Zach Sitchler
Assistant Winemaker

As assistant winemaker, Zach is Alex Kanzler’s right hand on what is — for much of the year — just a two-person winemaking team. In addition to cellar and vineyard work, Zach is property manager of the estate, where he keeps the Vineyard House grounds and kitchen garden beautiful and in good repair. 

Zach was born and raised in Petaluma. Throughout high school he worked at a small bistro, where he was first exposed to the culinary and wine world. Although fascinated by food and wine, he started a career in commercial real estate, obtaining his California Real Estate License soon after graduation. He represented clients in sales and lease transactions throughout Sonoma and Marin County.

In the summer of 2015, Zach backpacked through Italy, France, Spain and many other countries. Drinking foreign wine (and beer) opened up a deeper appreciation for wine production. Within six months, he had taken two more trips back to Europe. Once back from his adventures, Zach’s mind was set on learning about winemaking. 

He went to Oregon to work his first harvest at Patricia Green Cellars. 

“Like most of us in the wine industry, it only took a few days working in the cellar before I was sold.”

He then came back home to Sonoma County and began working as a cellar assistant at Paul Hobbs Winery in Sebastopol.

Next he took on a harvest position under Ted Lemon at nearby Littorai Wines for the 2020 harvest. After wrapping up an early harvest season, he made his way up to Oregon once more to work for sparkling producer Argyle.

Now back home in Sonoma County, Zach is thrilled to be a part of the Kanzler team.