Bio
After graduating from Middlebury College and joining the Peace Corps, Ian learned the craft of winemaking first at Bonny Doon Vineyard, then as assistant winemaker and vineyard manager at Big Basin Vineyards. Today at his own winery, I. Brand & Family, Ian produces three of his own labels: I. Brand, Le P’tit Paysan, and La Marea. In 2018, he earned the San Francisco Chronicle’s prestigious “Winemaker of the Year” title, in part due to his knack for finding undiscovered vineyards destined for star status.
Winemaking Style
Ian is known for finding and reviving long-lost old vines and curating a collection of outstanding vineyard sites. His throwback style of winemaking entails taking some risks that inevitably bring great rewards.
