08/31/2026
Circa 1992. A young Brian, pouring wine at the Sonnenberg Gardens tasting room — then home to Canandaigua Wine Company.
For those just joining us, Brian’s roots in wine run deep in the Finger Lakes. He got his start at a young age, making wine in the basement with his dad, a self-taught home winemaker. From there, he went on to work for Marvin Sands, pour at the Sonnenberg tasting room, Taylor Great Western and serve as a tour guide at Widmer — all while attending RIT.
Then came California. UC Davis. Winemaking & Viticulture. More than 30 years in the wine industry. 25 vintages as a winemaker.
And now, somehow, he’s back where it all started.
“I love being back in the area and showcasing my work as a winemaker to all those who live and travel to the Finger Lakes region.” — Brian
We think 1992 Brian would be pretty proud of where this journey led.