Our People
The Life Behind the Name
William Adams
Winemaker
Bill initiated his winemaking journey in Ontario, sucessfully gradutaing from a three-year program at Niagara College. During his tenure at Palatine Hills Estate Winery, he had the privilege of working alongside esteemed veteran winemaker David Hojnoski, from whom he imbibed the art & science of winemaking. This enabled Bill to foster a deep appreciation for the craft and honing his winemaking expertise to perfection.
A visit to the Okanagan wine region in 2006 captivated Bill, leading to his enduring presence in the area. His tenure included valuable experience working with Pascal Madevon, a renowned classically French viticulturist & winemaker at Osoyoos LaRose. That experience had greatly influenced Bill’s winemaking philosophy and approach.
Bill joined the Stoneboat family following a year as a cellar master at Blue Mountain VIneyard & Cellars. His discerning approach to winemaking, coupled with his extensive experience with Pinot varieties, uniquely aligned with Stoneboat’s commitment to crafting quality and expressive wines.
Kyla, Rudy & Mackie
Our Founders
Kyla Richey – Embarking on a new chapter after a decade long athletic career, Kyla has chosen to venture into the dynamic world of entrepreneurship within the wine industry. Fueled by her passion for photography, marketing strategies and her dedication to crafting unforgettable moments.
Rudy Verhoeff – a retired Olympian has embarked on a new entrepreneurial journey alongside his wife. As Vice President, Rudy brings over a decade in fostering sucessful team dynamics. His expertise in hospitality is instrumental in shaping the culture and values here at Stoneboat, where he’s dedicated to cultivating strong teams and a sense of community.
Ian Scromeda
Executive Vice President
Ian has been connected to the Okanagan Valley since childhood, frequently visiting his grandparents’ farm from the age of five. In 2014, he embarked on his wine career by joining the esteemed Okanagan winery, Poplar Grove. Over the course of five years, Ian gained valuable experience across various departments, culminating in his role as Director of Operations.
In late 2019, Ian joined the team at Phantom Creek. one of British Columbia’s largest and most prestigious wineries as the Estate Director.
In 2021 Ian, along with his wife and two of their friends co-founded Joiryde winery; a prominent boutique winery in the District Wine Village. Subsequently, in 2022, Ian joined Stoneboat to overseeing all aspects of the business within the Okanagan Valley.
Andrew Young
General Manager
Hospitality has always been a big part of Andrews make up. Building connections along with providing exceptional guest service and satisfaction are some of his passions. This led Andrew to obtain a degree in Hospitality Management. Andrew’s career in hospitality started off in Vancouver where he worked with Fairmont and Delta Hotels. While developing his career as part of the Rooms Division, Andrew was presented with the opportunity to move into a Food and Beverage leadership role. Andrew was the lead trainer for multiple restaurant openings for Northland Properties.
During his time as restaurant General Manager Andrew dedicated himself into furthering his wine education and completed his WSET training up to level 3. Andrews’ love for wine stems from an early age. During childhood trips to the Okanagan, his uncle, a wine maker would take Andrew behind the scenes of the wine world. Andrew was presented with an exciting opportunity that led him to the Okanagan Valley and ultimately to working in the industry that he loves.
His time spent as the Guest Experience Manager at CheckMate Winery and Hospitality Manager at Phantom Creek Winery have been important steppingstones that have led him to his exciting new role as the General Manager Stoneboat Vineyards