Oliver, B.C.—Phantom Creek Estates hired Olivier Humbrecht, Master of Wine, as its new winemaking consultant. Humbrecht is France’s first Master of Wine and the owner and winemaker of Domaine Zind-Humbrecht in the Alsace region of France.

According to a statement released by the winery, Phantom Creek is expanding its portfolio to include Pinot Gris and Riesling, and Humbrecht is expected to be instrumental in helping to select and develop vineyard sites that have the potential for excellence. Humbrecht will work closely with winemaker Ross Wise at Phantom Creek's new winery, which features an Alsatian inspired foudre room and was designed with Humbrecht’s input.

Humbrecht will also guide Phantom Creek’s transition to organic and biodynamic farming practices. The winery’s 67 acres of estate vineyards on the Black Sage Bench have been farmed according to organic practices since 2017.