June 26, 2026 (Willow Creek District, Paso Robles, CA) — Pelletiere Estate has announced a transition in its vineyard management, appointing Fortitude Ag and Drago VX as its new farming partners across its premier estate vineyards in the Willow Creek District. The change marks a new chapter for the winery’s farming program, emphasizing communication-driven decision-making and long-term vineyard health.
Fortitude Ag, a newly established Central Coast agricultural services company led by Victor Guerrero, will oversee stewardship of Pelletiere Estate’s vineyards. Formed in response to the unique needs of Pelletiere Estate, company delivers precision-driven vineyard and farm management services supporting both established vineyards and emerging properties seeking elevated farming standards and operational clarity.
In partnership with Drago VX Farm Labor Company led by Ivan Gonzales, Fortitude Ag will direct all winegrowing activities across the estate. Working closely with owners Janis Pelletiere and Morgan Stepp, as well as the winemaking team, the partnership aims to refine vineyard balance, improve operational efficiency, and elevate farming practices and operational systems across all estate vineyards.
“We’re very hands-on and want to be involved in every aspect of what goes into the wines we share in our tasting room,” said Morgan Stepp, co-owner of Pelletiere Estate. “So this partnership lets us be more intentional and engaged in our farming decisions.”
Guerrero holds a Bachelor of Science in Viticulture with a minor in Plant Protection from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He brings more than a decade of vineyard experience across California’s Central Coast, including Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, as well as Napa Valley. He holds multiple certifications, including a California Pest Control Adviser License, International Certified Crop Adviser designation, Western Region Certified Crop Adviser certification, and a Qualified Applicator License.
“We bring our expertise to the table and collaborate with all winery teams to determine the best approach for each vineyard based on its needs and long-term goals,” said Guerrero, co-founder of
Fortitude Ag. “Our focus is on building trust through transparency and communication while tailoring farming practices to drive healthier vineyards and higher-quality fruit.”
Drago VX, led by Ivan Gonzales, will provide vineyard labor services across the estate. Gonzales earned a Bachelor of Science in Viticulture from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He and Guerrero share a long history of collaboration built on years of working together in Central Coast vineyards.
“We’ve identified opportunities to refine nutrition programs, improve floor management, and bring canopy growth into better seasonal balance,” said Gonzales. “We’re excited to be part of these changes at Pelletiere Estate and work with the rare Italian varieties they specialize in.”
“Our focus has always been on building something that lasts,” said Janis Pelletiere. “This partnership came together fortuitously and strengthens our continued commitment to the land, the vineyard, and the legacy we hope to pass on through every vintage.”
Pelletiere Estate is a boutique winery in the Willow Creek District of Paso Robles known for its estate-grown Italian varietals and site-driven winemaking approach. The transition to Fortitude Ag and Drago VX reflects the winery’s continued commitment to elevating vineyard quality through responsive, collaborative, and communication-focused farming partnerships.
