Justin Hirigoyen

Justin Hirigoyen’s journey into the world of winemaking is a tale of passion, exploration, and a deep connection to the land and its produce. His initial foray into the world of wine was not through vineyards or wineries, but via the culinary delights of his father’s Basque restaurant, Piperade, in San Francisco. It was here, amidst the flavors and aromas of fine food, that Justin’s interest in wine began to take root.

This burgeoning passion led Justin to France, to the renowned Chateau d’Esclans, where the art of winemaking captivated his heart. It was in the midst of the French vineyards and wineries that Justin discovered his true calling. He recalls, “Making wine is built upon a foundation of observing and listening. If you can capture the essence of the site, the vintage, and some of the character of the people behind the wine, then you have an opportunity to capture something truly great and unique.” This philosophy reflects Justin’s deep respect for the winemaking process and his desire to infuse each bottle with the unique story of its origin.

After gaining valuable insights into the wine industry through sales and marketing roles in the United States, Justin’s passion led him back to France for a second harvest. His commitment to mastering the craft of winemaking saw him enrolling at the Centre de Formation d’Apprentis in Burgundy. Here, he earned technical degrees in viticulture and oenology, while also honing his skills at Domaine Faiveley.

Justin’s journey eventually brought him back to the United States, where he took on the role of winemaker at Spring Mountain Vineyard. His current position at Twomey marks a new chapter in his winemaking story. At Twomey, Justin is immersed in the pursuit of crafting exceptional Pinot Noir. His work spans the unique terroirs of Santa Maria Valley in California to Willamette Valley in Oregon. Reflecting on his role, Justin notes, “The idea of continuous improvement at Twomey is something that personally resonates with me. With so many great sites and an infinite number of variables, there is always something to ponder, question, and reimagine on our quest to make something really special.”

Justin Hirigoyen’s journey is a testament to the idea that great winemaking is not just a process but a continuous journey of learning and passion, deeply rooted in the land and its fruits.