Will was born in the middle of Washington wine grape country. Growing up in the farming business on his family’s orchards, he has been around the area most of his life and has dedicated the past 23 years to producing the best possible grapes that have gone into some of the state’s leading wines. As a Vineyard Manager, Will’s goal was always to capture a sense of place and time through decisions made in the vineyard. Will’s vineyard management experience gives him unique expertise and point of view in evaluating properties across the Northwest.

 

In 2006, Will joined the Crimson Wine Group to manifest the founders’ vision though the meticulous development of Double Canyon’s estate vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills.  He subsequently helped guide the design and construction of their winery, development of their wine brand, and oversight of daily operations as General Manager for both the winery and vineyard.    

 

Early on, Will’s career took an unexpected turn towards wine after and interview with Mike Hogue for a job at Hogue Ranches.  Instead he was hired to join Hogue’s vineyard management team and began with the task of developing Zephyr Ridge vineyard for an ownership group comprised of some of the top winery and vineyard owners in the state.  Shortly after, Will’s family entered the wine business as well, developing Phinny Hill Vineyard, which has become one of the most highly regarded vineyards in the Northwest. 

 

Will graduated from Washington State University with a BA in Business Management and a minor in Horticulture. He lives in Prosser with his wife Amy and their son Ryan. His daughter Taylor has recently finished her degree at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. In his spare time he enjoys time with friends, high school sports, and the local restaurants.