Doug Margerum introduced Valle de Inez, which translates as Santa Ynez Valley, in 2016 to explore the blending potential across California’s many unique appellations. Valle de Inez embraces the spirit of collaboration and allows Doug to foster relationships with like-minded growers to produce and make wines from the cold coastal regions of California with an emphasis on wines that are food-friendly and over-deliver for their price.

Doug Margerum is the founder of Margerum Wine Company, bringing a lifelong passion for wine and hospitality into his terroir-driven winemaking in Santa Barbara County since 2001. His love of wine began as a teenager in France, and after graduating from UCSB in 1981, he and his family acquired the Wine Cask restaurant and wine store, which under his leadership became one of only 74 restaurants worldwide to earn the prestigious Wine Spectator Grand Award.

Guided by a hands-on, craftsmanship-focused philosophy, Doug produces expressive wines that reflect site and vintage while drawing on decades of industry experience. Beyond his own labels, he has played a significant role in shaping the Santa Barbara wine community through mentorship, collaboration, and leadership within regional wine organizations. In recognition of his lasting influence and contributions to California wine, Doug was nominated as Winemaker of the Year by Wine Enthusiast, underscoring his commitment to quality and excellence.

 For information, please contact brooks@margerumwines.com.