Team - The Walls Vineyards

Meet the Team

Mike
Martin

OWNER

Mike turned his passion for wine and curiosity about life into a second career by building The Walls. As a technology executive, he once focused on building great businesses. Now, his focus rests solely on bringing distinctive wines and great people together. He is committed to our team and supporting our efforts to produce wines that are true expressions of time and place.

Damon Lalonde

VITICULTURIST

Damon Lalonde developed a passion for wine as a youth while visiting his great uncle in the Napa Valley. He spent several years at Chateau St. Michelle as a Viticulturist and then struck out on his own, managing vineyards in various AVAs of Washington State. Damon brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, experience and talent to our vineyards and works closely with our winemaking team to ensure our vineyards are farmed at the highest level.

Sally Johnson Blum

EXECUTIVE WINEMAKER

Hailing from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Sally fell in love with winemaking during her studies in France. Armed with degrees in French literature, biology, and a UC Davis master’s in winemaking, she embarked on what has become a stellar career. In her 15 years as head Winemaker at Pride Mountain Vineyards, she earned numerous accolades including two 100-point scores from Robert Parker and three wines on the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines. Sally brings her dynamic energy and expertise to The Walls and Pášxa.

Valerie
Kern

NATIONAL SALES

Valerie has worked in the wine industry for several years and earned her Bachelor’s in Wine and Viticulture at Cal Poly. After working in wine regions around the world, she transplanted permanently to Washington state, which has allowed her to combine her love for wine with the beautiful PNW.

Serafin Saldana

VINEYARD MANAGER

Serafin has 15 years of experience with The Rocks District. His extensive knowledge of the viticulture in the Rocks District of Milton Freewater in particular is an enormous asset in the farming of our estate properties.

Ben Kaehler

GENERAL MANAGER

After a career in Wine Importing and Distribution in Chicago, the allure of the Pacific Northwest proved irresistible. Ben and his family made the move to Oregon’s Willamette Valley, where he assumed the position of General Manager at Lemelson Vineyards. Following 7 years immersed in Pinot noir, Ben transitioned from cool climate viticulture to the Walla Walla Valley where the Rhône and Bordeaux varietals thrive. He now leads the team at The Walls and PÁŠXA in their quest for inspired hospitality and exceptional wines.

Kyla Haren Moye

DIRECTOR OF HOSPITALITY AND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Kyla Haren developed a passion for community as a youth in the Academy of Children’s Theater in Washington State. This laid the groundwork for her ability to do a bit of everything – and her DIY moxie. Kyla also previously managed a cheese shop. We are excited to have a Cheese Monger in our midst, adding a bit of food and wine pairing to our concierge offerings. Although her title is officially Hospitality Director, Kyla lends her professional, dynamic and energetic personality to all sorts of roles at The Walls. We are fortunate to have her on our team!

Danielle Knott

DTC MANAGER

Danielle is a dynamic professional with expertise in hospitality, agriculture, and direct-to-consumer marketing. Originally from Portland, Oregon, Danielle’s journey has taken her from the busy streets of New York City to the vineyards of Washington State. In New York, she cultivated rooftop farms during the day and served in Michelin-starred restaurants by night. Her background provides a unique perspective, allowing her to approach her work with creativity, enthusiasm, and a deep appreciation for the craft of winemaking. Outside of work, Danielle channels her adventurous spirit into beekeeping and roller derby. She brings her signature blend of passion and dedication to The Walls Vineyards.

Steve Grabinski

CELLAR MASTER

Steve’s Bio Coming soon!

Brittnie Marick

HOSPITALITY LEAD

A local to Walla Walla, Brittnie has been able to first-handedly observe the growth of the wine industry here. Having worked and managed in several service positions, her sense of hospitality and warmth is unparalleled and her knowledge of the area is thorough to say the least. Brittnie is happy to make insightful recommendations to your next visit and has yet to meet a stranger.

Andrea Múnoz

HOSPITALITY ASSOCIATE

Andrea Munoz is a dynamic individual who brings a unique blend of marketing prowess, a passion for fashion, and a talent for crafting delightful coffee experiences. Currently on the verge of completing her marketing degree at Arizona State University, Andrea joins us with a fresh perspective and a wealth of knowledge.

Her academic background equips her with the latest marketing strategies, ensuring our winery stays ahead in the competitive landscape. Beyond her academic achievements, Andrea is our in-house fashionista, infusing creativity and style into our brand image. Her keen eye for aesthetics will undoubtedly contribute to enhancing the overall visual appeal of our winery, creating memorable experiences for our customers.