Our Winemaking team

In hand-crafting their wines, Matt and Maria Kluchenek work closely with the seasoned Mind's Eye® winemaking team of Kian Tavakoli and Michael Zitzlaff, who provide unparalleled stewardship in the development of Mind’s Eye’s wines.

Kian Tavakoli, who has more than 12 years of premium winemaking experience, brings not only a stellar combination of sensory and production skills to Mind’s Eye Winery, but the passion to make ultra-premium wines that surpass expectations.  Kian previously served as the winemaker of Clos Du Val’s red wines, including the winery’s highly-acclaimed reserve bottling. Prior to joining Clos Du Val, Kian worked for several years at Opus One.  He has degrees in viticulture and genetics from the University of California at Davis. We are extremely pleased to have the talents of Kian in producing wines that strive for perfection.

In addition to Kian, Michael Zitzlaff provides winemaking expertise to Mind’s Eye. Mike has more than 20 years of winemaking experience and has been recognized internationally with various awards, including the Warren Winiarski Stag’s Leap Trophy for Best Cabernet Sauvignon of Show, the Wolf Blass Trophy for Best Australian Red Wine of Show at London’s International Wine and Spirit Competition, and the award for Best New World Pinot Noir at the International Wine Challenge in London. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Oenology from Australia’s famed Roseworthy Agricultural College.