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Team

Our team is dedicated to crafting the very best experiences for Chamisal fans. Whether that’s through a great bottle of wine or an afternoon at our tasting room, meet the team who makes it all happen.

Brianne EnglesWinemaker
George ElliottAssistant Winemaker
Brooke SerafineEstate Manager
Jacob HollimanAssistant Tasting Room Manager
Julie HigginsFull Time Hospitality Associate
Macie VieiraFull Time Hospitality Associate
Brianne Engles Bio Photo

Brianne Engles Winemaker

Brianne grew up in the small seaside town of Pacific Grove, California and started working at a high-end restaurant at age of 15 years old where she was exposed early to the world of wine. She began her formal winemaking education as Cal Poly State University, and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Wine and Viticulture. In addition to that, she holds the Level 3 Advanced Certification with The Wine & Spirit Education Trust.

In her 17 years in the winemaking industry, Brianne has chosen to work at several notable wineries including Two Hands in South Australia, Duckhorn and Quintessa in Napa Valley and Adelaida Cellars in Paso Robles. She currently holds the Winemaker position with Chamisal Vineyards in Edna Valley, where she continues to expand her knowledge and expertise. With each wine she makes she strives to honor the terroir from which the grapes are grown and to capture the essence of Central Coast sunshine, soil, and the uniqueness of each particular vintage. On her days away from the winery, she can be found at a local Farmers Market, cooking for friends, hiking up a mountain or enjoying some beach time.

Bio photo of George Elliott

George Elliott Assistant Winemaker

George’s lifelong journey in the world of grape growing and winemaking was ignited early on by his parents’ decision to plant a small vineyard on their home property in the Central Coast. His thirst for knowledge and love for the craft led him to pursue a bachelor’s degree in wine and viticulture at the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.Following his academic pursuits, George embarked on a series of exciting adventures. He spent three years tending to vines in Paso Robles, honing his skills and passion for winemaking. An international sojourn
in New Zealand allowed him to dive deep into the art of crafting exceptional Pinot Noir over three unforgettable vintages. Upon returning to the United States, George’s journey continued with experiences in renowned wine regions like Napa Valley and the Sonoma Coast. These opportunities expanded his expertise and refined his palate. His grand adventure reached new heights when he settled in Walla Walla, Washington, at Corliss Estate, where he undoubtedly played a pivotal role in creating exceptional wines.Now, after a decade away, George is thrilled to be back on the Central Coast, serving as the Assistant Winemaker at Chamisal Vineyards. His unwavering passion for the intricate processes of grape growing and winemaking, along with his wealth of experience, promise exciting stories for every vintage yet
to come.

Brooke Serafine, Hospitality Manager, Chamisal Vineyards

Brooke Serafine Estate Manager

Brooke is a Central Coast native and attended California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a minor in Wine & Viticulture. Since beginning a career in wine in 2005, she has nurtured and developed her direct-to-consumer skills. She spent the first years of her career in the Napa Valley where she gained hands-on experience in all aspects of hospitality in the wine industry. Upon returning to the Central Coast in 2009, she landed the job of her dreams at the one and only Chamisal Vineyards with a familiar face from her college years. “I never imagined working anywhere other than Chamisal Vineyards when I returned home in 2009. The wines spoke to me during my college years and beyond, but more importantly, the property felt like home. Knowing the history of the vineyards and wines, I knew that being associated with Chamisal Vineyards would forever change my world.”

After six years at Chamisal, Brooke took a 3-year hiatus to spend time with her two children and returned as Hospitality Manager for both Chamisal Vineyards and sister property, Malene Wines. As Hospitality Manager for both brands, Brooke can use her skills from her days as a wine club manager to create and cultivate tastings and events for all guests Brooke lives on the Central Coast with her husband Tyler and two children, Logan and Sydney. In addition to her passion for wine, Brooke can be found practicing yoga, dining with family and friends or getting involved in her children’s extracurricular activities.

Jacob Holliman Assistant Tasting Room Manager

Jacob was born and raised in New York but always says “his soul has always been in the central coast”. Since he was a young boy, he always knew he wanted to be in the wine industry. Traveling with his grandfather to boutique vineyards and small wine regions across America captivated him. While in college at the University of Missouri studying communications and history, Jacob would spend his summers working in unique wine regions. In areas like Lake Champlain, New York, Mackinaw Island, Michigan and Maryland to name a few.  

After graduating from college, Jacob spent time working and traveling in Asia. While visiting places like Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Indonesia, and Vietnam he gained amazing cultural skills and connections with all walks of life. At the time of the pandemic and returning to the US, he knew it was time to begin his career in the wine industry and central coast was the only candidate on his list. Spending his first few years in California working with a 6th generation French winemaker, he learned the ins and outs of the Central Coast wine culture. Wanting to expand his knowledge and his love for Edna Valley, Jacob knew he wanted to be a part of Chamisal Vineyards and stayed patient until his opportunity arrived. His passion lies with connecting to people and introducing them to the nuances of the region. Drawn by the unique terroir of Edna Valley, where the cool coastal climate and diverse soil types intertwine, he immerses himself in sharing the region’s unique flavors, inviting others to explore its richness. 

When he is not in the winery or exploring new ways to bring our wines to life in the tasting room, you can find Jacob surfing Pismo pier, hiking, kayaking, or exploring one of our State Parks. Jacob considers himself a California native now and has firmly planted his roots in the central coast.  

Julie Higgins Full Time Hospitality Associate

Julie earned a bachelor’s degree in social science from Chapman University, where her first career was focused in early childhood education. Julie spent a few years teaching before she took on the role as mom to her 3 children. Julie later returned to the classroom after raising her family.

Julie’s interest in the wine industry post-COVID and as an avid lover of wine, growing up in California’s Central Valley and Central Coast, she took a leap into an industry that she admired from afar. She started as a part-time hospitality associate and quickly found a deep passion and ease with connecting to guests in our tasting room. She enjoys building personal connections with our guests and making them feel like they have been welcomed to an old friend’s home. Her ability to connect with our guests while sharing our story makes building those connections effortless and genuine. She’s learning many facets of the industry and shows pure enthusiasm for what lies ahead with Chamisal Vineyards. She also has found special events to be another exciting space in the wine industry. Julie has assisted with club events, signature events and private events where she has the opportunity to take her ‘hosting’ capabilities to another level outside of the tasting room. This new path has been both exciting and rewarding, and she’s thrilled to be part of the vibrant wine community at Chamisal Vineyards.

Outside of the tasting room, Julie and her husband, Sterling, have been married 25 years and she loves having their three children ages 23, 21 and 19, nearby. In Julie’s spare time you can find her enjoying a pilates workout, playing pickleball, participating in book clubs, and hosting friends and family with new recipes and dishes paired with her favorite Chamisal wines.

Macie Vieira Full Time Hospitality Associate

Macie is a proud graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where she earned a degree in Agricultural and Environmental Plant Science with a concentration in Plant Protection. Growing up in California’s Central Valley, she developed a strong connection to the land and agriculture, gaining firsthand experience farming that has shaped her understanding of sustainable practices and crop management. 

Macie’s passion for wine began with a deep appreciation for the complexity and artistry involved in winemaking. From viticulture to the final bottle, she was immediately captivated by the delicate balance of science and craftsmanship that goes into every step of the process. This fascination has driven her commitment to producing wines that not only reflect the unique characteristics of the vineyard but also honor the rich agricultural heritage of the region.

Macie’s role at Chamisal Vineyards allows her the opportunity to share that passion for the wines we produce, the balance of science and craftsmanship in the wines that we make and share our Estates foundation of sustainable practices while being stewards of the land with our consumers. 

Outside of the Tasting Room, Macie loves to hang out with her family and friends, dining, working out, travelling, and enjoying the beauty of the Central Coast.

Brianne Engles Bio Photo

Brianne Engles Winemaker

Brianne grew up in the small seaside town of Pacific Grove, California and started working at a high-end restaurant at age of 15 years old where she was exposed early to the world of wine. She began her formal winemaking education as Cal Poly State University, and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Wine and Viticulture. In addition to that, she holds the Level 3 Advanced Certification with The Wine & Spirit Education Trust.

In her 17 years in the winemaking industry, Brianne has chosen to work at several notable wineries including Two Hands in South Australia, Duckhorn and Quintessa in Napa Valley and Adelaida Cellars in Paso Robles. She currently holds the Winemaker position with Chamisal Vineyards in Edna Valley, where she continues to expand her knowledge and expertise. With each wine she makes she strives to honor the terroir from which the grapes are grown and to capture the essence of Central Coast sunshine, soil, and the uniqueness of each particular vintage. On her days away from the winery, she can be found at a local Farmers Market, cooking for friends, hiking up a mountain or enjoying some beach time.

Read More Read Less
Bio photo of George Elliott

George Elliott Assistant Winemaker

George’s lifelong journey in the world of grape growing and winemaking was ignited early on by his parents’ decision to plant a small vineyard on their home property in the Central Coast. His thirst for knowledge and love for the craft led him to pursue a bachelor’s degree in wine and viticulture at the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.Following his academic pursuits, George embarked on a series of exciting adventures. He spent three years tending to vines in Paso Robles, honing his skills and passion for winemaking. An international sojourn
in New Zealand allowed him to dive deep into the art of crafting exceptional Pinot Noir over three unforgettable vintages. Upon returning to the United States, George’s journey continued with experiences in renowned wine regions like Napa Valley and the Sonoma Coast. These opportunities expanded his expertise and refined his palate. His grand adventure reached new heights when he settled in Walla Walla, Washington, at Corliss Estate, where he undoubtedly played a pivotal role in creating exceptional wines.Now, after a decade away, George is thrilled to be back on the Central Coast, serving as the Assistant Winemaker at Chamisal Vineyards. His unwavering passion for the intricate processes of grape growing and winemaking, along with his wealth of experience, promise exciting stories for every vintage yet
to come.

Read More Read Less
Brooke Serafine, Hospitality Manager, Chamisal Vineyards

Brooke Serafine Estate Manager

Brooke is a Central Coast native and attended California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a minor in Wine & Viticulture. Since beginning a career in wine in 2005, she has nurtured and developed her direct-to-consumer skills. She spent the first years of her career in the Napa Valley where she gained hands-on experience in all aspects of hospitality in the wine industry. Upon returning to the Central Coast in 2009, she landed the job of her dreams at the one and only Chamisal Vineyards with a familiar face from her college years. “I never imagined working anywhere other than Chamisal Vineyards when I returned home in 2009. The wines spoke to me during my college years and beyond, but more importantly, the property felt like home. Knowing the history of the vineyards and wines, I knew that being associated with Chamisal Vineyards would forever change my world.”

After six years at Chamisal, Brooke took a 3-year hiatus to spend time with her two children and returned as Hospitality Manager for both Chamisal Vineyards and sister property, Malene Wines. As Hospitality Manager for both brands, Brooke can use her skills from her days as a wine club manager to create and cultivate tastings and events for all guests Brooke lives on the Central Coast with her husband Tyler and two children, Logan and Sydney. In addition to her passion for wine, Brooke can be found practicing yoga, dining with family and friends or getting involved in her children’s extracurricular activities.

Read More Read Less

Jacob Holliman Assistant Tasting Room Manager

Jacob was born and raised in New York but always says “his soul has always been in the central coast”. Since he was a young boy, he always knew he wanted to be in the wine industry. Traveling with his grandfather to boutique vineyards and small wine regions across America captivated him. While in college at the University of Missouri studying communications and history, Jacob would spend his summers working in unique wine regions. In areas like Lake Champlain, New York, Mackinaw Island, Michigan and Maryland to name a few.  

After graduating from college, Jacob spent time working and traveling in Asia. While visiting places like Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Indonesia, and Vietnam he gained amazing cultural skills and connections with all walks of life. At the time of the pandemic and returning to the US, he knew it was time to begin his career in the wine industry and central coast was the only candidate on his list. Spending his first few years in California working with a 6th generation French winemaker, he learned the ins and outs of the Central Coast wine culture. Wanting to expand his knowledge and his love for Edna Valley, Jacob knew he wanted to be a part of Chamisal Vineyards and stayed patient until his opportunity arrived. His passion lies with connecting to people and introducing them to the nuances of the region. Drawn by the unique terroir of Edna Valley, where the cool coastal climate and diverse soil types intertwine, he immerses himself in sharing the region’s unique flavors, inviting others to explore its richness. 

When he is not in the winery or exploring new ways to bring our wines to life in the tasting room, you can find Jacob surfing Pismo pier, hiking, kayaking, or exploring one of our State Parks. Jacob considers himself a California native now and has firmly planted his roots in the central coast.  

Read More Read Less

Julie Higgins Full Time Hospitality Associate

Julie earned a bachelor’s degree in social science from Chapman University, where her first career was focused in early childhood education. Julie spent a few years teaching before she took on the role as mom to her 3 children. Julie later returned to the classroom after raising her family.

Julie’s interest in the wine industry post-COVID and as an avid lover of wine, growing up in California’s Central Valley and Central Coast, she took a leap into an industry that she admired from afar. She started as a part-time hospitality associate and quickly found a deep passion and ease with connecting to guests in our tasting room. She enjoys building personal connections with our guests and making them feel like they have been welcomed to an old friend’s home. Her ability to connect with our guests while sharing our story makes building those connections effortless and genuine. She’s learning many facets of the industry and shows pure enthusiasm for what lies ahead with Chamisal Vineyards. She also has found special events to be another exciting space in the wine industry. Julie has assisted with club events, signature events and private events where she has the opportunity to take her ‘hosting’ capabilities to another level outside of the tasting room. This new path has been both exciting and rewarding, and she’s thrilled to be part of the vibrant wine community at Chamisal Vineyards.

Outside of the tasting room, Julie and her husband, Sterling, have been married 25 years and she loves having their three children ages 23, 21 and 19, nearby. In Julie’s spare time you can find her enjoying a pilates workout, playing pickleball, participating in book clubs, and hosting friends and family with new recipes and dishes paired with her favorite Chamisal wines.

Read More Read Less

Macie Vieira Full Time Hospitality Associate

Macie is a proud graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where she earned a degree in Agricultural and Environmental Plant Science with a concentration in Plant Protection. Growing up in California’s Central Valley, she developed a strong connection to the land and agriculture, gaining firsthand experience farming that has shaped her understanding of sustainable practices and crop management. 

Macie’s passion for wine began with a deep appreciation for the complexity and artistry involved in winemaking. From viticulture to the final bottle, she was immediately captivated by the delicate balance of science and craftsmanship that goes into every step of the process. This fascination has driven her commitment to producing wines that not only reflect the unique characteristics of the vineyard but also honor the rich agricultural heritage of the region.

Macie’s role at Chamisal Vineyards allows her the opportunity to share that passion for the wines we produce, the balance of science and craftsmanship in the wines that we make and share our Estates foundation of sustainable practices while being stewards of the land with our consumers. 

Outside of the Tasting Room, Macie loves to hang out with her family and friends, dining, working out, travelling, and enjoying the beauty of the Central Coast.

Read More Read Less
Vineyard and tasting room at Chamisal Vineyards