Matanzas Creek Vineyard Manager Brandon Axell

Vineyard Manager Brandon Axell believes he acquired “the farming bug” while growing up on an avocado and citrus farm in Santa Paula, California. As a teenager, Brandon joined his family’s endeavor by assisting with the management of his family’s farm. After graduating with a degree in both viticulture and agribusiness from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, Brandon found his desire to farm wine grapes was greater than that for avocado or citrus. Brandon’s first step in pursuing his goal to be a vineyard manager was to move north to Napa, California in 1998.

Brandon’s career in vineyard management began in 1998 as the supervisor of a privately-owned Napa Valley vineyard. A year later, Brandon moved to Sonoma County to serve as Assistant Vineyard Manager for a small Alexander Valley vineyard. In 2002 Brandon joined the Matanzas Creek Winery team as the Vineyard Manager for the Estate’s Sonoma County properties in Bennett Valley and the Durrell Vineyard in Sonoma Valley. These vineyards primarily produce Merlot, Chardonnay and Syrah. Working in Bennett Valley, Sonoma’s County’s newest American Viticultural Appellation (AVA), Brandon has embraced the complexities of this area which include dramatic climatic conditions, varying wind conditions and multiple soil profiles. Brandon sees all these complexities from his office atop Bennett Valley’s Jackson Park Vineyard claiming, "The result of our care and attention is intensely flavored grapes which in turn make terrific wines."

Dedicated to managing the growth of the highest quality fruit, Brandon is committed to the continued and improved application of safe and sustainable agricultural practices. Brandon and Winemaker Francois Cordesse both share their viticultural knowledge and experience with the Bennett Valley wine growing community. Brandon’s loyalty to Bennett Valley and commitment to those who nurture its potential ensures the elevated and proper recognition for the unique wines of Matanzas Creek Winery.