JOEL WRIGHT

“I’m thrilled at the opportunity to have access to best-in-class winemaking resources, work with some of the finest fruit in the state, and showcase the highest quality wine in every bottle.”

Born and raised in Eastern Washington, Joel has over a decade of diverse winemaking experience and a deep-rooted passion for Washington wine.

Joel joined Ste. Michelle in 2021 at our sister Northstar winery in Walla Walla initially as an enologist and later promoted to assistant winemaker. In May 2025, Joel was promoted to Chateau Ste. Michelle Red Winemaker, leveraging his luxury wine experience with Ste. Michelle’s flagship winery. 

“My career has been centered around ultra-luxury boutique wine brands, and I’m excited to bring that experience and perspective to Chateau Ste. Michelle’s red winemaking program.” 

“Although I’ve worked with many grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux varietals from Washington’s Columbia Valley has been a focus for my entire career,” adds Joel. “I’ve worked with Cabernet from all over the state including the White Bluffs, Horse Heaven Hills, Walla Walla Valley, Red Mountain, Wahluke Slope, Yakima Valley, and of course the Columbia Valley. Because of my work with multiple wineries and different sites I have a great appreciation of all that Columbia Valley has to offer and how varied our reds can be from different AVAs, which is essential when blending from so many distinctive sites.”

Prior to joining Northstar, Joel worked at Pepper Bridge Winery for three years as production winemaker, overseeing operations for both Pepper Bridge and its sister winery, Amavi Cellars. He also spent five years at Guardian Cellars as assistant winemaker playing a key role in doubling the winery’s production and launching its second label, Newsprint Wines. Joel’s first harvest was in 2012 at Artifex Wine Co. starting in the laboratory and quickly expanding his focus to all facets of winemaking. Joel holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Washington, completed the Enology Certificate Program through Washington State University, and recently earned his earned his WSET Level 3 certification.

“Chateau Ste. Michelle is unique in the world of wine, serving customers ranging from new wine drinkers to seasoned collectors,” adds Joel. “For many people, Chateau Ste. Michelle is their first encounter with Washington wine — it sets the standard and shapes their expectations for the region. Because of our extensive range of offerings at every price point we not only get to be their inaugural wine experience but also remain a staple in their cellar as they continue their wine journey.”

Joel enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, and when he’s not in the vineyard or cellar, he can be found cycling, running, and swimming to train for his next triathlon and IRONMAN competition. 

“Every swim, ride, or run is an opportunity to push a little harder, be a little faster, and improve over the last time,” explains Joel. “In that way, it mirrors how I approach winemaking — every vintage is a chance to improve, refine, and push the craft further.”