Meet the Winemakers

marnelle durrett winemaker

Growing up immersed in agriculture, Marnelle developed a love for the finer things the land had to offer. After her apprenticeship at Trefethen Vineyards in Napa Valley, Marnelle now shares her knowledge and dreams with East Texas. 

Due to the unique climatic conditions in East Texas, Marnelle marries the Old World style of winemaking with her Californian background to create the first class cellar selections of Kiepersol wines.

Marnelle Durrett
Owner & Founding Winemaker

Michelle is the Winemaker and creative force behind Kiepersol's exquisite wines. With a talent for crafting award-winning, approachable wines, Michelle joined our team in 2022, returning to East Texas to be closer to her family.

Her wine journey began in the Texas Hill Country, where she honed her skills under the mentorship of Sergio Cuadra at Fall Creek Winery in Tow, Texas. Michelle's passion for the science and art of winemaking was nurtured by the visionary pioneers of the Hill Country wine industry, Susan Auler and the late Ed Auler. Her family noticed her drive too, seeing her enthusiasm for crafting wine truly light her up. 

Michelle Snider, Winemaker

Her favorite Kiepersol wine is Edelvit because of its finesse and delicate oak aging. When she’s not in the winery, you can find her tending her own farm and enjoying outdoor adventures with her daughter.