Our Team

Scott Swaldo

GENERAL MANAGER

I joined the team in November of 2009 and am responsible for the oversight of all operations and development. After several career changes I feel like this was what I was meant to do. I love working at Gervasi because of the great people I get to work with everyday who are passionate about what they do and it allows me to be creative and focus my efforts on providing our customers a memorable experience, our employees an opportunity to grow and an enjoyable place to work. What makes the Gervasi experience amazing is our ability to make people feel like they have truly escaped or have been transported to somewhere very special.

Favorite GV Spot: The Piazza during a warm summer night at dusk, the gas lanterns lit, the music playing…the feeling is incredible.
Favorite GV Dish: Tuscan Beef Short Ribs
Favorite GV Wine: Truscano
Favorite Quote: “Staying the same is falling behind.”

Jeff Hicks

BRAND MANAGER

I joined the Gervasi team in December of 2009. I manage all of our social media outlets and interact with Gervasi’s on-line community. I am also responsible for monitoring and responding to on-line reviews of Gervasi. I enjoy chatting with Gervasi’s customers and learning more about their experiences here as well as their suggestions. I feel a huge sense of responsibility to promote and advertise Gervasi Vineyard™ and to protect our brand by using social media. I never want our on-line interactions to lose their personal touch!

Favorite GV Spot: The Tavola Lunga, right in front of the big picture windows in the Bistro. I like to sit with my back to the window and watch our customers come and go. Nothing makes me happier than our guests’ smiles!
Favorite GV Dish: Tuscan Beef Short Ribs
Favorite GV Wine: Primitivo! I love the big, bold reds in the winter months but in the summer I drink Lucello. 
Favorite Quote: “You are only as good as the people on your team.” -Ted Swaldo

Tom Blackerby

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Gretchen Wendell

DIRECTOR OF RESTAURANT AND EVENT OPERATIONS 

I joined the Gervasi team in January of 2010, working in a variety of roles on Gervasi’s main property and at The Twisted Olive™ (sister location). I currently am responsible for all Food and Beverage outlets to ensure our guests have the best quality dining experience we can offer. After working in a variety of upscale hospitality venues it became apparent to me that this family business is very different from the norm, of the sometimes grueling hospitality industry. The continual push to be our best, surpass previous goals, and exceed guests expectations is THE norm here. Words cannot express how fulfilling it is to know I work with a team that shares the same core values. It is easy to feel amazed when you step foot on our property, but beauty is not enough to continue to amaze our repeat guests. Our exceptional staff is what makes this destination truly one of a kind.

Favorite GV Spot: The round table right in front of the fireplace in the Bistro on a snowy winter night
Favorite GV Dish: House Made Gnocchi
Favorite GV Wine: The Abbraccio, our Cabernet is my favorite. It is full bodied red, the perfect thing to relax with after a long but enjoyable day.
Favorite Quote: “It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” -Ernest Hemingway

Susan Monteleone

DIRECTOR OF HOTEL AND RESORT  OPERATIONS

I joined the team in February of 2010. It is my responsibility to ensure all guests visiting the Gervasi Vineyard™ experience all we have to offer, and for guests to walk away wanting to schedule a return visit. I love working here because even though we have separate venues and separate buildings, we work as one team. Our ability to transport our guests to a place and time that allows them to enjoy old world class and an overwhelming sense of style makes the Gervasi experience amazing.

Favorite GV Spot: Sharing food and wine at the Tavola. It’s great to begin an evening with a few old friends and to walk away with a few new ones.
Favorite GV Dish: Artisan Piatti
Favorite GV Wine: Piove
Favorite Quote: “Life isn’t measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”

Frank Nigaglioni

HOTEL SERVICES MANAGER

I joined the team in July of 2014, and am currently responsible for managing the daily functions of the Villa Operations. My first memory of Gervasi Vineyard™ was sitting in The Crush House and thinking to myself, “Wouldn’t this be a fantastic place to work!” Fast forward several years later, and I can honestly say that thought was so spot on and then some. I am one of those lucky few who can say “I love my job!” From the friendly guest interactions, the camaraderie and the professionalism of my peers, to the picturesque beauty of the Vineyard, I am so honored and fortunate to be a member of the Gervasi Vineyard™ family. What truly makes my day is when I hear feedback from guests about what a fabulous time they had staying at Gervasi and how much they are looking forward to a return visit! Our team and I take great pride in exceeding our guest’s expectations and making their experience a memorable one. Gervasi Vineyard™ is about celebrating life. We have delicious food and award winning wines, but what truly makes the “Gervasi Experience” amazing are our dedicated and professional staff as well as the serene and picturesque beauty of the Vineyard.

Favorite GV Spot: Anywhere with a view of the lake. The beauty of the lake with the swans and the weeping willows, flanked by the elegant Tuscan architecture of the Villas and the Pavilion evoke a sense of serenity that you can cherish for a lifetime.
Favorite GV Dish: My favorite Gervasi menu item is the “Chef Special.” Our fantastic culinary team does a marvelous job of coming up with fresh new entrees using local seasonal ingredients.
Favorite GV Wine: I recommend our award winning Abbraccio (Cabernet Sauvignon) with a good steak. For something semi-sweet, I recommend our Lambrusco paired with some chocolate covered strawberries. Everybody has a different palate for wine so I always recommend doing a tasting at one of our elegant restaurants to see which one of our many wines you prefer. 
Favorite Quote: “Excellence can only be achieved when we push ourselves to our maximum potential.”

Gay Yager

ACCOUNTING MANAGER

I joined the team in August of 2010 and am responsible for financial reporting, reconciliations, receivables, payables and payroll. Some of my greatest talents are my attention to detail, process improvement and a passion for what I do. Gervasi is breathtakingly beautiful and the people are wonderful here. What makes the experience here so amazing is the views, the appointments and the service.

Favorite GV Spot: My office and The Villa Grande
Favorite GV Dish: Tuscan Beef Short Ribs
Favorite Quote: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”

Stephanie Vankirk

EVENT SALES MANAGER

I joined the team in May 2016 and am responsible for helping guide businesses and guests in finding the perfect event venue at Gervasi Vineyard™ and the Twisted Olive™ to exceed their expectations. I love working for a company that prides itself on family values and building long lasting relationships with its staff and guests alike. One of the best parts about what I do, is I get to work with a great team of co-workers, all with the same goal in mind of creating and executing exceptional service for every single guest. Gervasi Vineyard™ Destinations is truly special because of the atmosphere that surrounds you when you visit any of our venues.

Favorite GV Spot: Standing in the middle of a social event inside the Ballaria Sophia or Conservatory, seeing people truly enjoy themselves with the experience we can provide.
Favorite GV Dish: The Crab Cakes at The Twisted Olive
Favorite GV Wine: ZinZin
Favorite Quote: “The most wasted of all days is one without laughter” -E.E. Cummings

Pam Royer

EVENT SALES SPECIALIST

I came here as an Event Server in the Spring of 2018 and had a fantastic time with each and every event.  It is truly an honor to work with such a fun, lively and talented group.  This is a far cry from my professional financial career of 40 years but it is wonderful to have combined my love of great food, great wine, wonderful people and “work” at a place that makes everyone happy.  What a joy! Finding the right solution for our guests is extremely satisfying.  This is such a happy place to be ~ it is an honor to be part of such a great team!

Favorite GV Spot: The Pavilion at night with a wedding in full swing
Favorite GV Dish: Catherine’s mashed potatoes
Favorite GV Wine: I am a bubbles girl so Processco would be my choice any day . . . every day!
Favorite Quote: “Raise your words, not your voice.  It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.”  Rumi

Kendyll Bartram

EVENT COORDINATOR AND TEAM MANAGER

I joined the team in April 2012 as an Event Server and am now coordinating and executing private events as an Event Coordinator. Not only do I love what I do, I love the people I work with. They make every day at “work” a blast! Our employees are so dedicated. They come to work every day with such a great attitude. They are always happy to help both our guests and each other. It creates a great atmosphere for anyone lucky enough to spend their time here.

Favorite GV Spot: In the Pavilion right before the guests arrive, when the venue is set and ready for another beautiful event! It is a calming sense of pride to see what our team has accomplished
Favorite GV Dish: Vegetariano Piada at the Crush House®
Favorite GV Wine: Truscano – smooth blend, way too easy to drink!
Favorite Quote: “You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

Stacey Kunkle

EVENT SERVICES MANAGER

I joined the team in May of 2012 and assist guests in planning and executing their dream event. I love working here because of the teamwork. The beautiful scenery, wonderful food and wine and the amazing atmosphere make Gervasi an amazing experience for guests and staff.

Favorite GV Spot: Standing in the Pavilion looking out across the Lake
Favorite GV Dish: Chicken Piccata with Lemon Caper Sauce
Favorite GV Wine: Abbraccio
Favorite Quote: “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only turns on the light” -Albus Dumbledore

Kristine Lamiell

EVENT COORDINATOR

I joined the Gervasi team in May 2017 as an Event Intern and I am now an Event Coordinator. What I love most about my job is seeing everything, (including all the tiny details) come together on event days. The planning process can take months and it is always fun to see a couple’s vision come to life on their special day! I enjoy working at Gervasi because of its beautiful atmosphere, amazing food, and my coworkers! We all work well as a team and I learn something new every day.

Favorite GV Spot: The Still House has a cool and unique atmosphere!
Favorite GV Dish: Smashed Panini from the Piazza
Favorite GV Wine:  Passione
Favorite Quote: “Supporting another’s success won’t ever dampen yours.”

Brit Stenger

EVENT COORDINATOR

I joined the team in May 2019 as an Event Coordinator, assisting guests in planning their dream event. What I love most about my job is creating a memorable experience, not only for our clients, but for their family and friends, as well! I enjoy working at Gervasi because of the exquisite scenery, wonderful food and wine, and the level of respect our staff shows each other and our guests!

Favorite GV Spot: The Conservatory is such a magical and unique space, while providing an intimate experience.
Favorite GV Dish: Beef Gnocchi from The Crush House
Favorite GV Wine:  Abbraccio
Favorite Quote: “Don’t downgrade your dream just to fit your reality, upgrade your conviction to match your destiny”.

Jerry Risner

EXECUTIVE CHEF

I joined the team in November of 2009 and oversee all food productions on the property. One of my greatest talents is a willingness to learn. There is always something new to look forward to and Gervasi. The people here makes the Gervasi experience amazing.

Favorite GV Spot: The Orchard
Favorite GV Dish: Any of our homemade pasta dishes
Favorite GV Wine: Truscano

Ryan Bowen

BANQUET CHEF

I joined the team in January of 2010. I am responsible for preparing all the food for weddings, corporate and other special events at Gervasi, as well as any off-site events. What I love most about working here is the people I get to work with each day, the new challenges and the opportunities they provide that allow me to continue learning. The level of teamwork and working relationship between the entire event staff is great. Everyone does whatever is needed to ensure that every wedding and special event will meet or exceed the expectations of the guests.

Favorite GV Spot: The path leading from the Pavilion to the Villa Grande on a busy night
Favorite GV Dish: Any of the soups from the Bistro menus, especially the Corn Soup in the summer
Favorite GV Wine: Primitivo and Bellina
Favorite Quote: “”When you acknowledge, as you must, that there is no such thing as perfect food, only the idea of it, then the real purpose of striving toward perfection becomes clear: to make people happy, that is what cooking is all about”

Scott Owens

CHEF DE CUISINE AT THE BISTRO

I joined the Gervasi team in the spring of 2010. I am tasked with managing The Bistro kitchen and staff. During my time with Gervasi I have learned much and grown as a chef.  Whether it be by fresh local ingredients, or creatively thought out dinner features,  my ultimate goal is to exceed the expectations of every guest that walks through our doors to dine with us.

Favorite GV Spot: The Bistro Kitchen before anyone else gets here.  It is nice to be in a kitchen by yourself with your own thoughts and creativity.
Favorite GV Dish:  Our House Made Perogies
Favorite GV Wine:  Piove
Favorite Quote: “Recipes are important but only to a point. What’s more important than recipes is how we think about food, and a good cookbook should open up a new way of doing just that.” Chef Michael Symon

Bill Slosser

BISTRO & PIAZZA OPERATIONS MANAGER

Brad Preston

WINE STEWARD & BISTRO EVENT COORDINATOR

I joined the Gervasi team in October of 2012, working as a server in The Bistro. My role at The Twisted Olive™ is the point of contact after you book your special event with us! Together we will make certain that your event will not only be special but extraordinary as well. I wanted to be the wine steward because of the passion that I have for wine, the process of making wine, and of course Gervasi. I am looking forward to working with the winery team to further my education and then passing that education on to not only employees but guests as well. To be a part of a team that not only strives for excellence and growth but makes you feel part of the family, is indescribable. The level of professionalism and standards set are everything that I love about the GV Destination venues. From top to bottom both properties nail the definition of what a perfect experience is. The landscape, the food, the service, and most certainly the wine, come together to create Gervasi Destinations.

Favorite GV Dish: The Twisted Olive™ Seared Sea Scallops with Red Pepper Jam and Fresh Basil Cream.
Favorite GV Wine: I appreciate ALL wine, but of course I do have some favorites! The Malvasia Bianca is my favorite white because I love the perfect blend of the floral and citrus notes. The Abbraccio is such a wonderful cabernet with a nice round finish. 
Favorite Quote: “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great” -Zig Ziglar

Kristen Dewitt

BISTRO EVENT COORDINATOR

I joined the GV team in April of 2015 and I organize as well as execute private events at the Bistro to ensure a memorable customer experience for our guests. I love working here because of the fact that we are fundamentally based upon providing an excellent guest experience. I’m fortunate enough to be able to work at such a beautiful property and share and create these memorable moments with each and every guest I come in contact with. What makes the Gervasi Experience so amazing for others is that we are able to provide something very unique from the moment the guest steps on to our property until the very moment they leave. It’s a retreat, whether it’s for the weekend, for a relaxing dinner or a casual lunch, the entire experience transports you to another place. Completely surrounded by its immediate beauty, the fantastic food, great wine and some of the most passionate staff in the hospitality industry, makes it an experience that will stay with you when you leave.

Favorite GV Spot: My favorite spot at Gervasi is the Bistro. I love the essence of always celebrating a special occasion and the relaxed pace the night has to offer. Of course, the food and wine too!
Favorite GV Dish: The Artisan Piatti at the Bistro. A selection of imported Italian meats and cheeses, this is great as an appetizer or as a dessert. Its versatility lets it pair well with almost any wine on the menu.
Favorite GV Wine: My favorite wine is our Amarone. The complexity of this wine delivers subtle hints of dark cherries laced with black licorice yet still provides a nice nuance of oak from the wine aging in the barrel. The elusive long silky finish is the absolute best part about enjoying this wine.
Favorite Quote: “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” -Mark Twain

Dacie Palmer

THE CRUSH HOUSE OPERATIONS MANAGER

I started at Gervasi in 2018. I have had many different roles, in many different venues, but have landed in my favorite place on property. Every day you drive to work and go under the iron entry, you are taken away from the everyday hustle and transplanted into a place of peace and tranquility. To be able to make memories with many people a day and to do it beside people that enjoy doing the same is an amazing feeling.

Favorite GV Spot: Crush House
Favorite GV Dish: Garden Orzo
Favorite GV Wine: Dolce Sera
Favorite Quote: “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” – Christopher Robin

Christina Simons

THE CRUSH HOUSE SUPPORT MANAGER

John Lilley

STILL HOUSE OPERATIONS MANAGER

I started in food service at 16 years old. I have been in many different environments from catering, short order, casual dining, cafeteria, corporate and family owned. I have 15 years of kitchen experience and 10 years of service experience. I spent the last four years as GM of a full service restaurant with a music venue attached. I am new to Gervasi but fell in love with it instantly because of the beautiful scenery, great food, and impressive venues across the entire property.

Favorite GV Spot: The Piazza
Favorite GV Wine: Piove
Favorite Quote: Calm leads calm

Andrew Codispoti

DIRECTOR OF WINEMAKING AND DISTILLING OPERATIONS

I joined the team in February 2009 and am privileged to design our wines, oversee winery development, production and inventory as well as manage the wine portfolio strategy. I find satisfaction integrating the romance of wine with the principles of organization, process control, writing and teaching. The irresistible opportunity to exercise passion and creativity in a rewarding environment in addition to interaction with our guests and the community makes my job the best in town. The overall attention to excellence and the regard for those who create and those who come to appreciate the Gervasi Experience makes a compelling environment.

Favorite GV Spot: Spending warm summer evenings on the Piazza sharing food and wine with family and friends completes my enjoyment of our fabulous operation.
Favorite GV Dish: While I love all of our food, I can’t resist the pizzas.
Favorite GV Wine: The one I am drinking at the moment.
Favorite Quote: “”Lucidare le scarpe” – Remember to shine the shoes” ~ Vincenzo Salvatore Codispoti

Shae Pridemore

HEAD DISTILLER

I started at Gervasi in February of 2020 and run the day to day operations at the distillery. From lab analysis, product development, constant quality control and a drive to be on the cutting edge with new techniques to keep Gervasi standards above the rest. I have a long heritage of winemakers, brewers and distillers that run in my family and it’s this heritage that I am excited to bring to Gervasi.

Favorite GV Spot: In the early morning as the sun is rising and the deer are grazing amongst the vines.
Favorite GV Dish: The famous Cannoli we have at The Still House
Favorite GV Wine: Passione
Favorite GV Spirit: Rum Barrel Bourbon
Favorite Quote: “I would rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world.” George Washington

David Smith

WINERY MANAGER

I joined the team in December 2011 and coordinate with the winemaking team to ensure quality control throughout the winemaking process, manage the laboratory and perform all necessary analyses, maintain bottling equipment and oversee bottling operations, as well as aid the Winemaker with blending trials and sensory evaluations. Gervasi promotes a positive working environment with an emphasis on quality. As part of the winemaking team I feel this facilitates my desire to craft exceptional wines. I find Gervasi to be an immersive experience. Once you drive through the iron arch beautiful scenery gives a sense of leaving your routine behind. You can focus on the moment at hand and enjoy the friends you came with.

Favorite GV Spot: The bridge over the spillway on a cool autumn morning as the mist rises from the lake.
Favorite GV Dish: I love the Bianco Pizza, the flavors are always exceptional.
Favorite GV Wine: I think if I had a favorite it would make all the other wines we produce jealous. However, I do particularly enjoy making, and drinking, Bellina. The barrels literally sing during fermentation, and I find it fascinating how the wine matures and changes during the sur lie aging.
Favorite Quote: “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed” ~ Response in preparation for receiving Holy Eucharist, derived from Mathew 8:8