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#PDNCWC
Associate Wine Judges - 2025 North Coast Wine Challenge
The Press Democrat North Coast Wine Challenge strives to be an educational platform for young wine industry professionals growing in their careers. Associate Judges are nominated by their peers and attend the judging process, each assigned a panel with our highly experienced wine judges. They get to learn and network with winemakers, sommeliers, media people and other seasoned wine industry professionals.
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CHRISTIE Olivia
Wine Industry Network / Healdsburg
Olivia Christie was born and raised in Healdsburg, California, surrounded by the world-renowned wine regions of Sonoma County. Through her work with Wine Industry Network, Olivia connects wineries with top suppliers, leveraging her understanding of the industry and its players.
Olivia holds a degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Hawaii, where she gained a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of winemaking. This academic background, combined with her lifelong connection to the region, has given her a unique perspective on the vital role wine plays in shaping communities and traditions.
A passionate advocate for the wine industry, Olivia is deeply committed to supporting Sonoma County’s rich wine heritage and promoting the innovation and craftsmanship that define it.
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JORDAN Maine
Willi's Seafood & Raw Bar / Healdsburg
Born and raised in the bay area, Jordan developed a love for the arts from a young age. Focusing on music in his early career, Jordan booked gigs playing guitar throughout the bay area, and it was in these restaurants and bars that he found another passion in the food and beverage industry. From serenading crowds to serving smiles, he began managing restaurants within Sonoma County at the age of 22, before eventually landing at Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar in Healdsburg in 2023, where he currently acts as General Manager and Wine Buyer today.
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GIANNA Passalacqua
Foley Family Wines and Spirits - Luxury Experiences / Santa Rosa
Gianna is a proud 5th-generation Healdsburg native, deeply rooted in the heart of Sonoma County’s wine country. With a family legacy in the wine industry dating back to the late 1800s, she has continued this rich tradition, bringing over a decade of personal experience to the field.
Since 2012, Gianna has honed her expertise across various facets of the wine and hospitality industry beginning with several local restaurants. Since 2016, she has been an integral part of Foley Family Wines & Spirits, taking on diverse roles that have deepened her knowledge and passion for exceptional wines.
Currently, Gianna specializes in planning and managing luxury wine and food experiences, blending history, innovation, and an eye for detail to craft unforgettable moments. Her work reflects a lifelong dedication to preserving and celebrating the artistry and culture of fine wine, ensuring every guest leaves with an indelible memory.