Kristen McMahan

In the heart of Anderson Valley, winemaker Kristen McMahan stands as a dedicated guardian of the region’s winemaking legacy. As the mastermind behind Goldeneye’s acclaimed Pinot Noir program, Kristen seamlessly blends rustic charm with refined expertise, crafting wines that capture the essence of the valley’s renowned terroir.

Hailing from Atwater in California’s Central Valley, Kristen’s journey into winemaking was shaped by her love for the outdoors, nurtured against the scenic backdrop of Yosemite. Armed with a degree in communications and journalism from the University of Arizona, Kristen’s destiny intertwined with wine during a transformative six-month sojourn in Australia.

Before fully dedicating herself to the world of wine in 2012, Kristen traversed the landscape of non-profit marketing, leaving an indelible mark at organizations like the Second Harvest Food Bank. Her palate refinement and wine knowledge expanded through immersive experiences in Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Anderson Valley, Oregon, and Washington.

Kristen’s winemaking odyssey gained momentum when she joined Korbel in Sonoma County. Over six years, she honed her craft, focusing on sparkling wines and Pinot Noir. Simultaneously, she pursued enology studies at Santa Rosa Junior College, earning an Associate of Science degree. Her passion for cool-climate Pinot Noir deepened during her tenure at Joseph Phelps’s Freestone Winery on the Sonoma Coast.

Since joining Goldeneye in 2019, Kristen’s trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. From enologist to assistant winemaker and finally assuming the prestigious role of winemaker, Kristen’s journey exemplifies an unwavering work ethic, a discerning palate, and a profound scientific understanding.

“I am honored to be building on the traditions established by those who came before me at Goldeneye,” Kristen reflects. Her commitment to the craft is evident in the wines she creates, each a testament to the remarkable terroir of Anderson Valley. From the vibrant red fruit purity of Confluence Vineyard to the blue-fruit complexity of Gowan Creek and the terroir-driven rusticity of The Narrows Vineyard, Kristen McMahan’s wines embody the beauty, sophistication, and profound sense of place that define Anderson Valley’s winemaking excellence.