Doug Gore

Doug Gore Courtesy: Ste. Michelle Wine Estates

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, based in Woodinville, Washington, announced the retirement of Doug Gore, executive vice president of winemaking, vineyards and operations. Ste. Michelle also announced the promotions of two vice presidents.

Gore, a longtime Washington wine industry leader, will retire effective Dec. 31. Gore’s 36-year career with Ste. Michelle coincided with the development of Washington’s modern wine industry and the creation of Washington State University’s viticulture and enology institution, the Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Wine Science Center.

“Doug has made an indelible imprint on our organization and the Washington wine industry,” said Jim Mortensen, Ste. Michelle’s president and CEO, in a news release. “He led teams researching the best practices, identifying the next great growing regions and creating highly rated wines across price categories.”

Juan Muñoz-Oca has been named to succeed Gore. Currently overseeing six of Ste. Michelle’s Washington state wineries, Muñoz-Oca will be responsible for all of Ste. Michelle’s facilities in Washington, Oregon and California, effective Jan. 1.

“I am incredibly grateful for the 18 years I’ve spent working with Doug,” Muñoz-Oca said. “I’ve had the great fortune to make wine all over the world, but I’ve learned more during my time working with Doug than in any of my previous roles. I’m honored to carry that legacy of discovery and innovation forward.”

Bob Bertheau, currently overseeing Chateau Ste. Michelle and Col Solare wineries, has been promoted to senior vice president of winemaking, effective Jan. 1. Bertheau will report to Muñoz-Oca.

-by Jonelle Mejica