The Sebastopol Hills Winegrowers Association is a collective of passionate winegrowers and winemakers dedicated to showcasing the unique terroir and exceptional wines of the proposed Sebastopol Hills American Viticultural Area (AVA). Our association comprises a group of esteemed founding members who have played a vital role in shaping the viticultural landscape of this distinct region.
John Balletto
Founder and President
John Balletto, the founder of Balletto Vineyards, is a true embodiment of family, farming, and community. After the untimely death of his father, John dedicated his college years to support his mother on their small farm in Sebastopol, California.
In addition to his passion for winemaking, John is deeply involved in his community. He has been an active leader and contributor to various organizations, including serving as President of the Santa Rosa Junior College Foundation Agricultural Trust and the Sonoma County Winegrape Commission. John’s commitment to his community extends to his volunteer work with the Sebastopol Sunrise Rotary and his involvement in saving the Palm Drive Hospital.
With a strong connection to Sebastopol Hills and a commitment to quality, John Balletto continues to shape the landscape of the wine industry while making a positive impact in his community.
Ted Lemon
Founder and Winemaker
Ted Lemon is a trailblazing winemaker renowned for his terroir-driven approach. As the first American winemaker at Domaine Guy Roulot in Burgundy, he made history. Ted co-founded Littorai Wines, known for vineyard-designated Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays from Sonoma County and Anderson Valley. He is committed to sustainable and biodynamic farming, transitioning vineyards to biodynamic methods. Ted’s expertise and philosophy have earned him accolades, including being named Winemaker of the Year by the San Francisco Chronicle. His influence extends beyond the winemaking world, with his philosophy cited in Burgundy’s application as a World Heritage Site.
Alex Kanzler
Winemaker
Alex Kanzler, a native of Sebastopol Hills, has returned to his roots to pursue his passion for winemaking. After gaining experience in vineyards worldwide, including New Zealand and Oregon’s Willamette Valley, in 2011, Alex assumed the role of winemaker for Kanzler Vineyards, a family business located in the heart of Sebastopol Hills. Since then, he has devoted himself to crafting exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir and character of this special region. With a focus on sustainable farming practices and meticulous attention to detail, Alex’s winemaking expertise has garnered recognition and accolades.
Anthony Beckman
Vice President and Winemaker
With a background that spans journalism, technology, and a passion for wine, Anthony Beckman brings a fresh perspective to his role as winemaker at Balletto Vineyards.
Graduating with high honors from UC Davis’ Viticulture and Enology program, Anthony applies his expertise to create elegant, balanced wines that reflect the unique terroir of Sebastopol Hills. Through minimal intervention winemaking, he captures the distinct characteristics of the region, resulting in wines of depth, structure, and finesse. Anthony’s dedication and innovative approach contribute to the ongoing success of Balletto Vineyards and showcase the exceptional quality of wines from Sebastopol Hills.
Joe Rogoway
Managing Partner
Joe heads Rogoway Law’s regulatory compliance and wine law practices and also assists his clients with disputes, labor and employment matters, and enforcement actions.
Joe’s passion for the wine industry comes from his personal experience in developing, managing, and working his estate vineyard located in Sebastopol Hills. To Joe, the legal issues involved in licensing, commercial agreements, labeling requirements, and geographic indicators are not abstract and the legal services he provides to his wine industry clients are informed by his viticultural work outside of the office.
Through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and a shared commitment to sustainable practices, our association aims to promote and protect the integrity of Sebastopol Hills wines. We invite you to explore the exceptional wines produced by our members and experience the distinctive flavors and character of the Sebastopol Hills AVA.
