George Christie is the founder, president and chief executive officer of Wine Industry Network (WIN). The company keeps industry professionals informed about current trends and industry news, as well as the latest products, services, jobs, and innovations in the production, viticulture, sales, marketing and management categories.
A New Jersey native, Christie moved to California in 1991 and quickly fell in love with Sonoma County—Healdsburg in particular—where he lives with his wife of 20 years, Tami, and their two daughters, Olivia and Skylar.
Do you remember your first date with your wife?
Yes. We drove to Bodega Bay and had dinner at Lucas Wharf. We just talked for hours and hours—it was great!
Where do you take friends and family who come to visit you in Wine Country?
If they’re from the East Coast, I always take them to Armstrong Woods. The old growth trees never fail to amaze people who are seeing them for the first time.
If you could only drink one wine varietal forever, which would you choose?
Zin. Maybe because I started my wine career in Dry Creek Valley. Zinfandel is my all-time favorite.
Who’s the best cook you know, and what’s his or her specialty?
My wife. She can cook anything, but I love it when she cooks Persian food best.
What’s your favorite season of the year?
I love fall for a lot of reasons, but mainly how beautiful the changing colors of the leaves look, especially in the vineyards. It’s spectacular.
Are you more of a dog person or a cat person?
Dogs all the way.
Do you prefer exercising your mind or body?
I don’t have a preference. I like to work out pretty regularly. And with my job, I feel like my mind is always being exercised.
Which movies have you watched over and over again?
The Godfather, On Any Given Sunday, and Invincible.
If you could go back in time, what year would you visit?
I’ve been lucky to have a lot of great memories, but I think 1991. I was 25, and it was the year I drove to California with one of my best friends. It was a year full of adventure and uncertainty. Great times.
If you could give one gift to your children, what would it be?
Confidence. With confidence, there’s nothing you can’t accomplish.
What’s the secret to a long life?
A loving family, good friends and having something to look forward to.
What do you miss most about New Jersey?
Summer nights, and the beach. There’s nothing better than the Jersey shore—super fun.
What card game are you best at playing?
In my mind, all of them. In reality, I lose all the time!
What’s your favorite song to play on guitar?
That changes pretty regularly, but lately I’ve been working on getting better on some old Eagles, Neil Young and Rolling Stones songs.
