Daniel Wampfler is the winemaker and general manager at the award-winning Abeja winery and tasting room in Walla Walla. Abeja also offers upscale lodging, fine dining and space for private events. Learn about Daniel Wampfler…
Hometown: Midland, MI
First job: Paper-boy at age 9, Midland Daily News
Favorite ways to spend your free time in WA: With family and friends over a great culinary experience with amazing wines.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: It’s still a work in progress, but I strive to be the best father and husband possible.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Getting through harvest 2020 with two kids going to school online due to COVID. What a juggling act! Great wines were made, and the kids didn’t miss a beat.
Someone who inspires you and why: My wife, Amy. She is the most even-keeled, thoughtful and bad-ass person I’ve ever known.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Walk before you run. Lug hoses in the cellar, get dirty in the vineyard, and do it multiple vintages in a row. So many people enter into a position in winemaking knowing just enough to be dangerous. If you think you’re ready, spend one more vintage learning, and then take the promotion.
Favorite quote: “The more relaxed you are, the better you are at everything.” –Bill Murray
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I used to be a percussionist, then a drummer, and now I’m just a hack with drum sticks.
What makes someone fabulous: Building people up, being a mentor, honesty, integrity and poised thoughtfulness.