Wine Portfolio

Douglas Fletcher

Winemaker, Terlato Vineyards

I grew up in Oregon, was always interested in science and food, and went on to study Microbiology at the University of Oregon. My “aha” moment came when my college roommate’s family introduced me to an incredible Bordeaux on a picnic. We paired it with delicious cheeses and baguettes…wow!

I had always planned to go back to graduate school until I met the stepson of Martin Ray. He invited me to work a harvest at Martin Ray Winery. Champagne breakfasts with omelets out in the vineyards... I instantly fell in love with the wine business and decided not to go back to school. I spent years working with Martin Ray learning all aspects of winemaking. We sourced Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from Steltzner Vineyards. Steltzner was interested in starting his own winery so I joined him in the early ’80s. A few years later I met the founder of Chimney Rock and took a position as their head winemaker. I stayed at Chimney Rock until the winery was acquired by Terlato in 2001. Owner Tony Terlato and I hit it off from the start. Today I oversee the winemaking for Terlato Wines, and I’m probably one of, if not the longest-tenured winemakers in the Stags Leap District.

Country born: United States

Education: University of Oregon B.S.

Years in the wine industry: 30+ years