Montage Healdsburg appoints John Wielenberg as Hotel Manager
HEALDSBURG, CALIF. – Montage Healdsburg announce the appointment of John Wielenberg as hotel manager, overseeing daily operations for the resort's 258-acre retreat in Sonoma wine country. With more than 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality and a strong foundation in food and beverage operations, Wielenberg brings a collaborative leadership style and a deep commitment to service excellence.
Wielenberg joined Montage International in 2023 as hotel manager at Pendry West Hollywood, where he led key departments including rooms, security and Spa Pendry, while also supporting the success of the hotel's award-winning culinary concepts helmed by Chef Wolfgang Puck. Previously, he held leadership roles at renowned properties across the U.S. and Europe, including The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg, Half Moon Bay, and Los Angeles & JW Marriott L.A. LIVE, where he oversaw operations for 10 distinct dining venues. In 2020, Wielenberg played a pivotal role in steering The West Hollywood EDITION through the pandemic as executive assistant manager, setting new benchmarks in financial performance, guest satisfaction and employee engagement during a challenging time for the industry.
A native of Bösel, Germany, Wielenberg launched his hospitality career in a family-owned restaurant, where he gained early exposure to service and culinary excellence, laying the groundwork for impactful operational leadership.
Montage Healdsburg is located on 258-acres in the heart of California's world-renowned Sonoma wine country. Built within the constraints of the natural landscape, the transformative hideaway offers 130 bungalow-style guest rooms and suites and 40 privately owned Montage Residences settled among oak trees and vine-covered hills with a contemporary aesthetic. The resort features three dining outlets including signature restaurant, Hazel Hill; an 11,500-sq. ft. Spa Montage with zero-edge pool overlooking the resort's own 15.5 acres of vineyards; and Montage's signature children's program, Paintbox. Montage Healdsburg is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts' worldwide collection.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Travel Daily News
13-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
Paso Robles Inn welcomes Chef Michael Freeman as Culinary Director
Paso Robles Inn appoints Chef Michael Freeman as Culinary Director, launching a bold new culinary era focused on local sourcing and seasonal innovation. PASO ROBLES, CA – Paso Robles Inn, a historic downtown landmark and icon of Paso Robles, announce the appointment of Chef Michael Freeman as Culinary Director. His arrival signals a transformative moment for both Paso Robles Inn and its sister property, The Piccolo, as the final step before sweeping culinary updates and a new chapter in hospitality excellence. 'Chef Freeman represents the future of dining at Paso Robles Inn and The Piccolo. His passion for local sourcing, combined with his roots in classical technique and his ability to lead with both creativity and precision, makes him the ideal partner as we reimagine what these properties can offer. We're at the beginning of an exciting journey – one that will unfold in the seasons ahead—but I have no doubt Chef Freeman will set the tone for the new Paso Robles culinary story to come,' says Chef Charlie Palmer. With over two decades of experience in fine dining, banquet operations, and hospitality leadership, Chef Freeman brings a thoughtful and seasoned approach to his new role at the Paso Robles Inn. Most recently, he served as Executive Chef for Charlie Palmer Steak DC. Prior to that, he led culinary teams at The Morrow Hotel and The LINE Hotel in Washington, D.C., as well as Eaton DC, where the hotel's signature restaurant, American Son, retained its Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction under his direction. Earlier in his career, Freeman honed his craft at Chef Charlie Palmer's Michelin-starred Aureole, laying the foundation for his refined, ingredient-driven style. 'We're not just changing menus – we're redefining what it means to dine in Paso Robles,' said Chef Freeman. 'This region has an incredible story to tell through its ingredients, its people, and its traditions. My goal is to craft an experience that's rooted in the land but reaching for something entirely new. This place feels like home in all the best ways. I want guests to feel the spirit of Paso Robles' warm hospitality, incredible products, and a real sense of pride in the land in every dish.' A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Orlando, Chef Freeman blends classical French technique with a modern American sensibility. He is known for building high-performing culinary teams, championing local ingredients, and crafting menus that are both innovative and approachable. 'At the Paso Robles Inn, our focus has always been on creating a warm, memorable experience that reflects the character and charm of this community,' said Erica Fryburger, General Manager of Paso Robles Inn. 'As we evolve, these new culinary offerings will not only deepen our commitment to hospitality but also help shape the Inn and Paso Robles into an epicurean destination – one that enhances every part of the guest experience.' A fresh taste of Paso: Seasonal menus and local sourcing Since joining, Chef Freeman has already begun rolling out new dishes that lean into Paso's agricultural bounty with a bold, meat-forward focus, positioning Paso Robles Inn as one of the only dining destinations in the region boasting a custom dry-aging program in partnership with Allen Brothers. Standouts include a 21-day dry-aged ribeye, prime rib carved in-house, and tri-tip steak frites – a nod to regional traditions. The new bar menu at Cattlemen's Lounge features dishes like Beef Tips with blistered fresno chili, and Chorizo Tots with smoky paprika aioli, offering a hearty, elevated take on local favorites. Additional menu highlights include: A weekly local cattle feature Morro Bay oysters and rotating seafood specials Locally grown mushrooms from Mighty Cap Produce from Seed in a Bucket, Aviation Farms and Sierra Honey Farms Menus can be viewed at along with hours of operation and reservations. Chef Freeman also encourages guests to look for daily specials featuring off-menu items sourced from his evolving roster of farmers, fishers, and ranchers. Additional new lunch and dinner dishes, along with a brand new brunch program will launch later this summer. A new standard for events and banquets In addition to daily dining, Freeman is reinventing banquet service at both properties. The soon-to-launch banquet menu reflects his seasonal, locally sourced ethos, with customizable packages that deliver restaurant-level quality at scale. Guests can expect refined presentations, layered flavor profiles, and thoughtful nods to Central Coast cuisine, whether booking a small wedding or a large corporate retreat. Freeman also leads internal chef training and kitchen culture-building efforts across both hotels, focusing on culinary excellence, respect for the craft and hospitality-driven service. Looking ahead: Charlie Palmer Collective arrives 2025–2026 Upon completion of major renovations in late 2025 and early 2026, the Charlie Palmer Collective will operate all food and beverage outlets at Paso Robles Inn and The Piccolo, including in-room dining and catering. Until then, Chef Freeman's leadership ensures continuity, creativity, and excellence while also helping shape the future vision. He will remain a key part of the culinary leadership team during and beyond the transition. This moment presents an incredible opportunity to join a passionate and growing culinary team. Paso Robles Inn is actively hiring for both front and back-of-house roles as it builds a culture of excellence and creativity in the heart of wine country. Peregrine Hospitality was launched in 2024 as a rebrand of KSL Resorts. Peregrine Hospitality offers a complete range of services, including hotel/resort management, development/project management, and global sales support, from asset management to advisory support. Today, it has 92 properties under direct management, asset management, or participating in the organization's global sales program in markets across the U.S., Fiji, the Maldives, Mauritius and Thailand. The portfolio includes distinctive resorts, boutique hotels, and select-service hotels with a wide range of amenities, including spa, golf, tennis and ski, and food and beverage operations.
Travel Daily News
13-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
Montage Laguna Beach appoints Victorio Gonzalez as Managing Director
Montage Laguna Beach appoints Victorio Gonzalez as Managing Director, bringing 22 years of leadership experience within Montage Hotels & Resorts. LAGUNA BEACH, CALIF. – Montage Laguna Beach has announced the appointment of Victorio Gonzalez as the resort's Managing Director. A two-decade Montage Hotels & Resorts veteran, Gonzalez will oversee all daily operations at the resort, collaborating with department managers to ensure exceptional guest experiences. 'Victorio is a dynamic and inspiring leader, driven by an unwavering commitment to service excellence,' said Jason Herthel, President and Chief Operating officer of Montage International. 'Over his 22-year tenure with our company, he has shown tremendous success delivering standout guest experiences and financial performance. We are delighted to welcome him back to Montage Laguna Beach to lead the team.' Gonzalez joined the company at its inception in 2003, serving as director of restaurants on the opening team at Montage Laguna Beach before becoming the director of food and beverage in 2007. Gonzalez served as resort manager of Montage Deer Valley and at Montage Los Cabos, where he played a key role in the successful grand opening of the company's first international resort in Mexico. He was appointed general manager of Pendry San Diego in 2020 and Montage Big Sky in 2022, where he led the resort and team to numerous accolades including a Forbes Five Star award in the property's first year of eligibility. Prior to joining Montage International, Gonzalez was founder and managing partner of Executive Dining Consultants LLC, which owned and operated restaurants in Tucson, Arizona, and consulted for the pre-opening team of Studio Restaurant at Montage Laguna Beach. He also served as general manager of restaurants at The Mirage and Bellagio in Las Vegas, Nevada and The Phoenician in Scottsdale, Arizona. Gonzalez holds degrees in classical history from the University of Arizona and economics from Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México. Montage Laguna Beach is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the heart of the vibrant arts community of Laguna Beach, California. The 262-room craftsman-style resort offers 30 acres of oceanfront luxury featuring beachfront accommodations and 23 privately owned Montage Residences. The expansive resort includes a 20,000-sq. ft. Spa Montage; destination dining amongst four restaurants, including signature restaurant, Studio Mediterranean; Montage's signature children's program, Paintbox; a wealth of outdoor recreation including two pools and direct beach access; a fine art collection; and more than 20,000-sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting space. Montage Laguna Beach is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts' worldwide collection. Montage International, the hospitality management company founded by Alan J. Fuerstman, features the ultra-luxury brand Montage Hotels & Resorts, the contemporary luxury hospitality brand Pendry Hotels & Resorts, Montage Residences, Pendry Residences, and the management of some of the country's premier golf courses and clubs. Founded in 2002, Montage Hotels & Resorts is an artistic collection of distinctive hotels, resorts, and residences. Pendry Hotels & Resorts, founded in 2014, is a collection of hotels for today's cultured world traveler located in taste-making destinations.
Travel Daily News
13-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
JW Marriott debuts in Greece with JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa
JW Marriott opens its first Greek resort in Crete, blending sustainable luxury, local culture, and wellness-focused experiences on the island's stunning coastline. JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, announced the opening of JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, the brand's first highly anticipated Mediterranean beach resort, setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality on the island. The resort features 160 elegantly appointed guest rooms, suites, and villas, all offering sweeping views of the Aegean Sea, with the majority including private pools to enhance the sense of exclusivity and relaxation. Nestled in Marathi, near the charming town of Chania, the resort spans over 100 acres of idyllic coastline, thoughtfully designed to harmonize with Crete's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. 'The opening of JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa marks a milestone moment for the brand with its entrance into Greece,' says Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. 'This extraordinary property captures the essence of the JW Marriott brand, pairing warm, intuitive service with serene, thoughtfully designed spaces that invite guests to be present and truly connect. Crete's timeless beauty and heritage make it an inspiring setting for the brand's first property in the country, and we look forward to welcoming guests to experience our signature approach to hospitality and well-being on this iconic island.' With its natural surroundings, artful design, and immersive guest experiences, JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa combines carefully curated design with experiences that reflect the authentic spirit and culture of the island. Architecture in Dialogue with Nature Crafted by the acclaimed Athens-based studio Block722, JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa embodies contemporary elegance rooted in a deep respect for its natural surroundings. Set along one of Greece's most breathtaking coastlines, the resort is harmoniously integrated into the landscape with planted roofs, olive and carob tree groves, and natural materials including marble and wood. Each thoughtfully selected design element reflects a commitment to allowing the environment to guide the architecture, creating a seamless connection between nature and modern luxury. Each guest room boasts wide windows framing sweeping panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, while shaded terraces and private pools encourage a quiet connection with the sea and sky. Inside, the aesthetic is calm and tactile: soft, organic lines and a palette of earthy Mediterranean tones, including terracotta, olive, sand, and stone, create a sense of effortless harmony. Sculptural lighting and handcrafted ceramic decorative pieces subtly nod to Crete's traditional forms, reinterpreted with a contemporary eye. The resort has been thoughtfully constructed with sustainability at its core, from geothermal and solar energy systems to heat recovery from air conditioning for hot water, and the use of treated gray water for irrigation. This commitment to environmental responsibility has guided every aspect of the resort's development, resulting in a destination that not only seamlessly blends with its surroundings, but is also deeply shaped by them. A Celebration of Gastronomy and Mixology At JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, culinary artistry takes center stage across six distinctive dining venues, each carefully designed to celebrate local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Anchoring the resort's culinary philosophy is the JW Garden, a signature element of JW Marriott properties around the world that showcases the brand's commitment to well-being and sustainability. This meticulously managed garden cultivates fresh herbs and vegetables, such as thyme, oregano, and capers, which are integrated into dishes and cocktails across the resort, enhancing flavor and connecting guests with nature. Among the standout venues is ANOEE, a Cretan open-fire restaurant led by acclaimed chef Manolis Papoutsakis, known for using the island's traditional techniques and locally foraged ingredients. Õnalos presents a refined sea-to-table concept, highlighting the best of the Aegean Sea. Cuccagna delivers rustic Italian dishes with a contemporary touch, while Fayi serves Mediterranean style sharing plates in a warm, convivial setting. For more relaxed moments, Suncti by the Pooland Eēxis serve wine, cocktails, and light dishes in serene surroundings. In collaboration with Line Athens, ranked No. 6 in The World's 50 Best Bars, the resort also features a bespoke mixology program built around Cretan botanicals and herbs from the JW Garden, combining local essences with modern techniques. The resort is also home to Europe's first JW Market, a vibrant café-retail concept that reflects the brand's commitment to well-being and authenticity. Offering locally sourced, passionately crafted products, the JW Market is a fresh, inviting space where nourishment, design, and discovery come together in harmony. A Sanctuary of Discovery, Wellness, and Togetherness At the heart of the resort's wellness offering is ANOSEAS Spa, which combines traditional Cretan healing rituals with modern immersive therapies. The spa includes five treatment rooms, hydrotherapy experiences, and a beauty room. Additional wellness facilities include a yoga deck and four swimming pools with panoramic sea views, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center. For families, JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa delivers rich, multi-generational luxury experiences thoughtfully tailored to younger guests. The Phestos Den, powered by Worldwide Kids, offers an inspiring environment for cultural discovery, hands-on learning, and creative play. Outdoor areas offer shaded tents, imaginative play zones, and a dedicated vegetable garden, all designed to foster curiosity and a connection to nature. Beyond the resort, families can enjoy bespoke sea-based adventures or curated cultural excursions to local monasteries and archaeological sites, immersive journeys that bring Crete's vibrant traditions and heritage to life.
