DAMA Wines is a testament to the creativity and expertise of women in the wine industry. Our team, comprised of talented and passionate individuals, brings a unique perspective to every stage of winemaking. From the vineyards to the bottle, we infuse each wine with artistry and a touch of magic. Experience the DAMA difference today – wines that tell a unique story, crafted by women with a passion for excellence
+
+
+
+
+
Judith Shulman, Owner & Manager
Judith always chose the road less traveled. Looking back, she only paid attention to the shoulder fairy who said “Forget the risk. Go for it!” Growing up in the City of Chicago she became street-wise with few expectations and imagined she would be an artist someday. Self-supporting at a young age, she honed her business skills and obtained her degree in Psychology working full time in a Chicago law firm as an accountant. Then came Yale Law School thanks to a generous grant program, and when the time came to get back to work, she selected Seattle on a map. With the primary goals of family, friends and independence, she became one of the first female tax and business lawyers in the City and became a partner in the law firm of Davis Wright. She remained attached to the world of art, and served for years on the Board of Seattle Shakespeare Company.
Listening once again to her annoying shoulder fairy, Judith left her comfortable life with 2 small children in tow to start her own company. The first years of her woman-owned business (a specialized real estate company of “landmen”) almost did her in, but after 17 years, she sold the national company to an international engineering company and moved to Walla Walla to drink wine and have fun. She bought 40 acres south of town and ventured into the world of wine, both drinking and learning. Always a fan of the wines crafted by Mary Derby, she became a partner in DAMA in 2009 . “Thank you, shoulder fairy.”
Judith now lives with Gracie and Henry, the DAMA winery dogs, surrounded by crops, sculptures, and spectacular views — potentially the future vineyard property for DAMA Estate Wines. She is devoted to the wine industry, a few remaining legal clients, her amazing family and friends, her work for non-profits, and always the arts.
Judith Shulman can be contacted at judith@damawines.com.
Mary Derby, Founder & Wine Creator
Hailing from Northern Minnesota, Mary Derby’s journey to winemaking is a unique blend of experiences in classical music and restaurant hospitality. Throughout the 1990s, she honed her skills in the vibrant culinary scenes of San Francisco and Chicago, building a rich foundation in food and wine.
In 2000, Mary and her husband, Devin Derby, embarked on a new adventure, moving to Walla Walla to establish the acclaimed Spring Valley Vineyard. Then in 2007, Mary founded DAMA as one of Washington’s first certified woman-owned and managed wineries. She has since created award-winning wines from some of the best vineyards in the Walla Walla and Yakima Valleys.
Mary’s approach to winemaking is deeply influenced by her background as a singer. She believes that while both disciplines are mathematical and require a strong technical base, it’s the artistry and personality that truly make a wine—or a performance—shine. She likens it to having a strong base that allows creativity to flow freely, preventing the wine from becoming one-dimensional.
Beyond DAMA, Mary is a respected leader in the Washington wine community. She served on the Wine Alliance Board for six years and continues to be an active member of its Marketing Committee. She also dedicated 15 years to coordinating the “Walla Walla 2 U” Wine Event, which showcased the region’s exceptional wineries, vineyards, and winemakers to wine buyers from across the country.
Mary Derby can be contacted at mary@damawines.com.
Jeff Hickenlooper, Manager/Wine Society Concierge
Jeff Hickenlooper is a wine industry maven with over two decades of experience in the wine industry. He has a passion for exceptional wines and unforgettable experiences. Originally from the Northeast and Midwest, Jeff has made Walla Walla his home for several years.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to combine my love of wine with marketing, logistics, and customer service. My journey began in fine dining, where I honed my skills as a sommelier and general manager at several esteemed restaurants.”
Jeff then transitioned into the wine industry, holding key roles at several wholesalers, importers, wineries, and organizations, including Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance, Revelry Vintners, and Cutting Edge Selections.
“Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the world and traveling to as many wine-making areas as possible to learn and taste the diversity of the wine universe. Now I am excited to join the iconic DAMA Team!”
Outside of work, Jeff enjoys playing music, exploring the PNW’s hidden gems with his wife of almost 30 years, daughter and her husband, and friends, and enjoying the sensational wines of Walla Walla.
Jeff Hickenlooper can be contacted at jeff@damawines.com.
Lori Mitchell, Private Event Sales & Creative Manager
Lori is a native of the Northwest suburbs of Chicago, IL. After experimenting with other locations across the country, Lori made her way to Walla Walla to further her wine education, including completing the Certified Specialist of Wine program through the Society of Wine Educators.
“My time as Tasting Room Manager at DAMA Wines taught me a great deal about creating a unique wine tasting experience and building a brand. For the past five years, I’ve applied those skills and channeled my creativity into a new focus: planning special events and developing marketing materials that share the DAMA story. Now in my tenth year with the company, I’m excited to continue using these skills to connect with our guests and grow the brand.”
Lori lives with her husband of 40 years, Dave Mitchell, and rescued dogs, Mingus (Charles Mingus) and Miles (Miles Davis). When not in the tasting room you can find her riding her horses, Mozart and Unico, cooking up something for friends, traveling and volunteering in the community, and of course drinking wine!
Lori Mitchell can be contacted at lori@damawines.com.
“Kat” Dykes, Tasting Room Host, Tasting Room Host
Kat will greet you with a smile and her knowledge of wine and the valley. If you have a question about the valley or wine, she will have an answer.
Stay in touch
We have a quarterly newsletter to help everyone stay connected. Sign up and keep up to date on upcoming wine releases and winery events. You don’t want to miss out!