Douglas Elliman Expands to California Wine Country with Global Real Estate Advisors Christine Krenos and Joseph Zichelle
by ELLIMAN INSIDER TEAM
April 2026
Douglas Elliman today announced its expansion into Northern California’s coveted Wine Country, establishing a strong presence across the Napa and Sonoma markets. The move is cemented by two globally renowned real estate advisors, Christine Krenos and Joseph Zichelle, who have joined the firm following nine years together at Compass.
“Expanding into California’s Wine Country represents a strategic and highly anticipated step in Douglas Elliman’s continued growth across California,” said Michael S. Liebowitz, President and Chief Executive Officer of Douglas Elliman Inc. “This is a globally recognized luxury market, and with Christine and Joseph leading the way, we are exceptionally well-positioned to deliver best-in-class service and reach to the region.”
An internationally recognized real estate advisor, Krenos brings a rare depth of global connectivity to her business, with deep ties across the UAE, New York, Silicon Valley and California Wine Country, all of which actively funnel high-net-worth buyer and seller relationships into her practice. Her years of experience both living and transacting across Northern California and the Middle East have earned her the trust of clients who seek her guidance on investing in high-stakes regions around the world.
Zichelle’s passion for real estate and real estate investing has been foundational from the start. Early in his career, he quickly rose through the ranks as a top-performing agent in Miami, building a business that spanned both commercial and residential sectors. Driven by a sharp understanding of value and market positioning, he went on to lead a top-producing team at ONE Sotheby’s International Realty before expanding his reach to the West Coast, recognizing early the importance of cross-market connectivity between luxury hubs. His successful career in South Florida luxury real estate has made him a trusted advisor to a client base now increasingly considering re-migration from Miami to California.
Nine years ago, Zichelle formally aligned with Krenos, establishing a strategic relationship that continues to capture business across key feeder markets, from Southern to Northern California and across national and international channels.
Together, they operate with a global perspective, bridging relationships and opportunities across the country and beyond, an approach that directly informs their positioning in Wine Country today.
“Wine Country offers something rare: privacy, land and architectural beauty within reach of San Francisco,” said Krenos. “When you compare that to legacy markets like Aspen, Malibu, Palm Beach and The Hamptons, the value proposition becomes undeniable. It’s not just compelling, it’s inevitable.”
“When you combine proximity to Silicon Valley, year-round livability and the increasing quality of design-driven estates, it becomes clear: this market isn’t catching up, it’s just getting started,” added Zichelle. “And perhaps most importantly, the wealth is already here.”
Their combined networks and market fluency create a uniquely powerful platform for Douglas Elliman’s Wine Country operation, one with reach that extends far beyond the region itself.
“The Wine Country is incredibly dynamic right now, with strong demand from both domestic and international buyers seeking lifestyle-driven investments,” said Zichelle. “Joining Douglas Elliman allows us to elevate our business with a brand that matches the caliber of properties we represent and the discerning clients we serve.”
“We’re excited to bring our upcoming portfolio to market this spring and introduce a new level of global exposure and connectivity to the Wine Country communities of Northern California,” Krenos added.
Krenos and Zichelle boast significant experience in the region, having closed more than $70 million in sales volume in 2025 alone, including two off-market Wine Country transactions each valued at over $20 million. The duo is poised for a strong spring market, with close to $100 million in luxury residential listings expected to come online across Napa and Sonoma counties. These include premier properties such as 195-247 Fisher Lane in Sonoma, a $19,995,000 Juan Diego Perez-Vargas-designed multigenerational retreat with planned and permitted expansion opportunities; 601 Napa Road in Sonoma, a $12,999,000 five-bedroom, eight-bathroom estate set on 3.39 acres with a private vineyard; and 710 Soscol Creek Road in Napa, a $9,800,000 five-bedroom, six-bathroom modern farmhouse compound on 12.28 acres designed and built by Hurley/Hafen.
“This expansion reflects our commitment to aligning with top-tier talent in markets that resonate with today’s luxury buyer,” said Bill Begert, Chief Operations Officer of Brokerage, Western Region, Douglas Elliman. “Christine and Joseph have built an impressive business rooted in relationships, local expertise, global connectivity and consistent performance.”
“Their deep knowledge of the Wine Country market, combined with Douglas Elliman’s national and international platform, creates a powerful opportunity for growth,” added Peter Hernandez, President of Brokerage, California, Douglas Elliman.
Known for their discretion, market knowledge and curated approach to high-end properties, Krenos and Zichelle have established themselves among the top advisors in the region.
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