In his spare time, he invented the first wine cooler for Seagrams and Gallo’s Hearty Burgundy. Say hello to Richard Peterson; a chemist, scientist and winemaker. But most importantly, Peterson was a revolutionary inventor. He invented systems that revolutionized #wine production, with his most noted invention the steel barrel pallet in 1975, a system that allowed wineries to stack barrels to the ceiling with a forklift, maximizing space and saving labor costs. Peterson’s 50-plus years in the wine industry was the basis for his book; The Winemaker. It’s a must read for any wine lover and perfect for the beach!
You could share a glass of wine with Dick Peterson and hear a story. But it wouldn’t be near enough wine to learn about the history making changes that Dick helped pioneer in the wine industry. You better get a bottle or two…..
Here are a few:
The original designer of the steel barrel pallet, which allows wine barrels to be handled mechanically instead of by hand.
Invented many wine techniques still in use today, such as ‘no topping, bung-and-roll,’ a practice for barrel aging red wines.
Created many successful new wines, including Lancers Vinho Branco in Portugal, the J. Wile line of varietal wines, Seagram’s first wine cooler, and all the original Monterey Vineyard and Taylor California Cellars varietal and generic table and sparkling wines.
Cheers to Dick and his contributions to the wine world!
About Jessica Altieri
Created and led the re-launch of Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach wine program, a Forbes Five Star Hotel Award designation, which included curating the wine program for the opening of Florie's, a partnership with the three-Michelin star Chef Mauro Colagreco.
Internationally trained and certified wine and water sommelier, wine entrepreneur, and innovator with over ten years of experience in the wine, food, and culture market industry. Wine Enthusiast Magazine “40 Under 40 Tastemaker” experienced in curating wine lists for top restaurants and resorts, creating unique tasting experiences worldwide, and managing beverage programs that drive product sales. Founder of Wine Channel TV and industry influencer with extensive digital media knowledge and deep relationships with global winemakers and vintners.
Altieri is a visionary for wine “edutainment;” engaging both novice wine drinkers and experienced enthusiasts around the world with fun, fresh and edgy content. In 2013, she published her first book “Kiss My Glass: Jess Altieri’s ‘NO-BS’ Wine Buying Guide” which is now available on Amazon and in select Walgreens stores.