Northwest Wine Academy Welcomes New Winemaker
Tracey LaPierre has joined the Northwest Wine Academy (NWWA) at South Seattle College as Winemaker. Starting this fall quarter, she will lead students through the wine production process and continue the Academy’s tradition of producing award-winning wines and industry-ready professionals.
“Having Tracey join our team and lead winemaking curriculum at the Northwest Wine Academy is an incredible opportunity for our students,” said South Seattle College Dean Brian Scheehser. “She brings a deep understanding of both the art and science involved in producing great wine to our program.”
LaPierre comes to NWWA with 18 years of wine production experience. While training as a botanist in her home state of New York, she took a winemaking course that immediately sparked a new passion and changed her professional trajectory. LaPierre went on to work for vineyards in New York and California before moving to Washington State in 2011 where she worked with DiStefano Winery and Mark Ryan Winery.
LaPierre believes in a hands-on application of theory. Working with the students throughout the production process enables her to share her artistic style and approach to winemaking.
“I’ve always enjoyed sharing my knowledge, and now have the opportunity to train the next generation of great Washington winemakers,” LaPierre said.