The Community Wine Awards recognize individuals and organizations that make Paso Robles Wine Country a better place to live and work. Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance members nominated and voted on their peers for the awards. It is exciting to announce the recipients of the 2024 Vineyard Worker of the Year, Cellar Worker of the Year, Hospitality Star, and Environmental Steward awards.
Vineyard Worker of the Year
Dave Debusk, L’Aventure Winery
“Dave has been the Vineyard Manager at L’Aventure for 21 years and, alongside Stephan, has mentored many of the area’s winemakers and countless interns. His passion for farming, our community, and his peers is apparent in how he shows up for everyone, every day. He comes in each day, ready to face whatever crazy adventure the day brings us, always with a smile. He knows every square foot of the 127 acres, and cares for the vines so that future Asseo generations will still be harvesting.”
Cellar Worker of the Year
Andrew Tucker, Turtle Rock Vineyards
“Andrew is smart and dependable with the biggest heart! He is always optimistic and ready to help anyone who needs it. He is a team leader but is always right there with his teammates including the grunt work. These among many other wonderful traits coupled with his mindfulness and dedication make him a perfect candidate for Cellar Worker of the Year!”
Hospitality Star
Leanne Toevs, L’Aventure Winery
“Leanne’s hospitality is LEGEN…wait for it…DARY! If you have spent any amount of time in the industry here, or as a repeat guest to the area, you know her; you want to be hosted by her and if you send guests to L’Aventure, you want them to meet her. She is brilliant, fun, humble, warm, and embodies the spirit of Paso Robles. There is no one else like her and we are incredibly lucky that she served Stephan sushi all those years ago, and that he saw in her the “vibe” he wanted for his guests.”
Environmental Steward
Booker Vineyard and Winery
“Hilary Graves [has led] Booker to CCOF and Regenerative Organic Certification, cutting vineyard water use in half, and implementing novel sustainable practices such as sheep grazing, falconry, and drone-based beneficial insect deployment. Hilary takes it to another level by traveling the country, spreading the word that organic and sustainable farming is not only affordable but essential to our survival.”
