The Winemaker
Winemaker Brian Gruber came to Irvine & Roberts Vineyards with rich experience in crafting world-class wines. Prior to joining Irvine & Roberts, Brian managed and made wines for several heralded brands including Quady North, Barrel 42 Custom Winecraft and Troon Vineyard, and founded Swallow Hill Vineyard in Ashland. While it’s not uncommon for a winemaker to carve an unusual path to a vineyard career, Brian’s route has been exceptionally diverse. Following an 11-year career with the U.S. Air Force in Personnel Command, he decided to pursue a Masters of Public Policy at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. It was while doing a stint in banking after grad school that Brian realized his heart’s calling was as a grower and maker.
Nearly 100 wines made under Brian’s direction have scored 90 points plus, and have received numerous awards throughout the country.Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator recognized five wines made by Brian in their “Top 100 Wines” feature.
