Grgich Hills Estate Announces New Director of Global Sales

Iconic Napa Winery Hires Elizabeth Barnard to Oversee Driving the Growth of Global Wholesale Business

NAPA, Calif., April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Consistently recognized for its historic contributions to Napa Valley and regenerative organic certified luxury portfolio, Grgich Hill Estate is pleased to announce the appointment of Elizabeth Barnard as Director of Global Sales. With over a decade of experience in the wine industry, Elizabeth brings a dynamic approach to expanding Grgich Hills' global presence, while upholding the winery's commitment to excellence in luxury across winemaking and eco-consciousness.

"We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth to the Grgich Hills Estate family," said Violet Grgich, President and CEO of Grgich Hills Estate. "Her impressive background and visionary leadership aligns perfectly with our goals for the future - continuing to share our regenerative winemaking practices, family-driven ethos, and historic legacy. We look forward to seeing how her expertise will help shape the next chapter of our global success."

Prior to joining Grgich Hills Estate, Elizabeth served as Vice President of National Sales and Marketing at Klinker Brick Winery, where she played a key role in growing the brand's national presence. Her strategic vision was instrumental in the success of its flagship wines, including the acclaimed Old Ghost Zinfandel. Elizabeth's background in technology and marketing, developed through her experience in Silicon Valley, has provided her with a forward-thinking perspective, which allowed her to help launch and elevate several wine brands that have resonated with both consumers and industry professionals.

A graduate of Stanford University, Elizabeth's passion for wine was ignited at an early age through her mother's wine distributorship in Indiana, which represented iconic wineries, including Grgich Hills Estate. This lifelong connection to the brand, combined with her extensive industry knowledge and success in brand magnification, makes her an ideal leader to drive the next phase of growth and innovation for Grgich Hills Estate.

On accepting the position, Elizabeth shared, "I have long admired Grgich Hills Estate for its rich history, unwavering commitment to quality, and pioneering spirit in Napa Valley winemaking. It is an honor to join this incredible team and contribute to the continued success of a winery that has played such a significant role in shaping the industry. I look forward to expanding our reach, strengthening relationships, and introducing these exceptional wines to new consumers around the world."

As Director of Global Sales, Elizabeth will oversee and drive the growth of Grgich Hills Estate's wholesale business, including export and California direct sales. Through her integrated position, she will be responsible for developing and managing relationships with distributors, brand ambassadors, and sales managers, managing financial statements for wholesale channels by identifying areas for improvement, coordinating customer events, among other crucial elements to the business. Her expertise in brand expansion and market strategy will be key to maintaining the winery's leadership in the industry and reinforcing its presence in both domestic and international markets.

Elizabeth's appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Grgich Hills Estate as the winery continues to build on its storied legacy while embracing fresh opportunities for expansion and re-engagement globally.

About Grgich Hills Estate:
Since Miljenko Grgich arrived in California in 1958, his dedication to crafting world class wines left an indelible mark on Napa Valley and the world. While some know him as the winemaker of the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the Paris Tasting in 1976, more know him as the man who befriended anyone who came to visit Grgich Hills over the last 47 years. Still family owned and operated, his daughter, Violet Grgich, now leads the team in continuing both of these legacies. Grgich Hills Estate upholds the values of its founder, Miljenko "Mike" Grgich: "Every day, do your best, learn something new, and make a friend." The winery's mission is to craft world-class wines while building a better future for generations to come. They remain committed to regenerating the earth and fostering peace through friendships. The wines are all grown in the winery's 100% certified regenerative organic vineyards and crafted with minimal-intervention winemaking to ensure the flavors of the vineyard and vintage are highlighted in every bottle. For more information about Grgich Hills Estate, please visit https://www.grgich.com/.

Media Contact:
Gabby French
Colangelo & Partners
[email protected]
916-892-9866

SOURCE Grgich Hills Estate