MEET OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
Cole Pierce
Co-Owner, Wine Specialist & General Manager
Cole received his Master's of Science in Sports Administration at Eastern Illinois University, Cole Pierce decided he wanted to help his older brother Blake enrich their hometown in Mattoon, IL. Therefore, Cole went to school thru Washington State University, out on the West Coast, for three certificate programs; one in Viticulture (The Study of Growing of Grapevines), Enology (The Study of Making Wine), and Wine Business Management. The brothers knew the community needed a place with unique food, a beautiful atmosphere, great wine, space for events/weddings, and always something fun planned for the locals to enjoy as well! Cole wanted to provide Warren James Winery for his region as a relaxation destination that they could be proud of, in their own backyard! Cole resides in Mattoon, IL with his son Lincoln.
Blake Pierce
Co-Owner
Blake Pierce is the co-owner and older brother of Cole Pierce. A Mattoon native, he started his professional career in 2012 at Rural King, America’s Farm and Home Store, after earning his Bachelor’s in Finance and Master’s of Business Administration at Eastern Illinois University. Since that time, he has advanced through many roles and responsibilities assisting the company as they grew into the national retailer they are today. Currently, he leads the Real Estate and Development affiliated companies of Rural King, and assists Warren James Winery in his free time. Blake serves or has served on many board of directors in the area, including Emerald Acres Sports Connection, Coles Together, Elevate CCIC, Inc., Mattoon Chamber of Commerce, Eastern Illinois Alumni Association, Eastern Illinois School of Business Advisory Board, and the Lake Land College Foundation. Blake also enjoys volunteering for local projects, and serving as a regional advisor for the Sigma Chi Fraternity. He still resides in Mattoon with his wife, Megan, and their two sons.
Leon "Neon" Flood
Assistant Wine Specialist
“Neon” Leon Flood has been a wine hobbyist for 25 years. After inheriting his father’s recipe for wine, he started learning the craft in his garage. Over the decades, he has developed several delicious varieties, including our favorite Semi-Sweet Blackberry Wine. He also grows and harvests about 20 gallons of blackberries per year and uses local fruit to make other varieties such as apple, pear, peach, and cherry. Leon has known Cole most of his life and has been an integral part of Warren James Winery since the beginning. We are grateful that he has chosen to share his passion and skill for making wine with our family and customers.