We’re excited to introduce the newest member of the Chaddsford Winery team, Zoë DeLuca-Hewetson, our new Associate Winemaker! With experience that spans six countries and a passion for both science and storytelling, Zoë brings a dynamic perspective to the cellar.
We asked her a few quick questions to help you get to know her:
Q: What drew you to winemaking specifically?
Zoë: I took a gap year between high school and university. By some miracle I ended up in Burgundy and was standing in an archway of a winery that was at least 600 years old. It was the Festival de Saint Vincent (patron saint of wine), and a light switch went off in my brain and heart. I knew that I had to be a winemaker. It was my calling.
Q: What excites you most about joining Chaddsford?
Zoë: The opportunity for growth and experimentation.
Q: How would you describe your winemaking philosophy?
Zoë: The Scientific Method.
Q: What’s your favorite way to spend a day off?
Zoë: When it’s warm out, my hobby is mermaiding. I have a mermaid tail, and I bring it all over the world with me to swim in rivers, lakes, and oceans. When it’s cold, I prefer hiking with my dog or reading with a glass of vino!
Q: What are you most looking forward to this harvest?
Zoë: Working with new varietals and with a great team!
More About Zoë:
Zoë holds a double degree in Viticulture and Oenology from Bright University in the UK, with a focus on Sparkling Winemaking and Pinot Noir. She’s completed harvests in the UK (yes, she’s used to rain!), France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, and California. Among her many career highlights: serving as personal oenologist to Aubert de Villaine, co-owner of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, at his private winery in Burgundy.
This year marks her 16th harvest, and we’re honored that she’s chosen to bring her skills and passion to Chaddsford.
Zoë recently relocated to the East Coast to be closer to family, and she brought her beloved dog Minnie (an Australian Cattle Dog/Husky mix) along for the ride.
Please join us in giving her a warm welcome!
