Bouncing Back

The primary meaning of “ricochet” is to bounce in an unpredictable direction. But to Erich Berg, it means bouncing back, finding a new direction, a new purpose.

Out of college, he was going to sell health insurance, but the cubicle-and-headset life wasn’t for him. Working at a Chicago restaurant, he convinced local wine distributors to teach him a few things about wine. Before long, he was the sommelier and maître d'.

The Chicago winters were rough so – sight unseen – he and his wife moved to the Willamette Valley. He picked up a job in the wine business, but after three years, broke his hip. His next move? Teach high school English in Dallas, Oregon for six years.

And then, he finally got his shot at making wine at Illahe Vineyards. But the teaching bug had bit, so after three years, he went back – this time teaching kids who were incarcerated.

Today, Erich’s got his own label. And Ricochet is all about showing those young people that no matter what life throws at you, you can always bounce back.

Every bottle sold gives back to those in need as Ricochet donates 5% of wine sales to local and regional non-profit organizations who specialize in helping people bounce back from difficult situations. Because life is full of metaphoric ricochets.