Get to Know Assistant Winemaker Cortney Zolezzi

In 2016, Cortney stepped into a leadership role at PlumpJack Estate Winery as Assistant Winemaker. She learned fast and found herself shaping wines in a way she hadn’t before. Now, in honor of Women's History Month, she shares her perspective on what it was like.

“The first vintage I took part in crafting was in 2016. I had just been promoted from Odette Estate Winery as their Cellar Master to PlumpJack Estate Winery as their Enologist. It was a big jump responsibility-wise, because PlumpJack is a 3-person wrecking team and I was second in command. I had to learn our inventory software, become a master of the forklift, work cohesively with our winemaker, Aaron Miller, and manage our quirky cellar. I knew it was going to be a challenge but one I was ready to take on."

"I am not always a fan of Merlot grapes but after walking through our vineyards and learning Aaron’s philosophy, I was intrigued. Most of the Merlots I had tasted were from warmer climates, so they had a lot of jam notes. I could go as far as to say overripe characteristics. They lacked complexity and were very lean.

At PlumpJack, we get our fruit from Carneros and Oak Knoll, which are cooler climate AVAs. The grapes have a beautiful fresh blackberry/blueberry flavor as well as some floral and herb notes. Aaron incorporates about 8% American oak in the barrel program to give the wine more mid-pallet weight and a hint of vanilla. I can now say that I am a fan of OUR Merlot.”

“Being a woman in this male-dominated industry, I have always had to work harder, longer, and be louder to prove that I belong here. But I can honestly say that my hard work and dedication have never been overlooked at PlumpJack while working with Aaron Miller. I know he respects my opinion, and I am always heard. I am very grateful to work with him, and that is truly empowering.”

"I would open it with Barbara Walters and Merry Edwards. I have met Merry Edwards (one of California’s first female winemakers) once before, but I would love to open our Merlot and get her thoughts on our representation of the varietal and just hear all about her winemaking journey from her personally. She has done countless interviews, but I would love to hear it directly from her.

I grew up watching 20/20 and was always fascinated by Barbara Walters (the 1st female co-host of a network evening program). She interviewed every seated president and many leaders of countries, as well as the most popular/controversial people in the world. Her poise, as well as the way she spoke, was mesmerizing. I would love to sip on our Merlot and just listen to her speak about some of the most interesting people she ever interviewed."