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Introducing Our New Winemakers

From left: Alex Stewart, Bryan Otis (proprietor), Jesse Schmidt, and Hal Iverson.

We are excited to introduce our new Matthews winemaking team: Alex Stewart, Hal Iverson, and Jesse Schmidt.

During their collective tenure at Quilceda Creek, the winemaking team contributed to the winery’s remarkable string of scores and accolades.

These individuals helped produce what is possibly "the best, most hedonistic Cabernet Sauvignon in America." We sure like the sound of that.

Going forward, our family is thrilled to work alongside Alex, Hal, and Jesse. Their reverence for the vineyards and sustainable approach to the winemaking process align perfectly with our mission here at Matthews, and we are eager to share these wines with our Matthews community.

Speaking on behalf of the winemaking team, Stewart notes that "it’s an honor to be entrusted with such a celebrated brand [as Matthews], and we are eager to work with some of the most diverse vineyard sites in Washington State."

"We’re excited to be a part of such a visionary winery,” adds Iverson. “The Otis family has an admirable passion for creativity, quality, and intentionality that aligns incredibly well with this winemaking team.”

"The potential for Matthews is limitless, thanks to the direction and leadership provided by the Otis family,” continues Schmidt. “I am thrilled to get the opportunity to join their team and work with some of the most historic vineyards in Washington."

Welcome to our next chapter of cultivating all the excellence that our local wine region has to offer.

Sincerely,

The Otis Family

Three winemakers and owner Bryan Otis standing in field with vineyards behind
From left: Alex Stewart, Bryan Otis (proprietor), Jesse Schmidt, and Hal Iverson.
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