As winemaker at Walla Walla Vintners, Derrek Vipond brings years of varied experience to one of the legacy wineries of Washington. Born and raised in Puyallup, Derrek moved to Walla Walla in 2005 to study Enology and Viticulture at Walla Walla Community College, gaining experience working for both Forgeron Cellars and Abeja. After finishing a degree from Oregon State University in Fermentation Science, Derrek followed harvest around the world, eventually settling back in Washington with a new, worldly perspective on winemaking. Most recently, Derrek was the assistant winemaker at Long Shadows Vintners. Since joining Walla Walla Vintners in January 2019, he has been refining the winery’s portfolio, emphasizing meticulous vineyard sourcing, and crafting a new era of finely-made, elegant wines.