When she went off to college at Eastern Washington University in her hometown of Cheney, WA, Katie thought she wanted to focus on becoming an elementary school teacher. At the age of 21, however, she took a summer job at Arbor Crest Wine Cellars, and her interests began to shift. After two years working in the tasting room and helping with events, she realized that a career in wine was the way for her to make a living!
Katie then attended Walla Walla Community College where she graduated with a degree in Enology and Viticulture. She then spent a short amount of time in Prosser, WA interning for Chateau Ste Michelle Wine Estates in the vineyard and winery. After her internship, she continued her education at Central Washington University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree. Majoring in Global Wine Studies with a Minor in Tourism Management, along with Wine Trade Professional Certificate, Katie has a well-rounded knowledge of many levels within our intricate industry. Drawn to wine production, she also volunteered in local vineyards and managed the only winery in Ellensburg, WA.
While she enjoyed her time in Ellensburg, Katie could not resist the magnetism of the Walla Walla Valley’s wine community. She made the move in April of 2010 to manage the tasting room for Castillo de Feliciana, where she enjoyed sharing knowledge and experiences with customers for four years.
Katie joined our team in April of 2014, and is happy to be our Wine Club Manager. Full of ideas and enthusiasm, she is an important part of taking our club members’ experience at Pepper Bridge Winery to a whole new level.
Katie can be reached by emailing katie@pepperbridge.com or by calling 509-525-6502.