Santa Rosa, Calif.—Bill Francis is the new viticulturist for Balletto Vineyards & Winery in the Russian River Valley AVA. According to a statement released by the winery, Francis fills a newly-created position and will oversee all aspects of viticulture for Balletto Vineyards’ more than 650 acres of estate vineyards, including the sustainability program, vineyard inspections, and pest and fertility management. Francis will report directly to John Balletto, owner and founder of Balletto Vineyards.

Prior to joining Balletto Vineyards, Francis was a branch manager with Wilbur-Ellis specializing in agronomy within Napa and Sonoma counties. Francis has been a California Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) for 21 years and a California Licensed Pest Control Advisor (PCA) for 28 years. He currently serves on the board of directors of the Northern California chapter of the California Association of Pest Control Advisors.