MENDOCINO COUNTY, Calif., Feb. 4, 2025 – Bonterra Organic Estates, the leading organic winery in the United States, is proud to announce Olan Cox as its new Executive Chef and Director of Estate Hospitality. A longtime collaborator with the Bonterra team, Cox has a wealth of experience in local, farm-to-table culinary experiences and a deep passion for Mendocino County, where Bonterra is based.
In his new role, Cox will act as the primary Mendocino County estate lead, creating memorable guest experiences that bring Bonterra’s ethos and the region’s natural richness to life for visitors. With his enthusiasm and knowledge, he will inspire a deep affinity for Mendocino County and regenerative farming among local and global audiences. Cox will also serve as a key spokesperson for Bonterra’s estate ranches, where he will convey the winery’s legacy and visionary ambitions in regenerative and organic farming.
“Olan’s ability to craft thoughtful culinary and hospitality experiences is one of a kind, and it’s been a joy for the Bonterra team to collaborate with Olan for more than a decade,” said Rachel Newman, SVP of Marketing for Bonterra Organic Estates. “Now, as Olan joins our team full-time, he will elevate and transform our hospitality offerings.
His passion for Mendocino County and his natural talent for storytelling align seamlessly with our mission to connect people to the land through a warm hospitality experience.”
Building on his expertise in culinary arts, Cox will curate unforgettable dining experiences featuring seasonal, locally grown and raised ingredients paired with Bonterra’s collection of organic and regeneratively farmed wines. He will also oversee the development of a culinary garden program designed to provide ingredients for
estate events and hands-on experiential opportunities for guests.
Cox has crafted remarkable meals for Bonterra since 2009 through his beloved catering business, Mendough’s. A Virginia native who grew up immersed in global food cultures, Cox’s journey spans open-air markets in the Middle east and South America, culinary apprenticeships in the U.S., and leadership roles in both corporate and artisanal kitchens. These experiences have shaped his approach to creating food that tells stories, connects communities, and reflects a deep respect for the land.
“Very exciting things are happening at Bonterra! I am thrilled to continue celebrating Mendocino County alongside our exceptional team,” said Cox. “For the past 15 years, it has been a dream come true to share thoughtfully grown, organic, and locally sourced meals with visitors to our beautiful region. Looking ahead, the opportunity to expand these experiences at Bonterra with such a passionate team is truly inspiring.”
Bonterra Organic Estates continues to champion excellence in organic winemaking and regenerative farming, recently celebrating Mendocino County’s recognition as Wine Enthusiast’s American Wine Region of the Year.
ABOUT BONTERRA ORGANIC ESTATES
The United States’ largest Regenerative Organic Certified® winery, Bonterra Organic Estates is an award-winning purveyor of multi-origin wines, selling in over 50 countries worldwide. Founded by Barney Fetzer in Mendocino County, CA, in 1968 as Fetzer Vineyards, and today part of global powerhouse Viña Concha y Toro, Bonterra Organic Estates remains driven by excellence, innovation and longstanding commitments to the
environment and responsible business practices. With a focus on crafting wines made from sustainable and organically farmed grapes, Bonterra Organic Estates is a leading U.S. marketer of wines and the nation’s primary importer of South American wines. As a B Corp since 2015, Bonterra Organic Estates is grounded in the transformational goals of regenerative business.
