While we are on tour of wineries and vineyards in France with a tour led by Theresa Beaver of Washington State University, we will spotlight the wine journeys of our fellow travelers. Today we lead with Geff Howell. Geff’s wine journey began as a result of working in the restaurant industry. He started working in restaurants during high school and continued after graduation. His wine enthusiasm took flight when he worked in the restaurant in Denver’s Brown Palace. Reflecting on the experience, Geff said, “Wine was a crucial aspect.” He later went on to earn his sommelier certification and helped open a French Restaurant in Denver.

Geff left the restaurant industry to take other jobs. One of these jobs led him to Gilbert Cellars in Yakima, Washington. Geff worked in the vineyard and winery and enjoyed the experience. He was soon hired full time and divided his attention between the tasting room and the winery. By his second year at Gilbert Cellars, Geff was working solely on the production side of the winery. He is now the cellar master.

Plans and future dreams may continue his wine journey. He has some interest in planting his own vineyard, but realizes that to a degree, a vineyard can tie you down. Geff wouldn’t mind spending some time working in the production side of a French winery or perhaps somewhere in the southern hemisphere which would give him the opportunity to experience two harvests and fermentations in a single year. Geff also enjoys writing. Perhaps he will become the next great wine novelist. You can almost hear the keyboard sing as he types out, Under the Yakima Sun.

Cheers,
Terry