Biography
Experience You Can Count On
Tom Payette, a premier hands on and analytical winemaking consultant, serves clients throughout the United States and internationally. His wide range of expertise includes winery and vineyard start-ups and expansions, still and sparkling wine production and general winery issues. He has worked since 1985 crafting still and sparkling wines, including seven years experience in ultra-premium Bordeaux varietal wine production in Napa, California. Tom studied under famed Bordeaux enologist Jacques Boissenot. In addition to winemaking, Mr. Payette is a noted national speaker, recognized International wine judge, contributing author to the book Winemaking Problems Solved and technical columnist for international trade magazines.
Mr. Payette recently received six awards for his winemaking achievements and contributions to the industry. Wine Business Monthly Magazine named Tom a 2020 Wine Industry Leader for his contributions to making a difference in the North American Wine Industry.
In 2019, Tom was awarded Virginia Tech’s Department of Food Science and Technology’s Distinguished Alumnus in Government or Industry Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Science Alumni Organization. The Ut Prosim Award is given annually to an alumnus who has excelled in their profession as well as contributed extensively to the betterment of their industry through community service.
The Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association presented Tom with the Wine Grape Productivity Tray in recognition of his major contributions to the sustainable growth and economic viability of the American wine industry. Tom was awarded the Virginia Governor's Cup (the most prestigious wine award in the Commonwealth) in back-to-back competitions first for his red wine, 2008 Meritage Blend, and then subsequently for his 2009 Reserve Chardonnay. Blue Ridge School awarded Tom Payette the Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. Tom Payette was named "Winemaker of the Year" in 1999.
Notwithstanding Tom's national and regional recognition, he is a humble, talented, resourceful and efficient winemaker who can teach you how to make wine and work with you in the cellar and beyond to maximize your business and resources.