Joy Andersen, Winemaker Joy Andersen is a true pioneer of the modern-day Washington wine industry. More than 25 years ago, when Joy began her career, there were only 24 winemakers in Washington state and even fewer women in the winemaking industry. Today, the state boasts more than 500 wineries and Joy leads the way as head winemaker of Snoqualmie Vineyards. Under her leadership, Snoqualmie’s reputation for releasing approachable, food-friendly wines has been recognized across the country by critics and consumers alike. Like a master chef, Joy’s approach to winemaking begins with cultivating and choosing the finest ingredients. Through the growing season, she can be found in the vineyards assessing vine and fruit development, and working with the grower to optimize pruning techniques and irrigation regimes. Come harvest, Joy is so intimately familiar with each varietal’s flavor profile that she already knows how she will showcase those flavors in the finished wine. Her winemaking philosophy is to “keep it simple” – there is often elegance in simplicity. Besides, it is difficult to improve on what Mother Nature offers us naturally. Want more in-depth information about our winemaker? Click here to view or print the detailed biography. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or higher.