Former Stonestreet Winemaker to Lead Production at Jackson Family’s Vancouver Island Estate
Duncan, British Columbia (May 30, 2024) – Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard announced today that Stacy Hornemann will take over as lead winemaker, assuming all winemaking responsibilities for Blue Grouse and Quill brands at its Cowichan Valley estate. Following an assistant winemaking role at the Jackson family’s Stonestreet Estate, led by Chris Jackson, Hornemann will continue to collaborate closely with the family’s second- and third-generation winery owners.
“I’m grateful and excited for this opportunity to join Blue Grouse and expand my international winemaking expertise in British Columbia’s Cowichan Valley,” said Hornemann, who relocated to Vancouver Island from Sonoma County, California. “I look forward to continuing to build momentum for Blue Grouse, honoring its storied history and driving the Jackson family’s vision of this estate forward.”
Hornemann began her professional wine career in 2012 at Trefethen Family Vineyards then later at Mumm Napa. Her journey continued at the vineyards and culinary garden as the Estate Horticulturist at St. Supéry Estate Vineyards. In 2015, she joined as an Assistant Winemaker at Materra – Cunat Family Vineyards. In 2017, Stacy made a pivotal move to Jackson Family Wines’ California operations to support its ultra-premium brands: Legacy Wines, Matanzas Creek, Windracer and Capensis. She moved into a long-term role as Assistant Winemaker at Stonestreet in Sonoma County where she notably worked on the making and release of the winery’s first Blanc de Blancs.
“Stacy’s commitment to excellence is demonstrated through her impactful roles in sustainability projects, winery remodels, and the development of cutting-edge winemaking practices,” commented Nick Bevan, EVP of International Business at Jackson Family Wines. “We can’t think of a better candidate to lead Blue Grouse into its next chapter.”
The announcement follows the winery’s recent achievement of earning Biosphere Sustainable Certification and precedes several upcoming changes for Blue Grouse. These include portfolio expansions featuring two Charme de L’Île offerings and additions to its Reserve wine tier, an updated packaging refresh, and the launch of a new sparkling wine experience in partnership with Unsworth Vineyards, set to debut on June 19, 2024.
About Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard
Blue Grouse Estate Winery is located in the southern part of the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. It is about 8 kilometers south of the town of Duncan; 50 kilometers north of Victoria; or 60 kilometers south of Nanaimo at about 1 kilometer west of the Trans-Canada Highway. The winery and surrounding vineyard are an awarded, sought-after destination. Visit this celebrated winery by booking your appointment to enjoy cool climate wines or tasting flights with cheese or charcuterie and take in the surrounding views of nature and vines. For information about visiting Blue Grouse Estate Winery or to purchase wines, visit BlueGrouse.ca.
