Riley Johnson

As cellar specialist at Quilceda Creek, Riley oversees day-to-day cellar activities including barrel topping, tasting, blending and other tactical winemaking responsibilities alongside President Paul Golitzin and Winemaker Mark Kaigas.

Prior to joining the winery, Riley had a successful career in the spirits industry where he spent several years specializing in the production of whiskey and gin at local distilleries in Washington. Most recently, he held the role of lead distiller at Woodinville Whiskey Co., and prior to that, he served as assistant distiller at OOLA. During this time, Riley moonlighted as a home winemaker with his mother, further igniting his love for the craft. When the opportunity to work with and learn from the knowledgeable team at Quilceda Creek arose, Riley’s move into the wine industry was a natural next step.

A Washington native, Riley grew up with do-it-yourself values instilled by his parents, who encouraged him to embrace new challenges and learn through hands-on experiences. He cites his great grandfather who had a farm in Iowa for his multi-generational value of approaching agriculture with integrity. These skills and values created the foundation for Riley’s success in the world of fine wine.

Riley graduated from Denison University in Ohio where he received a degree in Global Commerce and English Literature. While studying abroad in London, he traveled to the Scottish Highlands where he visited several distilleries and developed an appreciation for the craft as well as a unique perspective on the balance of agriculture and science, and how they come together to create a product people can share and enjoy.

Riley is currently pursuing his enology certificate at Washington State University. Outside of work he enjoys woodworking, cooking, and spending time with his wife and son.