Meet Austin Culver - International Barrel, Oak & Tank Consultant for Bouchard Cooperages

Bouchard Cooperages, a leading representative of premium oak solutions for the wine, spirits, and beer industries, as well as non-oak vessels for aging and fermentation, is pleased to announce the appointment of Austin Culver as International Barrel, Oak and Tank Consultant, working exclusively with winemakers in Washington State, British Columbia, the Columbia Gorge of Oregon and Idaho. An accomplished winemaker with more than 15 years of hands-on experience across nearly every major West Coast wine region, Culver brings a rare blend of technical production expertise and relationship-driven sales acumen to the role. He will collaborate closely with winemaking clients on barrel and tank selection, fermentation strategy, and long-term cellar planning.

Based in White Salmon, Washington, Culver is the owner and winemaker of CLYZM Wines sourcing fruit from vineyards throughout the Columbia Gorge and Eastern Washington. His career includes leadership roles in wine production and cellar management at wineries in Washington, Paso Robles, Oregon and New Zealand. In addition to building his own brand and tasting room, Culver has developed a reputation as a highly personable communicator and taster with a deep appreciation for the people behind the wines.

Culver will be working alongside Gerhard Ziemer, who has long served the region and will continue to collaborate closely with clients during the 2026 season to ensure continuity and a seamless transition. With Culver’s appointment, Bouchard Cooperages reinforces its long-term commitment to Washington, British Columbia, the Columbia Gorge and Idaho offering winemakers expanded technical support backed by real-world cellar experience and a shared passion for quality.