Winemakers
Janis Pelletiere
Owner/Proprietor
Growing up in a traditional Italian household in Cicero Illinois, an Italian-influenced suburb on Chicago's west side, the hub of the family was always the kitchen and dining room. Often, the women gathered together to prepare delicious traditional dishes sharing stories and working shoulder to shoulder on the homemade menu, while the men of the family assembled enjoying wine and spirited conversation awaiting the main event. The meal was shared by the entire family, which included wine, and an abundance of exuberant communication and laughter. These family rituals instilled in Janis a deep sense of respect for family, a love of food & wine, and the joys of a collaborative effort. Our Pelletiere Estate wines are a reflection of these ideals and of our commitment to sustainable farming and gentle winemaking techniques.
Natasha Boffman
Winemaker
Natasha received a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. She BEGAN HER CAREER behind the scenes in a winery laboratory, immersed in the industry but yearning for a more creative role in the wineMAKING process. This experience made her realize her true calling, winemaking. To hone her passion, Natasha pursued higher education. She graduated from UC Davis with a Master’s degree with a concentration in Enology and a thirst to cultivate a partnership between creativity and science expressed through wine.
Morgan Stepp
General Manager
Behind what makes Pelletiere Estate & Winery shine with natural beauty and great-tasting wines are hard-working women. Morgan Pelletiere Stepp, daughter of Janis Pelletiere, is one of these women. Morgan began her journey into the wine industry at a small estate winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains. There she got a taste of the many working parts that make up a successful operation including tasting room management, wine club sales, marketing, and wine production tasks. In addition, she holds a degree in Agriculture Business with minors in Biology and Economics from California Polytechnic in San Luis Obispo. Morgan is an indispensable part of Pelletiere Estate and will ensure the winery and property will remain family-operated as 2nd generation vintner. She also oversees all the estate’s creative and marketing needs as well as curates and manages the wine club.