Jessica Van Grieken appointed executive director of Anderson Valley Winegrowers
The Anderson Valley wine-industry veteran will focus on partnerships, the valley’s agricultural heritage and its future development, beginning with the International White Wine Festival in February 2027.
New leadership in Anderson Valley
Jessica Van Grieken has become executive director of Anderson Valley Winegrowers. The appointment was announced on October 27, 2026, in Philo, California. A longtime Anderson Valley resident, she has worked in the region’s wine industry for 12 years and plans to strengthen industry partnerships while preserving the valley’s agricultural heritage and supporting its continued development.1
Van Grieken grew up in Texas and Belgium, where her extended family’s home winemaking introduced her to wine. She later moved to California to attend the University of Redlands, earning a degree in environmental science and business, and settled in Philo 11 years ago.1
Her professional experience includes work at Toulouse Vineyards and several years managing Twomey Cellars. She has also consulted for Anderson Valley businesses including Fathers + Daughters, Signal Ridge Vineyards and Filigreen Farms. Van Grieken and her husband, Matt Barnes, care for six rescue dogs; their interests include paddleboarding, horseback riding and gardening.1
International White Wine Festival returns in 2027
Van Grieken’s first major event in the role will be the International White Wine Festival, scheduled for February 27–28, 2027. The festival will feature Anderson Valley’s Alsatian-style white wines, Chardonnay and sparkling wines alongside other whites from around the world. Dedicated tables will examine individual varieties and styles, including Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay and White Pinot Noir.1
The main tasting will take place at the Mendocino County Fairgrounds on Saturday, February 27, 2027. VIP admission begins at 11 AM, while general admission runs from 12 PM to 3 PM. The program will pair the wines with shucked oysters, local seafood, cheeses made with Anderson Valley goat milk, fresh produce and dishes prepared by chefs from across Mendocino County; music and raffles are also planned.1
Winery open houses will follow on Sunday, February 28, with food pairings, special discounts and opportunities to speak with winemakers. Anderson Valley Winegrowers advises visitors to buy tickets and reserve accommodation early, describing the festival as an event that regularly sells out.1
Sources
Written by the Dionysus editors from the sources above.
