MARE ISLAND, Calif. (Nov. 5, 2026) — Redwood Empire Whiskey has named Kristina King its visitor experience and whiskey club manager, adding a hospitality and membership executive as it expands programming at its Mare Island distillery.
King will oversee consumer and trade experiences, including tours, tastings, member events and exclusive releases. The newly created position also includes managing the Redwood Empire Whiskey Club and developing its membership offerings.
She brings more than 20 years of experience in Northern California’s wine industry, with a background in membership development, direct-to-consumer sales and hospitality.
Most recently, King served as director of consumer sales and marketing at Kenefick Ranch Vineyard & Winery in Calistoga, where she led member and customer experiences and guided digital modernization.
Before that, she spent a decade as direct sales and wine club manager at Chateau Montelena. During her tenure, the club grew from approximately 1,100 members to more than 10,000.
Her appointment signals Redwood Empire’s emphasis on building relationships with consumers through visits, education and membership alongside its whiskey portfolio.
“Her experience in hospitality will be critical as we evolve and elevate our tasting room and distillery experience,” said Andrew Floor, vice president of marketing for Redwood Empire Whiskey.
At Mare Island, King will develop a calendar of tours, tastings, whiskey education and VIP experiences. Her responsibilities include welcoming trade partners, whiskey societies and visitors from the Bay Area and beyond.
She also will shape the whiskey club’s membership model, including exclusive releases, events and benefits. The club offers two membership options for consumers interested in engaging more closely with the brand.
The company said the position will help establish its distillery as a destination for existing fans and visitors beginning to explore whiskey.
Founded in 2015 by wine and spirits industry veteran Derek Benham, Redwood Empire sold more than 40,000 cases in 2025, according to the company. Its portfolio includes more than 16 whiskeys.
Among its offerings are Pipe Dream Bourbon, Emerald Giant Rye, Lost Monarch Small Batch Craft Whiskey Blend and Colonel Armstrong High Wheat Bourbon. Jeff Duckhorn serves as master distiller.
More information about membership is available through the Redwood Empire Whiskey Club.
About Redwood Empire Whiskey
Redwood Empire Whiskey is California’s No. 1 whiskey brand, crafting award-winning bourbons, ryes, and American whiskeys inspired by the spirit of the Golden State. Produced in Northern California and guided by a commitment to quality, innovation, and conservation, Redwood Empire combines grain-to-glass distillation, thoughtful sourcing, and expert blending to create approachable whiskeys with a distinct sense of place. For more information, visit RedwoodEmpireWhiskey.com or follow @redwoodempirewhiskey on Instagram and Facebook.
