Brian and Stephy Terrizzi named ‘Wine Industry Persons of the Year’
Wine Alliance installs 2026 board of directors at annual gala
– The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance announced Brian and Stephy Terrizzi, owners of Giornata Wines and Etto Pastificio, as the 2025 Paso Robles Wine Industry Persons of the Year.
The Terrizzis are the owners of Giornata Wines and Etto Pastificio. Giornata Wines was founded with the goal of producing wines made from Italian grape varieties grown in California, reflecting Italian winemaking philosophy. Their interest in Italian culture also led to the creation of Etto Pastificio, a pasta factory and market located in Tin City.
Etto Pastificio supports the community through the Etto Pasta School Program, which provides pasta to dozens of schools and thousands of California school children.
“We are truly honored by this recognition,” Brian and Stephy Terrizzi said. “Paso Robles is defined by its collaborative spirit, and we are extremely proud and grateful to be a part of this community.”
The Terrizzis were nominated and selected by the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance membership, which represents more than 500 companies, including wineries, vineyards, and associated businesses. They will be recognized at the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance Annual Gala on Thursday, Jan. 29, at CASS Winery. The event is sold out. Elected officials and representatives from national, state, and local offices will attend the event.
“Each year, the Annual Gala is an opportunity for our wine community to celebrate the individuals who help drive our region forward, and we’re thrilled to honor Brian and Stephy Terrizzi this year,” said Joel Peterson, chief executive officer of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. “Brian and Stephy truly embody the spirit of entrepreneurship, quality, and community that defines Paso Robles Wine Country.”
The Annual Gala also serves as the formal installation of the 2026 board of directors for the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance.
The 2026 board members are Josh Beckett of Écluse Wines and Thibido Winery; Maggie Cameron of The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar and Della’s Woodfired Pizza & Cocktails; Cris Cherry, chair, of MAHA Estate and Villa Creek Cellars; Randy Heinzen, treasurer, of Coakley Vineyard and Vineyard Professional Services; Andrew Jones of Field Recordings; Drew Nenow of Nenow Family Wines; Maeve Pesquera, vice chair, of O’Neill Vintners & Distillers and Robert Hall Winery; Victor Popp of La Quinta Inn & Suites; Molly Scott of JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery; Michelle Thacher, secretary, of Thacher Winery & Vineyard; and Maggie Tillman of Alta Colina Vineyard & Winery.
Andrew Jones, Drew Nenow, and Maggie Cameron are new members of the board.
Current staff members of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance include Joel Peterson, chief executive officer; Christopher Taranto, director of trade relations; Krista Smith, marketing and communications director; Carol Yeaman-Sanchez, development director; Jamie Guzman, events manager; Jessica Locklin, membership engagement coordinator; Patricia Wilmore, government affairs coordinator; and Peggy Coon, bookkeeper.
The organization updated two staff roles as part of its continued growth and outreach efforts. Taranto will now focus on industry education and strengthening relationships with sommeliers, buyers, and other trade partners. Smith expanded her role to include media and influencer communications.
The staff changes align with the organization’s core pillars of marketing and communications, trade relations, advocacy and community, and member support, which were affirmed through a collaborative strategic planning process completed last year.
More information about Brian and Stephy Terrizzi is available through the Where Wine Takes You podcast. Additional information about the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance is available at Pasowine.com.
