Flat Rock Announces New Winemaker
Posted March 16, 2010March 16, 2010 - Flat Rock Cellars President, Ed Madronich is pleased to announce the appointment of Ross Wise as Flat Rock Cellars' Winemaker. The change has come about following Marlize Beyers' decision to spend more time with her family following her year-long maternity leave. Madronich supports Beyers' decision and is confident in his choice to move forward with Wise. "I give my best to Marlize in her desire to spend more time with her family, and I am very excited that Ross has the opportunity to continue to focus on producing world class cool climate wines."
No stranger to the winery, Ross Wise (who replaced Marlize during her maternity leave) originally joined the Flat Rock Cellars' winemaking team in 2006. He began his journey with Flat Rock Cellars as a Harvest Intern during the 2006 vintage and quickly became Assistant Winemaker following harvest and throughout 2007. After a second stint in New Zealand, Wise returns to Flat Rock Cellars as a Cool Climate specialist. His experience at New Zealand's premier Pinot Noir producer, Felton Road Wines in Central Otago, and Grove Mill Winery in Marlborough, New Zealand will serve him well in this role. Both wineries focus on the core varieties he is making here at Flat Rock Cellars. Wise's experience in making top notch Pinot Noirs, Rieslings and Chardonnays at Felton Road Wines and Grove Mill Winery coupled with his passion for vineyard management will surely lead to the production of some amazing wines beginning with the 2009 vintage. Wise's first wines at Flat Rock Cellars will be ready for enjoyment this spring.
