Bella Vineyards

Ever since Ryan came to Bella as a harvest intern in 2012, his passion for zinfandel and Rhône varietals has been unwavering. With a PhD in organic chemistry, Ryan thoroughly understood the art of fermentation and was certainly overqualified as an intern. He soon took over Bella’s laboratory as Enologist. As enologist then Assistant Winemaker, Ryan meticulously carried out many experiments, from adjusting fermentation temperatures to varying grape skin contact time, learning more with each harvest and perfecting Bella’s winemaking techniques. Ryan left Bella for a time and became winemaker at Trattore. There, Ryan furthered his exploration of Rhone varietals and spent long hours in the vineyard, understanding the complex growing cycle and its impact on making extraordinary wines. Now as Bella’s Director of Production and winemaker, he is sure to elevate Bella’s already outstanding wines. When asked his feelings of Bella, he says, "Whether you come to Bella for one visit or spend most of your days here, it pulls you in; it beckons you back again and again. There is no place I’d rather be than right here, amidst our amazing vines and among friends."