Armida's Winemaker Extraordinaire.

Born in Ithaca, New York, and raised in California, Winemaker Brandon Lapides began his winemaking career in 2000 at the University of California at Davis, in the Fermentation Science Department. During these studies he interned during harvest at both Testarossa Vineyards and RH Phillips winery.  Immediately following graduation and eager to put his education to work, Brandon spent six months in New Zealand, working for Brancott Winery in Malborough for three months, learning the intricacies and glory of Sauvignon Blanc.

Returning to the States Brandon was offered the assistant winemaker position at Peachy Canyon Winery in Paso Robles, CA. Here he worked with Zinfandel from some of the most sought after vineyards on the Central Coast, producing many noteworthy and award winning wines. His successes there brought him to the attention of Dan Goldfield of Dutton Goldfield winery in the Russian River appellation of Sonoma Valley, where Brandon became the assistant winemaker.  During his four years at Dutton Goldfield Brandon mastered his craft, honing his palate and gaining the experience required to produce the elegant, complex, single-vineyard artisan wines he now makes at Armida Winery.

When Brandon is not making wine he is often found in the tasting room talking to our friends and customers. He enjoys pretending to be a chef and cooking meals for his wife and one-year old daughter.  He supplements his passion for winemaking and cooking in his garden, trying to grow perfect tomatoes and basil. Brandon loves Sonoma County for its stunning vineyards, diverse local food, and breath-taking and varied locales.