Jay Christianson

Jay Christianson grew up working on the family estate (everything from cellar rat to national sales) and as an adult found his own love of wine and winemaking. Since 2007, Jay has lead all winemaking at CWC under the direction and tutelage of Robert Pepi.  Jay believes that great wines are made in the vineyard and as a winemaker, he gently guides their development through the fermentation and aging process until they are ready for release.

In 2011,  Jay and his wife Jennifer, took over the leadership of Canyon Wind Cellars.  With an ever-growing passion for wine and a drive to see the Colorado Wine Industry continue to grow, they are excited to represent the second generation of Canyon Wind Cellars.

Jennifer Christianson

Jennifer joined both the Christianson and Canyon Wind Cellars families in 2010.  With a degree in Geology (a common theme in the Colorado wine industry) and a background in non-profit leadership and event planning, her talents were quickly put to work crafting and perfecting the tasting room experience.  A quick learner and avid wine drinker lead Jennifer to quickly enter into the winemaking side of the winery as well.

Finley

Having joined the family in July 2010, resident Labrador Retriever, Finley, already holds a number of important positions at a very young age. He acts as both the Chief Canine Officer ensuring our staff members are happy and the Official Greeter, welcoming all guests to our winery and vineyard in Palisade.

Still a puppy in age (though not size), Finley can frequently be found mulching old vines, testing grapes and cleaning up any wine spills. When not distracted by the rows of vines and all of the incredible scents that accompany them, he is working hard to learn the responsibilities of being CWC’s official winery dog.

Robert Pepi

Robert (Bob) Pepi is a world-renowned Napa Valley winemaker who joined Canyon Wind Cellars in its infancy to contribute his expertise in winemaking. Under his careful supervision and direction, Canyon Wind Cellars has produced many award-winning estate wines since the first crush in 1996. A true visionary in the California wine industry, as well as an innovator in winemaking (Bob was instrumental in developing the “Two-Hearted Canopy” trellising system, also known as the Geneva Double Curtain), Canyon Wind is honored to have direction from such a unique talent.

Norman & Ellen Christianson

Norman’s passion for wine took him across five continents as he searched for the perfect location for a vineyard. His eye as a trained geologist recognized the unique setting in Palisade, Colorado – the cobblestone bench, abundant water, fertile soil, cool mountain breezes and low humidity – all perfect for growing high-altitude wine grapes. He combined his passion and vision into an estate vineyard and winery that consistently creates award-winning wines.  Along with his wife Ellen, they laid down the roots of Canyon Wind Cellars.