Dave Petterson

Winemaker Dave Petterson is a figure whose journey through life reads not just as a testament to his varied interests and experiences but also as a blueprint of his approach to winemaking. In Petterson’s world, the crafting of wine is not about adhering to a rigid set of styles or traditions but rather about achieving a symbiosis that truly reflects the characteristics of each year’s harvest. This approach, both empirical and experimental, ensures that the essence of the vineyard, the year’s climate, and the unique attributes of each grape variety are captured in every bottle.

Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Petterson’s early life was a tapestry of global experiences. His family moved across various countries, including Saudi Arabia, England, and Kuwait, due to his father’s work. This international upbringing exposed Petterson to a diversity of cultures and perspectives from a young age. However, it was after his return to the United States, post his high school graduation in Florida, that his path began to meander towards the world of winemaking.

Petterson’s academic pursuits at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York, were as eclectic as his upbringing. He studied archaeology, geology, and geography, disciplines that, unbeknownst to him at the time, would lay a foundational understanding of the land and its history – critical elements in the art and science of viticulture. After completing his undergraduate studies, Petterson moved westward, drawn by the allure of Oregon’s rich landscapes and the promise of further education at Portland State University, where he earned a Master of Science in Cartography Geographic Information Systems.

The turn towards winemaking came somewhat serendipitously for Petterson. While working for the Portland regional government, he met his future wife, Emily, whose family owned Panther Creek Cellars. This connection introduced Petterson to the hands-on work of harvests and cellar management, sparking a passion that would redefine his career path. By 2003, he was deeply entrenched in the wine industry, working full-time as an Assistant Winemaker.

Petterson’s journey took another significant turn in 2007 when he began his tenure with the McClintock family at Vista Hills Vineyard. Initially hired as the General Manager/Winemaker, he played a pivotal role in transforming Vista Hills from a vineyard into a full-fledged winery. Under his guidance, Vista Hills introduced a new wine label, opened a tasting room, launched a wine club, and developed a wholesale program, marking its evolution into a notable name in the Oregon wine scene.

The acquisition of Vista Hills by The Family Coppola in 2018 presented Petterson with new opportunities and challenges. As the winery transitioned into Domaine Lumineux, he continued in his dual role, overseeing the rebranding process and ensuring that the winery’s essence – a blend of tradition and innovation – remained intact.

Dave Petterson’s approach to winemaking is reflective of his life’s journey: diverse, adaptable, and always curious. He sees wine not just as a product but as a narrative of the land, the climate, and the human touch that nurtures it from vine to bottle. His empirical, experimental methodology ensures that Domaine Lumineux’s wines are not just drinks but stories – of a particular year, a specific terroir, and the endless possibilities that lie in the symbiosis of nature and nurture. Petterson’s wines are a testament to his belief in reflecting the unique details of each year, ensuring that every sip offers a glimpse into the complexities and beauty of the winemaking process.