David Newitt is a dedicated member of the Slate team, bringing his wealth of experience to the world of winemaking since 2018. His journey within the Slate family has seen him contribute significantly to 1851 Vineyards, then the Slate Mill Wine Collective, and currently, Slate Theory Winery.


Before joining Slate, David's path was marked by a remarkable transition. After concluding a distinguished 32-year career in the corporate realm of marketing and advertising, he redirected his focus towards the Texas wine industry. David embarked on an entrepreneurial venture, establishing a mobile bottling service with a keen emphasis on serving small boutique wineries in the Lone Star State.


David's deep-rooted passion for wine led him to further pursuits, including the cultivation of his own vineyard in Mason County. His dedication to the craft extended to his academic journey, culminating in the attainment of a winemaking certificate from Texas Tech University.


A true connoisseur, David Newitt's palate is graced by an appreciation for Left Bank Bordeaux and Italian varietals. His winemaking philosophy mirrors his reverence for the intricacies of the Texas terroir, utilizing a harmonious blend of new French oak and neutral oak to reveal the unique character of Texas-grown grapes.

David Newitt

Winemaker

Tyler Wolz is a seasoned professional in the world of winemaking, bringing his expertise to the Slate team since early 2020. He played an instrumental role in laying the foundation for the wine program at Slate Theory, originally within the Slate Mill Wine Collective, before ushering in a new era when Slate Theory opened its doors to the public in November 2021.

Prior to his tenure at Slate, Tyler embarked on his winemaking journey in 2013 within the picturesque landscapes of the Texas Hill Country, starting at William Chris Vineyards. His dedication and passion for the craft were evident as he began as a cellar hand, steadily advancing to the position of assistant winemaker.

Tyler's unwavering commitment in the winery is centered around the pursuit of crafting wines of the highest quality. He finds joy in the delicate interplay of chemistry and artistry that defines the winemaking process. With a discerning palate, Tyler's personal affinity leans towards wines characterized by their depth, boldness, and rich complexity. Among his favorites are varietals such as Petite Sirah, Alicante Bouschet, and Souzao.

As an integral part of the Slate team, Tyler Wolz continues to be a driving force in the creation of exceptional wines, consistently pushing the boundaries of the winemaking craft while embracing the artistic elements that make it truly exceptional.

Tyler Wolz

In 2018, seven siblings and their parents acquired the old Torre di Pietra Winery property in Fredericksburg, Texas, with a vision: to challenge convention and craft wines as layered and complex as the human mind. From that idea, Slate Theory Winery was born.

Inspired by philosopher John Locke’s “Blank Slate Theory”, the belief that we are born without preconceptions, the Jones family entered the wine world with no prior experience. It was all in their heads—fueling the brand’s signature motto: Fill Your Head.

Today, Slate Theory Winery brings that vision to life in the heart of Texas Wine Country. Guests are invited to explore our immersive tasting experiences, including an underground wine cave, a striking new 8,500-square-foot tasting room, a state-of-the-art production facility, and an exclusive members-only lounge.

Slate Theory Winery + Vineyards

Texas, United States

Winemakers

David Newitt

Winemaker

Tyler Wolz

Winemaker