Tanya Martin of Blasted Church Named One of Wine’s Most Inspiring People 2025

Tanya Martin of Blasted Church Vineyards

Named One of Wine’s Most Inspiring People 2025

Tanya Martin, Director of Operations at Blasted Church Vineyards in Okanagan Falls, British Columbia, Canada, has been recognized as one of Wine’s Most Inspiring People 2025 by the Wine Industry Advisor. This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals making significant contributions to the wine industry, with Martin honoured for her decades of behind-the-scenes dedication to elevating the BC wine industry.

Chosen from over 100 nominees, Martin joins a distinguished group of 10 honourees recognized for their profound impact on the wine world.

In a feature written by Kathleen Wilcox, Martin’s journey from a wine industry rookie to a trusted leader is celebrated, highlighting her ability to overcome challenges and adapt creatively to crises. Martin’s nearly 30-year career began serendipitously in 1994, and she has since held pivotal roles at See Ya Later Ranch, Hester Creek Estate Winery, and Blasted Church Vineyards, where she has been a guiding force since 2007. Known for her calm demeanor and problem-solving skills, Martin has shepherded Blasted Church through numerous challenges, including wildfires, frost, and shifts in the global wine market.

During the 2021 fire season, Martin and her team navigated the complexities of a smoke-affected vintage with transparency and care, ensuring consumer trust and loyalty. In 2024, when extreme frost decimated much of the local grape harvest, Martin and her team demonstrated remarkable resilience by sourcing high-quality fruit from Washington State, maintaining the winery’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to its employees.

“We are beyond proud to share this incredible news for our client,” says Leeann Froese, co-owner of Town Hall Brands, who submitted Martin’s nomination. “For three decades she has worked behind the scenes as one of the backbones of the BC wine industry, but because she is shy, she doesn’t get celebrated like she deserves. She has earned this recognition, and every accolade that comes her way!”

Martin expressed surprise and gratitude for the accolade. “It’s surreal to see my name alongside such inspiring individuals. I feel fortunate to work in an industry filled with passionate people and to lead a team that makes coming to work every day a joy,” she said. “This honour is as much about the people I work with as it is about me. I want to thank the ownership at Blasted Church, my team, and everyone who continues to support our story. Together, we’re building a brighter future for BC wine.”

Blasted Church Vineyards, renowned for its playful branding and award-winning wines, has gained a loyal following of wine enthusiasts worldwide. With Martin’s leadership, the winery is poised to continue thriving in an ever-evolving industry.

About Wine’s Most Inspiring People

The Wine Industry Advisor’s annual list celebrates individuals who inspire through innovation, resilience, and leadership. The full list of honourees is being unveiled over two weeks, with Martin’s story featured here.

About Blasted Church Vineyards

Located in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Blasted Church Vineyards is known for its premium wines and playful branding. For more than 20 years, the winery has amassed a loyal following of wine lovers who appreciate its unique approach to winemaking, commitment to quality, and ability to combine the serious business of producing high-quality wine with a fun approach to life and love of wine. Blasted Church Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery located in Okanagan Falls, British Columbia.

Media release and image (Tanya Martin – Director of Operations, Blasted Church Vineyards | Credit: BestEver.Studio) provided by Sierra Simpson, Town Hall Brands.