Patti Chambers

Owner

Patti is the owner and, Chair of the Board, of Lambert Bridge Winery. She has shaped Lambert Bridge over the last 25 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."

Michael Gilfillan

President + CEO

"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.

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Jennifer Higgins

Vice President, Winemaker + General Manager

"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.

Shelby Kolpin

Membership Manager

“I can’t believe that I’ve worked at Lambert Bridge for 20 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!

Lisa Bruich

Associate Winemaker

"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!

Valentina Méndez Cortés

Assistant Viticulturist

“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.

Lila Brown

Events Manager

“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.

Dustin Hatcher

Manager of Marketing + Communications

“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)!

Danielle Bernal

Concierge + Wine Educator

"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

Richard Butori

Handyman Extraordinaire

“I love coming to work at Lambert Bridge because I have such a wide variety of jobs to do here. Even after 20 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.

JP Lonergan

Estate Sommelier

“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!

Stefanie Nourse

Wine Educator

"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!

Kathy Salisbury

Assistant Membership Manager

“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!

Mariko Morikawa

Administrative Coordinator

“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.

Michele Ferretti

Wine Educator

“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!”

Monday through Friday, Michele works as a wonderful Transitional Kindergarten Teacher at Sonoma Country Day. On the weekend she can be found right here in our beautiful tasting room pursuing her passion of wine and connection with guests that are her own age! Michele has been with Lambert Bridge for many years, assisting with special events, and recently shifted to a more permanent position in our Tasting Room as a Wine Educator. As such, her bright personality, love of wine, food, and everything Sonoma County shine — if you weren’t already sold on the area, Michele will have you moving here within the span of a conversation.

When not with little ones or at the winery, Michele loves to sit on her porch with a glass of wine, and chat with her two daughters, both of whom are in school up in Oregon. She also relishes spending time with family and friends in the area.

Bella Scribner

Membership + Logistics Coordinator

“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!

Harrison Rose

Wine Educator

“I love working with the enthusiastic and passionate people here at Lambert Bridge. The people, wines, events, and members here are truly amazing. I wake up excited to go to work every day!”

Born and raised in Sonoma County, Harrison never thought he’d end up working in the wine industry, but once he got a taste, he never looked back! Starting out his wine career at Schug Winery in Sonoma, he quickly discovered his passion for sharing genuine experiences with guests, and developed a deep appreciation for the quality that comes from small scale wine productions. It was that same appreciation for a quality focused winery that led him straight to Lambert Bridge after 6 years at Schug – we are so thrilled to have him as part of our team!

When not providing our guests with a fun and authentic experience in our Tasting Room, Harrison loves to play music and go to live shows with his friends.

Kurtis Pavilionis

Wine Educator

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.