Early Bird Ends
January 31, 2025
Judging
Date
May 19, 2025
Winners Announcement
June 10, 2025
Poundstone is a family-owned and operated winery producing small-lot wines from the Carneros region of Sonoma and Napa Valley. Melody's family has been farming in Northern California for multiple generations. Growing up, Melody experienced the hard work and challenges of farming first hand through multiple harvests.
Poundstone was inspired by Melody's grandmother. Jessie Doris Poundstone and Eula Marie Johnson were instrumental in Melody's life. Jessie and Eula ran the family ranches farming the land and modeling the way to be strong, nurturing leaders.We honor their memory and our family history each day.
Siblings, Melody and Bryan grew up getting their hands dirty on the family farm. They learned how to drive tractors and help with harvest as kids. Northern California soil is in their blood. They respect the land and focus on sustainable farming.
Inspired to create the next generation of farming, Melody purchased 4 acres of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines in Sonoma. She made her first wine in 2008 and the family business began. Melody made wine under multiple labels before launching the Poundstone label in 2013.
When Melody started making wine, she sought out a collaborator and partner. Bruce Devlin and Melody have been working together to make wines they both love since 2007. Bruce is a mentor, friend, and critical part of Poundstone's success.
Melody is the heart of Poundstone, pouring her expertise and love into all aspects of the business. She leads the family in fruit selection, winemaking, operations, and sales. A software engineer by training, Melody brings a bit of art and science to the creation of Poundstone wines. Her approach is centered on responsible farming, engineering experimentation, and a strong family tradition.
In 2007, Melody purchased a 4.0-acre vineyard in Carneros where she made her first wines, estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Melody is also a CEO and co-founder of a software company. She is a proud mom and studied history and biology at UC Berkeley.
Image: Poundstone
Cristen leads sales and marketing. Cristen began studying wine as part of the family business in 2014. She spends her days meeting with Sommeliers, Wine Directors, and Restaurant owners. Cristen leads all online channels. Cristen is also responsible for direct to consumer sales keeping all of our thirsty friends' glasses full and cellars stocked.
She studied computer graphics at CSU Chico and worked as a developer in the tech industry for many years.
Image: Poundstone wines
Bruce is the winemaking genius behind Poundstone. He works closely with Melody to produce a wine they both want to drink. Bruce Devlin was born in San Jose, California, but his birth certificate might as well have been a passport.
Image: Poundstone wines
Poundstone Wines have won many awards for their delightful wines including the Sommeliers Choice Awards 2020. This time Double Gold medal winner with 96 is Chardonnay 2017.
This heady,fleshy white from a well-farmed site is creamy and lush in mouthfeel,with a supportive backbone of acidity.The fruit is a mix of crisp green apple and more robust fig,with touches of vanilla and brioche emanating from the integrated oak.
Online Order: Distributors or wine buyers reach out to the team on info@poundstonewines.com
2025 Sommeliers Choice Awards submissions is now open for domestic and international wines. Enter your Wines now to get the early bird pricing.