Leading the charge
Damon J. Franzia
Managing Director
Damon J. Franzia serves as the Managing Director of Classic Wines of California, where he oversees the company’s operations. Currently, he sits on the California Grocers Association Board and is a member of the Stanislaus County Presidents Club.
He began his career participating in the Walmart Management Program from 1995-1999 before joining his father, Joseph S. Franzia, as a Southern California Area Manager.
Damon holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Santa Clara University and has earned a WSET II accreditation.
President
Joseph S. Franzia is the President of Classic Wines of California. In 1974 Joseph founded the company alongside his brother, Fred T. Franzia, and his cousin, John Franzia, and assumed the role of President from its inception.
Joseph holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and MBA from Santa Clara University and a WSET II accreditation. After graduating from university, he enlisted and served as a Captain in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, where Joseph was awarded a Bronze Star and received three purple hearts.
Joseph’s career in the wine industry spans over 65 years. He has served on various boards throughout his career, most notably the Wine Institute of America, and is currently a member of the Stanislaus County Presidents Club.
EXECUTIVE TEAM
Brian Pohl
General Sales Manager
Brian Pohl joined Classic Wines of California in 2019 and currently serves as General Sales Manager. Brian is responsible for overseeing 125 managers, sales associates, and merchandisers. He develops plans and provides strategic direction to deliver business goals for customers, supplier partners, and Classic Wines of California.
Before joining Classic Wines of California, Brian held positions at Young’s Market Company as Senior Vice President, Sales &Merchandising, Coca-Cola as Vice President, National Sales, and Mars, Inc. with roles in National Sales & Category Management.
Brian was born and raised in central Ohio, has lived in Idaho and Texas, and moved to California in 2007. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from the University of California, San Diego, and an MBA from USC Marshall School of Business.
