Our Story
Our Philosophy
Estate Vineyards
Chambers Vineyard
Our 37-acre Chambers Vineyard, named for our winery owners, is nestled within the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains of Sonoma County. Volcanic soil and cooling maritime-influenced climate limit vine vigor and allow our fruit to ripen slowly and steadily to reach ideal ripeness. The vineyard’s rolling landscape creates unique microclimates, the site strategically divided into 17 distinct blocks. The four slightly cooler blocks are planted to three Chardonnay clones while warmer blocks are ideal for Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot—our core Bordeaux blending wines. Sauvignon Blanc + Semillon are also planted here (grafted in 2024) and are an important part of our winemaking program.
Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon
Gilfillan Vineyard
Situated at roughly 1,300 feet in elevation on Moon Mountain, our Gilfillan Vineyard is the newest and most exciting vineyard development at Lambert Bridge in more than 20 years. Carved out of 6.5-acres, this steeply sloped mountainside property is laden with as much as 83% red volcanic rock—an extreme site for grape growing. We planted this vineyard to four clones of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. With just over 1,800 vines per acre, 11,825 vines total, we aim to achieve a yield of less than three tons per acre of small, dark, highly concentrated berries—the quintessential profile we strive for in our Cabernet Sauvignon. Gilfillan Vineyard has quickly become one the crown jewels in our Bordeaux program. Additionally, Gilfillan Vineyard is fish friendly farming certified.
Sawyer Vineyard
This 1.75 acre estate vineyard resides on a gentle sloping site, perfect for growing expressive Cabernet Franc. The vines are strategically planted in an orientation that tempers the Dry Creek Valley’s warm sunny days while well-drained soils and careful canopy management coax optimal ripeness.
Sage Vineyard
Just under two acres (1.64 acres), our estate Sage Vineyard is marked by extremely consistent, well-draining soils. This superb soil balance allows us to grow dense, concentrated, perfectly ripened Petite Sirah. We employ an uncommon viticulture method at this site, allowing an extra layer of shade canes on the vines to protect the berries from raisining during the warm Dry Creek Valley growing season. Reaching ideal balance and complexity, at harvest, the grapes taste like fresh black berry pie.
Partner Vineyards
Bevill Vineyard
At the southernmost edge of Dry Creek Valley near the fog-laden Russian River Valley, long time vineyard manager and grape grower Duff Bevill thoughtfully cultivates his 3.2 acres of Sauvignon Blanc. With more than 50 years of growing under his belt, Duff’s experience and unparalleled attention to detail fits perfectly with our precision philosophy in the vineyard. As lingering fog lifts in the heat of Dry Creek Valley’s afternoon sun, this site is ideal for this white varietal, yielding highly aromatic fruit with full ripeness matched with excellent acidity.
Rockpile Vineyards
Located just west of Geyserville at the intersection of Rockpile and Dry Creek AVAs, Rockpile Vineyards is perched between 900 and 1,400 feet in elevation. Overlooking Lake Sonoma, vines benefits from well draining clay loam soils, coastal and inland influences, and southwest exposure. Daytime temperatures are about 4-5 degrees cooler than the Dry Creek Valley due to the high elevation. Although the vineyard is often above the fog layer, there is a definite marine influence, with strong onshore breezes sweeping across the vineyard in spring and early summer. Growing conditions lend themselves to varietals like Zinfandel, allowing grapes to reach ideal flavor concentration and ripeness.
Our Team
Patti Chambers
Patti is the owner and, Chair of the Board, of Lambert Bridge Winery. She has shaped Lambert Bridge over the last 30+ years to become what it is today – a charming, welcoming and warm place that produces the highest quality wines.
Patti is a very happy and proud mother and grandmother. In addition to the pride she has in her family and Lambert Bridge, Patti has been a leader in some of the most important charitable undertakings in New Jersey, her “second” home state.
Patti spends a great deal of her time guiding the PG Chambers School, an educational setting for children with disabilities. She said that “the PG Chambers School inspires us to provide the best special education and therapy to allow our children to reach their unique potential.” In addition, Patti has been a founding member of the Boards of the Women’s Association of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Branch Brook Park Conservancy.
“Lambert Bridge Winery is the most enjoyable and most beautiful place my family and I have ever encountered. Our time here is truly transformative.”
Owner + Chair of the Board
Michael Gilfillan
“Lambert Bridge has become my home away from home. When I walk on the property, I feel the same sense of family and community that our members experience.”
After a successful career on Wall Street and in Sports Management, Mike merged his background in finance with his love of wine. Although an East Coast native, he has found a second home at Lambert Bridge. It is one that perfectly blends the family with the art of winemaking amidst the rustic beauty of the Dry Creek Valley. Mike seeks the perfect combination of local winemaking and collaboration as he hopes to create a positive environment that brings forth innovation and growth.
When not at the winery or rooting for his favorite sports teams, you can often find Mike on the slopes in Steamboat, Colorado. He loves spending time with his wife and four children, as well as his two Bernedoodles.
President + CEO
Jennifer Higgins
16 Years with Lambert Bridge
“Our wines are uncorked out in the world and brought into important milestones and moments in people’s lives….. To walk around the tasting room and have our guests tell me what our wines mean to them is the ultimate reward. I can’t imagine doing anything else. Once you’re at a great place you never want to leave.”
Born and raised in Sonoma County, Jennifer Higgins immersed herself in winemaking while working with the legendary Zelma Long of Simi Winery. After earning a degree from UC Davis in Biochemistry, Jennifer worked in Italy for two years before returning home to take a tasting room job as she studied for her medical school entrance exam. Before long, Jennifer abandoned her aspirations for medicine and dove into the cellar, learning the artistic complexities of the winemaking process from Zelma and her team.
Jennifer took on her first official production role working with Jill Davis at William Hill Winery in Napa Valley. During this time, she worked tirelessly, learning the ropes at a large Napa Valley winery prior to her eleven-year tenure at Lancaster Estate where she collaborated often with the iconic winemaking consultant David Ramey.
In early 2010, Jennifer joined Lambert Bridge and the rest is history. During the past decade, she has crafted the “LB style” – wines that are distinctive, elegant and built for long term cellar aging. Jennifer’s fervor and passion is infectious – her commitment to excellence unwavering; her life’s passion is demonstrated in every bottle of Lambert Bridge.
Vice President, Winemaker + General Manager
Heidi Numainville
2 Years with Lambert Bridge
“I love working at Lambert Bridge. The location is stunning and my drive to work through this beautiful valley is breathtaking. Being part of a family-owned winery that takes pride in the business and the people make coming to work exciting.”
Originally from Western New York, where grapevines stretch across the landscape, Heidi was surrounded by vineyards from a young age—her very first job was tying grapes. After moving to Northern California at 13, she went on to earn a degree in Finance from Chico State University, eventually finding her way back to the vineyard roots she grew up with. For the past 30 years, she has worked in wine industry finance, combining her love of numbers with a deep appreciation for the craft of winemaking.
She’s drawn to the wine world not just for its rich history, but for the way it brings people together—whether it’s collaborating with a team from grape to bottle, or sharing a glass at home with family and friends.
Since joining the Lambert Bridge team in August 2024, Heidi now brings her deep experience, passion, and strategic leadership to her role as Chief Financial Officer. When asked, her favorite wine is the Cuvée Blanc, which she describes as “sunshine in a bottle”—versatile, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
When she’s not immersed in spreadsheets, you’ll find her hiking, reading, traveling, or enjoying time with her husband, their three grown children, and their two golden retrievers.
Chief Financial Officer
Lisa Bruich
4 Years with Lambert Bridge
“Lambert Bridge captures the essence of everything that drew me to Sonoma in the first place – the opportunity to work with a myriad of varietals sourced from diverse vineyards all across the county while surrounded and supported by an amazing community. I love the camaraderie of winemaking, the continuous learning year in and year out, and the satisfaction of sharing a bottle I made with family and friends.”
A southern California native, Lisa ventured to Boston College for her undergrad degree and spent close to a decade working as a communications consultant in Boston & New York before catching the wine bug. After making her way back to California to study enology at Fresno State, she spent time in New Zealand working in Martinborough and Marlborough before landing in the Willamette Valley in Oregon. Although she fell in love with the grapes in Oregon, her enthusiasm did not extend to the weather, and she found the Sonoma sunshine calling. We feel so fortunate to have Lisa as part of our winemaking team!
Associate Winemaker
Shelby Kolpin
27 Years with Lambert Bridge
“I can’t believe that I’ve worked at Lambert Bridge for 27 years – there’s never been a dull moment! I’ve become friends with so many amazing Liquid Assets Members that work sometimes feels more like play. Should I feel guilty about that?”
Membership Manager Shelby runs the ever-growing Liquid Assets Membership and is a well-known and loved by our members. In addition to entertaining members in VIP style and coordinating each successful allocation release, she plays a major role in overall team management and strategic planning.
Shelby is always in motion. Whether braving boot camp workouts in the wee hours, paddling on the river, cooking wood-fired pizza with her chef-husband in their Healdsburg backyard, or chairing fundraising events for her daughter’s school – Shelby is a true force of nature!
Membership Manager
Dustin Hatcher
3 Years with Lambert Bridge
“I love the sense of family and community we have here at Lambert Bridge. From the team, to our partners, and especially our members, there is an authentic friendship between us!”
Originally from Indianapolis, Dustin attended Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business earning degrees in Marketing and International Business. Holding various positions within the hospitality industry, Dustin’s career took him to several cities before finding a home right here in Healdsburg. His wine journey began in 2021, holding marketing positions at some of Sonoma County’s most prestigious wineries.
As part of the Lambert Bridge team, Dustin draws on his extensive hospitality experience, technical knowledge, and lighthearted attitude to ensure exceptional Lambert Bridge experiences.
Outside of Lambert Bridge, you’ll find Dustin exercising, reading, and spending time at the beach. Dustin enjoys sharing great food and wine with his loved ones.
Fun facts:
- One of his first jobs in high school was in a tire shop as a tire changer.
- His favorite Lambert Bridge wine is both the Sauternes and Cuvée Blanc, not only because they are remarkable, but because of the stories behind them.
- He once handed a full-grown silverback gorilla a carrot (through a fence of course)!
Manager of Marketing + Communication
Lila Brown
10 Years with Lambert Bridge
“What I love most about wine is that it represents a time and a place. Each bottle can take you on a unique journey whether it’s somewhere you have been or maybe a place not yet ventured.”
Having grown up amongst the farms and vineyards of Sonoma County, Lila set out to travel the world in search of new tastes and experiences. Five years living along the shores of the Mediterranean nurtured her passion for all things food and wine and brought her full-circle back to Healdsburg — and Lambert Bridge!
When Lila is not planning our next big event, you can find her popping up at weddings with her vintage Shasta trailer, Vino A Go Go or teaching at The Daily Method.
Events Manager
Michele Ferreti
15 Years with Lambert Bridge
“I love the beautiful people, wine, and atmosphere that Sonoma County creates. This experience fills my heart and soul with love and hope as the family I create and community I expand connect with me through food and wine. In short, I love working at Lambert Bridge!”
Michele brings warmth, humor, and a deep love for Sonoma County to everything she does — especially here in our beautiful tasting room. A longtime member of the Lambert Bridge team, she previously assisted with special events and has recently stepped into a more permanent role as a Hospitality Manager. Her passion for wine, food, and authentic connection is infectious — if you weren’t already dreaming of moving to Sonoma County, a conversation with Michele just might seal the deal.
When she’s not at the winery, you’ll often find Michele relaxing on her porch with a glass of wine, chatting with her two daughters who are both in school up in Oregon, or spending quality time with friends and family nearby.
Hospitality Manager
Kathy Salisbury
5 Years with Lambert Bridge
“I have always had a deep appreciation for the beauty of Sonoma County and the gifts the land provides. I feel so fortunate to work for Lambert Bridge, where excellence & passion drive the team!”
Kathy moved to Sebastopol with her family at the age of ten. She has fond memories of playing in the river, riding horses through the orchards, and of course, raking apples after school.
After graduating from Chico State with a degree in Community/Commercial Recreation, emphasis in Resort & Lodging Management, she moved to Sequoia National Forest to manage an all-inclusive, year-round lodge and summer vacation camp. While the mountains were her refuge and playground for six years, she was drawn back to Sonoma County to pursue new opportunities in and out of the hospitality industry.
Kathy raised her three daughters, Abigail, Bridget & Hannah on a vineyard property, where they immersed themselves in the growing and harvest activities happening all around them. Dirty hands and boots were welcome in their household! Little did Kathy know that she would eventually find her professional home just up the road… right here with us!
Assistant Hospitality Manager
Valentina Méndez Cortés
3 Years with Lambert Bridge
“What I love the most about Lambert Bridge is that I get the full picture of the wine industry. I get to experience the entire process – from the vineyards, through winemaking, and into the tasting room. Of course, being able to see the sunrise during harvest is magic!”
Born and raised in Colombia, Valentina’s love for the outdoors and agriculture began at a young age. A graduate in Agricultural Engineering from the National University of Colombia, she specialized in working with diverse flowers and coffee crops.
Drawn to the United States, Valentina quickly embraced the world of winemaking, intrigued by the dynamic transformation from grapes to finished wine. Her first position in Sonoma County was an internship in neighboring Chalk Hill, while simultaneously pursuing winemaking courses at UC Davis. Originally working in the lab and focusing on the chemistry side of winemaking, Valentina was ready to make her transition to the vineyards. Joining the Lambert Bridge team in 2023, Valentina oversees all grape-growing practices. She serves as the eyes in the vineyards, walking the steep slopes and meticulously monitoring the vines. Collaborating with the winemaking team, she ensures the grapes reach their full potential from both our estate vineyards and esteemed partners.
When not trekking in the vineyards, Valentina never rests. She enjoys exercising – taking her favorite spin and Zumba classes.
Fun facts:
- She can sing the entire Fresh Prince of Bel Air song in Spanish.
- Her favorite Lambert Bridge wine is the Sei Querce Sauvignon Blanc – the aromas of the fresh, tropical, and yellow fruit remind her of Colombia.
- Since moving to the United States, she dreams in Spanglish.
Assistant Viticulturist
JP Lonergan
10 Years with Lambert Bridge
“Whenever I taste an incredible wine there is an instant of discovery that I call the OMG moment. As Estate Sommelier, I try to make those moments possible for the people I serve.”
JP Lonergan spent six years as the owner-operator of a trendy wine bar in Lake Tahoe. He is a CMS Certified Sommelier and earned a Certificate in the Sequential Program in Vintage at UCLA Extension. His wine knowledge is vast but he is the first to say that means very little without a passion for all things wine. “Knowledge is great but it’s just a tool. It’s your passion that gets people’s attention.”
When JP wants to “get away from it all”, he plans wine tasting excursions for groups as their Somm for the day!
Estate Sommelier
Danielle Bernal
3 Years with Lambert Bridge
“Working at Lambert Bridge feels like a dream come true, and there’s truly never a bad day! The combination of exceptional wines, friendly people, and a breathtaking setting make it an honor to be part of this extraordinary team.”
Born and raised in Sonoma County, Danielle’s culinary background and love for good food and wine have been deeply ingrained from a young age. After spending years as a private chef in Los Angeles, Danielle was drawn to the wine industry because it is an extension of the culinary world—a way to create connections and memories, much like the ones shared around a dinner table. Danielle joined Lambert Bridge in September 2023, marking the beginning of her exciting journey in the wine industry.
Outside of work, you’ll find Danielle enjoying the great outdoors, attending live music events, and exploring new destinations. She enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, as well as with her four-legged companion, Piper.
Fun facts:
- Danielle has a 7 year old Dalmatian named Piper
- Her favorite Lambert Bridge wine is the Cabernet Franc because of its versatility. It’s terrific with food or simply by itself
- She holds Italian citizenship – a nod to her rich heritage and love for great food and wine
Wine Educator
Richard Butori
29 Years with Lambert Bridge
“I love coming to work at Lambert Bridge because I have such a wide variety of jobs to do here. Even after nearly 30 years, every day is new and different!”
“Handyman” doesn’t begin to describe Richard’s role at Lambert Bridge. Whether he is repairing, cleaning, shipping, driving, advising, or even reporting on the Giants’ scores, Richard is involved in just about everything that goes on at the winery.
Self-described as a “professional tourist,” Richard loves to travel. A weekend never passes without Richard returning to work with his tales of adventure. When he is staying put, he grows and makes zinfandel on his Geyserville property.
Handyman Extraordinaire
Mariko Morikawa
28 Years with Lambert Bridge
“I sometimes get teased that I drink so little wine even though I work for such a wonderful winery. Lambert Bridge is a perfect place for me, not only because I am proud of our product, but because I work for a family that I admire and respect, the Chambers family.”
Mariko is the stealthy superhero of Lambert Bridge. She may appear to be quiet and unassuming but looks deceive: Mariko keeps the business running as our Administrative Coordinator and saves the day as our resident I.T. expert should office equipment or computer systems fail.
When not rescuing us, Mariko spends time with her grandson Giovanni, cruises the backroads of Sonoma County in her convertible Miata, and enjoys the bounty of fresh Sonoma County cuisine with likeminded foodies.
Administrative Coordinator
Bella Scribner
9 Years with Lambert Bridge
“Every day I wake up I feel grateful to live in such a beautiful area of the world, to be close to my loving family, and work at a place that feels like a second home.”
A Sonoma County native, Bella has a deep loyalty and love for all things local! After coming back to the area once her studies ended in Southern California, she found Lambert Bridge and fell in love. A project enthusiast, Bella works hard behind the scenes to make sure all your packages of wine are delivered safely – you can always find her running around the winery on a mission! Whether it is talking with customers, coordinating with a shipping company, packing boxes, working on spreadsheets, or organizing, you will always find a smile on her face!
Coming from a large family, Bella loves spending time with her siblings that live in the area, and is an ardent board-game-player. She also enjoys drawing, working out, and wine tasting with friends!
Assistant Membership Manager
Stefanie Nourse
10 Years with Lambert Bridge
“Lambert Bridge is a wonderful place to work. The location and setting are awe-inspiring. I work with a great team and we collaborate beautifully. It’s truly a pleasure to work for a winery that is so focused on producing a high quality product. I find joy in sharing my knowledge while being a part of our clients’ memories”
Stefanie Nourse has been serving the Sonoma County wine industry for 20 years. Prior to joining Lambert Bridge, her experience in hospitality included J Vineyards & Winery and Lasseter Family Winery, among others.
Born and raised in Santa Rosa, she credits her Italian heritage for spearheading her career. It was the delightful aroma of simple meals, lovingly prepared by her Italian grandmother in a kitchen filled with conversation, laughter, family and friends, all around a farmhouse table where wine was always an essential component of the meal.
Her passion and enthusiasm for wine is contagious. Spend time with her at the winery tasting the distinctive Lambert Bridge wines and it’s impossible not to have her bubbly personality rub off on you.
When not at the winery, you’ll find Stefanie tending to her garden, cooking for friends and family, or teaching Italian to students ranging in age from 5 to 95!
Wine Educator
Kurtis Pavilionis
3 Years with Lambert Bridge
Kurtis grew up in Reno and feels most at home in the mountains and outdoors. He developed a love for the wine industry while earning his marketing degree at UNR and, once graduated, moved to Sonoma County to pursue his professional dreams. Kurtis is always on the lookout for new wines and exotic foods to bring to his table. He also enjoys traveling and new experiences to constantly expand his horizons.
Wine Educator
Dawnell May
4 Years with Lambert Bridge
An Ursuline High School graduate, Dawnell was born and raised in Santa Rosa and has called Northern California home her entire life. After moving to Cloverdale six years ago to be closer to her daughter, son-in-law, and three beloved grandsons, her roots in the region only deepened.
A familiar face at Lambert Bridge, Dawnell returned to the team in December 2023 after previously working with the winery from 2000 to 2008. With over 31 years of experience in the wine industry—entirely spent in hospitality and tasting rooms—her passion for food and wine has been the driving force behind her career. When asked to pick a favorite Lambert Bridge wine, she admits it’s like picking a favorite child, but the Sauvignon Blanc stands out as her go-to for its versatility and bright character—perfect with food or shared with friends. She also really loves the Malbec among others.
Outside of work, Dawnell enjoys traveling, wine tasting, cooking, entertaining, and spending time with family (especially her grandsons) and her loyal dog, Duke.
Fun Fact:
One of the many surprises behind her warm and welcoming presence is that she is a secret thrill seeker, having even been skydiving.
Wine Educator
Finn Higgins
10 Years with Lambert Bridge
“Growing up in wine country, Lambert Bridge has remained a beautiful getaway from the daily grind. Having the opportunity to join the LB family has been a blessing as it lets me share my passion for our carefully crafted wines with new guests every day”
Born and raised in Santa Rosa, Finn Higgins has been surrounded by wine culture for as long as he can remember. With deep roots in the industry, Finn’s journey began back in 2005, helping his mother and Winemaker, Jennifer Higgins at Lancaster Estate. After graduating from Santa Rosa Junior College and now pursuing a BA in Wine Business, Finn has already gained valuable hands-on experience, working harvests in Dry Creek Valley, Hawkes Bay (New Zealand), and the Russian River Valley.
Although his connection to the winery began years earlier, Finn officially joined the Lambert Bridge team as a Wine Educator in April 2025. Through the years, he has helped with bottling, interned during harvests, and even worked as a Busser/Dishwasher as early as 2017. Finn brings not just knowledge but a genuine passion to every guest experience.
When he’s not at the winery, you might find him devouring a good book, sharpening his pool game, or cruising the backroads on his motorcycle.
Fun Facts:
He once rode over 2,000 miles in two weeks, venturing from Santa Rosa to Las Vegas and Phoenix.
Wine Educator
Hank Schreeder
1 Year with Lambert Bridge
“My wife and I first started coming to Lambert Bridge to enjoy a picnic in the garden. Experiencing picturesque surroundings and sampling excellent wine made for an ideal day together. Now I get to see guests arrive and have that very same experience.”
A California native and longtime Sonoma County resident, Hank has spent more than 35 years exploring all that the region has to offer—and he’s still discovering new corners of its history and character. His deep appreciation for Sonoma County, its people, and its heritage makes him proud to call it home.
After a long and fulfilling career in public service, Hank recently joined the Lambert Bridge team, drawn by the welcoming atmosphere and the joy that comes from creating memorable experiences for guests. While he’s new to the wine industry professionally, his appreciation for wine runs deep. Over the years, he’s spent time making wine with friends, gaining firsthand insight into the complexity and craft behind high-quality winemaking.
Lambert Bridge has long been a favorite destination for him and his wife, thanks to its exceptional wines and beautiful setting. His go-to bottle is the Crane Creek Cuvée, an elegant blend he loves for its versatility—perfect for a relaxed Tuesday night or any occasion worth savoring.
Outside of work, Hank enjoys traveling the world, hiking throughout Sonoma County, and camping with his wife. If fly fishing can be part of the adventure, even better. He’s also the proud father of two adult sons and, best of all, a grandfather to three wonderful grandchildren.
Wine Educator
Danny Dillon
2 Years with Lambert Bridge
“What I love about Lambert Bridge is the attention we give the wines during the winemaking process, the constant communication about what it means to produce ultra-premium, vineyard-focused wines, and the drive to improve our processes every day.”
A Healdsburg native and proud Hound, Danny joined the Lambert Bridge production team in April 2024. With a background in wine production dating back to 2014, Danny was drawn to the industry by the unique blend of science, craftsmanship, and the joy of creating something to share with others.
Danny’s favorite Lambert Bridge wine is the Rosé—an easy favorite for its refreshing charm on summer nights. Outside the winery, Danny enjoys gardening, spending time with his beloved dog Mia, and checking out local breweries with friends.
Fun facts:
Danny played varsity soccer in high school and was twice voted Player of the Month.
He is a former junior champion salsa dancer, and yes, he’s still fully capable of lighting up the dance floor!
Cellar Lead
