard Solutions and Vonarburg Vineyard, whose parents founded Lazy Creek Vineyards in 1973. “Courtney helped bring renewed energy and confidence to this community. She reminded us that although we’re a small region, our wines and our people have a story worth sharing with the world. We’re grateful for everything she has done for Anderson Valley and wish her nothing but success in this next chapter.”
About the Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association
Founded in 1983, the Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association (AVWA) represents 24 vineyard members, 68 winery members, and 58 associate members dedicated to promoting and protecting the Anderson Valley appellation through marketing, education, and community initiatives. Learn more at www.avwines.com.
