Temecula Valley Winegrowers Adds New Marketing, PR Director

TEMECULA, CA — The Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association (TVWA) has appointed Chaela Ciongoli as its new marketing director. According to a recent news release, she will be a key addition supporting the region’s ongoing efforts to grow visibility and awareness through focused brand storytelling and destination marketing.

TVWA Executive Director Krista Chaich spoke on the addition of their new Director of Marketing and Public Relations.

“Chaela brings a fresh energy as well as valuable perspective to this role,” Chaich said. “With her experience in the wine business and her proven track record in luxury wine marketing, she’ll be a key driver in helping us take Temecula Valley to the next phase in our growth story. We look forward to the contributions she’ll make as we continue building momentum for the region.”

Ciongoli most recently served as vice president of marketing at Kerr Cellars, where she helped shape brand marketing strategies for a luxury Napa Valley winery. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Viticulture and Enology from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, focusing on Wine Business and Marketing. She completed her Level 1 sommelier certification through the Court of Master Sommeliers in 2020.

Her hands-on experience includes working harvests in Napa, New Zealand, and Australia, managing a high-volume wine bar in Melbourne, Australia, and holding various marketing roles in Napa Valley before joining the Kerr Cellars team. Her career reflects a thoughtful balance of practical wine knowledge, business acumen, social media and influencer marketing, and a deep appreciation for storytelling's role in wine.

“Temecula Valley is a region on an upward trajectory-with deep roots, passionate people, award-winning wines, and a refreshing sense of originality,” said Ciongoli. “I’m honored to help shape the next chapter of its narrative and introduce even more wine lovers to everything this Southern California destination has to offer.”

In her new role, Ciongoli will focus on continuing to elevate the region’s brand presence, leading integrated marketing initiatives, and building out TVWA’s marketing team.

Additional hires are expected in the months ahead.

She will adhere to TVWA’s commitment to long-term success and strategic communication following the Wine & Agricultural Business Improvement District (BID) passage in 2021. This initiative has enabled significant investment in promoting Temecula Valley as a leading California wine destination.

To learn more about the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, visit https://www.temeculawines.org.