The story of Zefina first began in 1997 with the earliest plantings of grapevines along the dry hills high above the Columbia River at Alder Ridge Vineyard. Situated 15 miles west of the small town of Paterson, Washington, Alder Ridge is a sprawling 812-acre vineyard set atop a series of arid, sparsely vegetated ridges that shoot up nearly 1000 feet at their highest point above the great river below. It’s a little piece of heaven. The view is breathtaking—the bounty, endless.

Rob Chowanietz, a native of British Columbia, began his career in winemaking at Canoe Ridge Vineyard in Walla Walla, Washington in 1996 under the careful guidance of John Abbott. His first harvest was an eye-opening experience and John’s passion for fine wine was infectious. Rob was hooked.

Passionate about all aspects of winemaking, Rob’s educational background is a mix of science and agriculture. He studied health science at Walla WallaCollege, took courses in wine microbiology Washington State University, and studied winemaking at the University of California at Davis.

In the past, he has served as consulting winemaker for Washington Vintners, LLC where he led his winemaking team in successfully producing the inaugural vintage for the multi-million dollar start-up winery in downtown Walla Walla. Prior to that role, he honed his skills as cellar master for the famed Woodward Canyon Winery and production supervisor for Canoe Ridge Vineyard, both located in the Walla Walla Valley.

DATA COPIED FROM NATALIEMACLEAN.COM

Winemaker: Rob Chowanietz Update winery information Submit new wines to be posted