Joanie Hudson Joins Pali Wine Co.
Hudson will work with National Sales Director Gary White, overseeing sales in California, Nevada and Arizona for both Pali Wine Co. and its soon-to-launch sister winery, Tower 15.
“This is an exciting time to be joining Pali as the company grows its production and distribution,” says Hudson. “These are great wines at some amazing price points, and I’m looking forward to building Pali’s reputation as a household name for West Coast Pinot Noir.”
Hudson comes from an experienced wine marketing background, starting out in the tasting room of Jaffurs Winery in 2006 and Santa Barbara Winery in 2007, where she managed the wine club and assisted with sales and marketing. In 2009, Hudson was promoted to director of national and international marketing at Santa Barbara Winery and its sister winery, Lafond. While there, Hudson managed sales in 44 states, developing corporate retail programs, and directed all export sales to Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Germany and Denmark.
“As we continue to expand into new markets, Joanie’s experience in wine sales and marketing will be a huge asset,” says White. “We’re thrilled to be adding the position of Western Regional Sales Manager, and Joanie’s infectious enthusiasm and passion for great wine fits right in with the Pali team.”
Hudson graduated from University of California Santa Barbara with a bachelor’s degree in communications and studio art. She also holds a level two certification from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust and contributes food and wine articles to The Santa Barbara Independent, Santa Barbara Magazine, Wine & Dine Magazine and others as a freelance writer.
About Pali Wine Co.
Founded by entrepreneurs Tim Perr and Scott Knight from the Pacific Palisades, CA in 2005, Lompoc-based Pali Wine Co. makes every effort to produce premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at the lowest possible pricing without compromising vineyard sources and winemaking. Fruit for Pali’s single-vineyard wines ($40 to $50) come from highly regarded vineyards in Sta. Rita Hills, the Russian River Valley and the Willamette Valley. Pali also produces value-oriented ($20 to $29), appellation-specific wines as part of its “Cuvée Program.” The Pali team plans to open a tasting room in downtown Santa Barbara in summer 2012, and will be launching Tower 15 Winery, featuring Rhône and Bordeaux varietal wines sourced from Paso Robles, CA, this year.
