FRESNO, Jan. 12, 2021 – Allied Grape Growers (AGG) has named Michael Haddox as its manager of Central Coast operations. The newly-created position expands AGG’s managerial grape sales team, which currently consists of positions in the North Coast, North Valley and Central Valley.
In his new role, Haddox will oversee business development in the Central Coast, consisting primarily of winegrape marketing and sales as well as bulk wine production.
Haddox comes to AGG with nearly 25 years of experience in the wine industry. Previously, he was a senior winery relations manager and winemaker in the Central Coast for Agajanian Vineyards & Wine Company, where he also oversaw grape and bulk wine sourcing. Haddox has also worked in grower relations and other positions for well-known, multinational vintners based in California and abroad. During his career, he has managed millions of dollars in grape contracts; monitored grape production; built and maintained strong relationships with growers, vintners and winemakers; informed growers regarding winery marketing strategies and programs; and fostered an extensive network within the industry.
AGG President Jeff Bitter said, “Michael brings to the job diverse and far-reaching knowledge of the California wine industry, from vineyards to the cellar to the bottle. We are excited to welcome Michael into the loyal family of AGG employees. Michael understands AGG’s culture, as we have worked with him over many years as one of our preferred grape buyers. His recent years in the Central Coast will serve AGG well, as we develop a full, self-sustaining portfolio of business under his direction.”
