Founder

Rachel Martin

Rachel Martin founded Oceano Wines in 2016, bringing a distinctly coastal, site-driven perspective to single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. In 2022, she founded Oceano Zero around a simple conviction: alcohol-removed wine should be made with the same rigor, provenance, and pleasure as fine wine.

After years producing traditional single-vineyard wines, Rachel understood that exceptional alcohol-removed wine had to begin in the vineyard. Oceano Zero was built around that idea—thoughtful sourcing, intentional winemaking, and a commitment to preserving varietal character, texture, and a true sense of place.

Rachel brings more than two decades of experience across wine production, grape growing, brand development, wholesale, hospitality, and education. Earlier in her career, she led her family’s vineyard and winery in Virginia and authored the successful petition establishing the Middleburg Virginia American Viticultural Area (AVA).

Her studies in wine sensory science at the University of Bordeaux and in enology and viticulture at Napa Valley College complement decades of hands-on experience in the industry.

Rachel is also Co-Founder and Author of AFNA Wine Certified^™, the first professional certification dedicated to alcohol-free and non-alcoholic wine.

Central to Rachel’s vision is choosing exceptional partners who bring distinct expertise to the brand, including winemaker Rob Fischer and Creative Director Cristina Ruales.

Through Oceano Zero, Rachel is helping redefine what alcohol-removed wine can be—bringing together fine-wine craftsmanship, coastal character, thoughtful collaboration, and a more considered way to drink.