The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry
US-based premium wine company The Duckhorn Portfolio has announced several new executive leadership appointments, including a new chief operating officer.
P.J. Alviso will take on the role of executive vice president, chief operating officer, effective from 1 February 2027. He succeeds Zach Rasmuson, who has served as COO since 2012 and will now join the company’s board of directors.
Alviso joined The Duckhorn Portfolio in June 2007. Over nearly two decades, he has expanded his responsibilities while strengthening the company’s processes, strategies and culture.
In his new role, he will oversee the vineyard, winemaking, winery operations, supply strategy, supply chain, engineering and grower relations functions.
Rasmuson has been with the company since 2003 and has served as COO since 2012, and will continue in his current role through the transition. He will also continue to lead The Duckhorn Portfolio’s Founders Fund, which supports educational programmes for historically disadvantaged groups within employees’ local communities.
He commented: “After 23 years, I could not be more confident in the organisation’s direction, or in P.J. as my hand-picked successor. I am honoured to continue serving The Duckhorn Portfolio on the board of directors and look forward to continuing my work at the Founders Fund to support educational programs in our communities.”
Commenting on his appointment, Alviso said: “It is such an honour to succeed my long-time mentor, Zach, and build on the strong foundation he has helped establish over more than two decades”.
He added: “Having spent nearly 19 years growing alongside The Duckhorn Portfolio, and a lifetime spent on vineyards like ours, I have a deep appreciation for the people, craftsmanship and commitment to quality that have made this company what it is today”.
The company has also appointed Paul Passaro to the role of executive vice president, chief sales officer, and Chanel Caplan to executive vice president, chief marketing officer.
Passaro will take up the role on 5 October 2026, while Caplan’s promotion is effective as of yesterday (30 September 2026.
