After working a harvest in Australia (where Shiraz and Riesling are king), Ted realized how similar the climatic conditions are to California—that perhaps old-vine Riesling and Syrah could be sourced from Golden State vineyards as well. With continued study and guidance from his mentors, he found Wirz Vineyard old-vine Riesling, and in 2021 began crafting Kizor Family Cellars.

Ted has been in the wine business since 2009 and is passionate about old vines and California wine history. His winemaking journey has taken him through harvests at Ridge Vineyards, Clonakilla, Joseph Swan Vineyards, Domaine Stéphane Ogier, and ultimately to his current role as winemaker for Dunn Vineyards on Howell Mountain. He is happily settled in Napa with his wife, Gabriella Steyl—you can find them cooking for friends, gardening, or enjoying a glass of wine on their porch.