Rodney Strong Vineyards

Gary Patzwald’s wine career spawned from seeds planted when he worked for his father who owned a retail wine and beer shop in Wisconsin. Initially, Gary went to college and studied Pharmaceuticals but, having walked the vineyards of wine and hop fields of beer, Gary realized his interest lay in a science that would also allow him to spend time outdoors. He quickly enrolled at U.C. Davis and received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Fermentation Science in 1979. After graduating from college, Gary moved back to Wisconsin and worked for a short time in the brew house at a local brewery. While there, a friend encouraged him to think about a career in wine and soon after, Gary moved to Napa and began his winemaking career at Conn Creek Winery. As assistant winemaker and cellarmaster he enthusiastically immersed himself in his craft. Eventually, Gary accepted a winemaking position at Chateau de Baun, then spent a few years on the East Coast working for Palmer Vineyards and Lenz Vineyards. In 1991 he returned to California and this time, to Sonoma County where he spent eleven years at Kendall Jackson Wine Estates, with his final appointment being Winemaker at Matanzas Creek Winery. 

 

Gary joined the winemaking team at Rodney Strong Vineyards in May of 2005 and is involved in all aspects of production. He works closely with long-time Winemaker, Rick Sayre and Director of Vineyard Operations, Doug McIlroy. “The quality of the vineyards that we have to work with is outstanding and I feel inspired to make wines that will express that.” he explains.

 

Gary lives in Santa Rosa with his wife and son. He enjoys travel, hiking and the outdoors.