Sustainability standout elevates Leonardi amid flagship brand revitalization
Fetzer, a sustainability leader and the flagship label of Fetzer Vineyards, has appointed Margaret Leonardi as winemaker. The first woman to lead winemaking for the iconic Fetzer brand in its 50‐plus‐year history, Leonardi takes the reins of the heritage label as Fetzer unveils new packaging elevating longtime commitments to doing right by people and planet.
Part of the Fetzer Vineyards winemaking team since 2015, Leonardi has overseen flagship label Fetzer’s acclaimed white wines in recent years, garnering more than 20 “Best Buy” commendations from top wine critics. Named to the North Bay Business Journal’s 2021 40 under 40 list of regional executives on the rise, Leonardi assumes responsibility for the complete Fetzer brand collection this year.
“Margaret continues to raise the bar on quality, placing Fetzer wines in a category well above their price while helping to meet the growing demand for sustainable wine, and making it accessible for all,” noted John Kane, vice president, winemaking and winery operations for Fetzer Vineyards.
Leonardi grew up on an organic dairy farm in Northern California and studied agribusiness at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, including a minor in wine and viticulture. Before joining Fetzer Vineyards, she ran a pilot program experimenting with unique grape varieties and crafted award‐winning wines for a diverse array of celebrated brands. With more than 10 harvests behind her, Leonardi balances a thirst for innovation with a dedication to crafting quality wines that win accolades.
