03/19 DONALD PATZ AND CHRIS HYDE

DONALD PATZ FROM THE SECRET DOOR WINERY - A CULINARY EVENING WITH THE WINEMASTERS

Born in Fargo, North Dakota but lived in both Minnesota and Oregon before coming to California in 1983. He earned a degree in Biology from the University of Oregon. Mr. Patz’s career in wine spans four decades in the wine business at virtually every level from retail through sales and production. He worked for Flora Springs Winery, Girard Winery before dedicating full time to his previous winery business Patz & Hall Winery. Mr. Patz is a notable personality and highly regarded professional within the California wine business. His expertise in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines is unquestioned and although less well-known Mr. Patz also has experience with Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Secret Door Winery is his chance to exercise his skills in a familiar but new arena.


CHRIS HYDE - GENERAL MANAGER AT HYDE VINEYARDS & DIRECTOR OF VITICULTURE, HYDE DE VILLAINE

Christopher Hyde has always had a passion for land. After studying Agricultural Business and Viticulture at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Farm Management, Chris worked an internship in sales at Wilson Daniels. From there, Christopher joined the Hyde Vineyards team as viticulturist and helped co-found Larry Hyde and Sons Winery with his father and brother. In 2010, Chris went on to work at Merryvale Vineyards as a viticulturist and cellar worker before assuming the role of General Manager at Hyde Vineyards and Director of Viticulture at Hyde de Villaine Winery in 2012, where he continues to work closely with his father Larry.

In 2015, the latest chapter began, as Chris received his MBA in the second graduating class from Sonoma State University Wine-Business intensive Master’s program and the initiation of construction for the Hyde and Sons Estate Winery in Carneros.

In his free time, Christopher enjoys mountain biking, skiing, wine, and travel.