Tune in as Michael shares his journey from general contractor to winery owner, building his dream from the ground up after purchasing land in Sonoma County and founding his winery in 2005. Inspired by his Italian roots and his grandfather’s homemade winemaking in San Francisco, Michael reflects on discovering his love for growing and crafting wine and the tight-knit comunity of Kenwood.   

Tune in as Kenneth shares his journey into winemaking — from growing up in Asheville, North Carolina, to discovering wine through the culinary world and ultimately dedicating his life to the craft. His story is one of going with the flow of life and embracing the magic of dreaming big. Kenneth details his start at Donum Estate and the recent opening of Auteur’s new tasting room in the Russian River Valley - this is an episode you won’t want to miss! 

This week features a special on-the-road episode, as host Karissa Kruse sits down with Jason Brantley, Vice President of Small Ag & Turf Production Systems, and Sean Sundberg, Business Integration Manager at John Deere, during a visit to their headquarters in Illinois. 

Tune in as Jason shares his journey with John Deere — from his early days in marketing and customer service to helping expand the business into new markets — and his passion for advancing innovative technologies that are shaping the future of agriculture, including here in Sonoma County.

Tune in as they share what’s in store for the 2026 Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience (May 14th - 17th) - from standout culinary moments and new event highlights to the incredible lineup of chefs, wineries, and experiences that make this one of Sonoma County’s premier celebrations of food, wine, and community. 

Sharon reflects on her upbringing on the family ranch — from harvesting prunes, apples, and pears to her father planting the family’s first vineyards in the 1970s. Today, Paolo carries that legacy forward, farming alongside his wife while raising their young twins on the property. 

A conversation about legacy, family, and the future of Sonoma County farming you won’t want to miss! 

Tune in as Tyler shares his deep roots in agriculture — from growing up on his family’s 200-year-old cattle farm in Mississippi to building a career in agricultural finance and finding his way to Sonoma County’s wine industry. 

In this episode, Lisa reflects on the power of mentorship, the artistry behind great winemaking, and the importance of growing grapes that truly express the character of the land.  

Bailey Cassady – North Coast FFA Region President and member of the AHS Grapevine Pruning Team 
Harlyn Menendez – Analy High School student, FFA member, and Grapevine Pruning Team competitor 

Tune in to hear how these young women discovered their passion for agriculture and how the FFA program is helping them grow as future leaders. From building communication and leadership skills to competing in grapevine pruning and animal showing competitions, their stories highlight the next generation shaping the future of agriculture. 

Tune in as Bob shares how he got his start in agriculture, growing up in California’s Central Valley and working for large-production wine brands and how he made the move to Sonoma County to focus on artisanal, small-batch winemaking.   

A former Williams Selyem winemaker and now boutique winery owner, Bob’s career has been defined by craftsmanship, critical acclaim, and a passion for expressing Sonoma County’s vineyards at their very best. 

Listen in as Beth shares how a passion for hospitality led her to wine and a 25-year journey with Wine Road — and reflects on how the organization and Sonoma County’s wine community have evolved over the years. 

Tune in as Hilary shares her family’s remarkable journey—from inventing the Jacuzzi to putting down roots in Sonoma County in pursuit of winegrowing and winemaking—and as Tom reflects on his path from New Zealand’s wine industry to finding his home at Cline Cellars. 

Tune in as Clark reflects on his unique journey into the wine industry, his time working in the White House Situation Room during 9/11, and all about his new book, Saving Freedom.  

Tune in as Brian reflects on the deep history of the ranch, the story of discovering his own love for viticulture and grape growing, and what it takes to preserve a family-owned farm for future generations in today’s climate.  

Tune in as the Dutton family reflects on Gail and Warren Dutton’s entrepreneurial beginnings at Dutton Ranch selling apples and pears, how adaptability and long-term vision helped shape a multigenerational farming legacy, and what it truly means to work side by side on the land they’ve stewarded for decades

Tune in as Cameron reflects on growing up in a multigenerational farming family, the evolution of the Mauritson farming operation over time, and why farming in Sonoma County remains both a challenge and a calling. 

Tune in as Dana and Ted share the story of how they met, reflect on the Seghesio family’s deep farming roots in Sonoma County, and what it means to build a small, family-run label that’s truly theirs alone - “solo nostro”.  

Hear Joe's story of purchasing a piece of land and old building with his sister Catherine, and how he transformed it into a Bed & Breakfast and defining the hospitality and authenticity that made Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant such an iconic fixture of Sonoma County.  

Tune in as Danny shares the story behind the recently launched Reservoir Farms Sonoma — the nation’s first on-farm robotics and automation hub for viticulture, located in the heart of Sonoma County — and how Reservoir has allowed his  experience in Silicon Valley’s tech industry to come together with his deep commitment to preserving and advancing agriculture. 

Tune in to hear Tom’s story of growing up on a small farm in England, to coming to the United States and rediscovering his love of agriculture. Tom and Mary share their unique journey into the wine industry, leaving San Francisco to raise their family in West Marin and “living off the grid” as they built their home and planted their vineyards.   

Tune in to hear their stories about growing up working in agriculture in Alexander Valley working, and reconnecting as adults to build Garden Creek Winery together.  A story of hard work, dedication, and appreciation for the land – Karin and Justin teach us how the triumphs and tribulations make us who we are. 

Tune in to hear their story of pivoting from careers in PR to following their dream of growing winegrapes and making wine.  In this episode, the Busselen's share how they fell in love with winemaking and Sonoma County and how their passion for lifelong learning, hospitality, and storytelling is at the heart of everything they do at Woodhawk Vineyards. 

Tune in to hear Sarah’s inspiring journey — from discovering her passion for winemaking and rising to Winemaker at Ferrari-Carano and SVP of Winemaking for Foley Family Wines, to finding community in Healdsburg and opening the doors to her very own Bubble Bar and wine club. 

Learn how Scott and Parke's parents, Dick and Mary, felt drawn to life in Sonoma County, relocating from Berkley to pursue their dreams of farming. Dick and Mary would go on to purchase a prune orchard in the 1960’s which today is now a vineyard and winery led by Parke as Winemaker and Scott leading finance and marketing.

Born and raised in Sonoma County, Aaron’s journey into winemaking is as unique as his wines — from developing an acute sense of smell and flavor through severe childhood allergies to channeling that awareness into crafting expressive, site-driven wines. A passionate advocate for sustainability, he bikes to work and champions regenerative farming practices that honor both the vineyard and the environment.

From a foundation in music and storytelling to shaping the voices of iconic Sonoma County wineries, Jenifer has built a career around connection. She now helps share the vision of John and Nancy Lasseter, whose love for Sonoma County and the historic community of Glen Ellen inspired them to restore their estate, farm organically, and craft expressive Rhône- and Bordeaux-style blends rooted in place and legacy. 

From growing up on his family’s multi-generational ranch to becoming a leader in regenerative agriculture and local wool production, Joe’s story reflects the deep agricultural roots, innovation, and stewardship that define Sonoma County.  

Tune in today to hear how Joe continues to cultivate a legacy of care for the land—and for the community that calls it home. 

Tune in as Heidi discusses her journey from growing up in an agricultural community in Wisconsin to discovering her passion in Sonoma County’s wine industry. 

From her early days working in cellars, labs, and bottling lines, to shaping programs for Sonoma-Cutrer and now leading MacRostie’s renowned Pinot Noir program, Heidi’s story is a testament to dedication, craftsmanship, and the vibrant community that makes Sonoma wine so special. 

Tune in as Carolyn shares her journey from equestrian in New England to Sonoma County vintner, her passion for hospitality and food pairings, and the inspiration she finds working alongside her daughters in their family business. 

Tune in as Erica and Hayden discuss the unique history of her family's property in Sonoma, which includes a ghost town and former home to the Sonoma County Rodeo, and share their journey's into the wine industry and what the Larson Family Motto "We drink what we can and sell the rest" means to them.

Tune in as he shares his passion for organic and biodynamic farming, and how a deep connection to the land guides his approach to crafting wines with intention and vision. 

A third-generation Sonoma County native, Matt has deep roots in the region and a profound connection to the Sonoma Coast AVA. Known for its diverse microclimates and rugged terrain, the Sonoma Coast inspires his work, shaping wines that capture both intensity and nuance.

For Matt, viticulture is more than a professionit’, s a calling. He believes the foundation of every exceptional wine begins in the vineyard, where thoughtful farming lays the groundwork for authenticity and character in the glass. Alongside his wife Kaela, the couple continues to champion the values of family, community, and the land that defines Sonoma County.

Shelly shares the story of her family’s deep roots in Sonoma County, and making connections through wine. She reflects on her journey to becoming a winemaker, carrying forward her family’s legacy, and the dedication it took to help build A. Rafanelli into the winery it is today.

Mike talks about growing up in Sonoma County, his early interest in the wine industry, and taking the leap to co-found Benovia Winery in the Russian River Valley.  Mike reflects on a few of his "WOW" wine moments over the years and key learning experiences that shaped him into the winemaker he is today.

Bill shares how he and his wife Betsy made the leap from a career in law and public policy to farming grapes in Sonoma County, where Bill's family roots stretch back to the 1860s. Bill recalls the moment in 1989 when he first saw Alegría Vineyards and knew it was the place to build a future. He reflects on the challenges and triumphs of those early years, the lessons learned as a winemaker with ACORN Winery, and the unique experience of farming alongside Betsy.

Bill also shares what he’s most proud of from his journey, and what lies ahead for Alegria Vineyards!

Phillip shares his unconventional journey from practicing law on the East Coast to winemaking across continents—from South Africa to Australia to California. He opens up about the moment he knew it was time to leave the courtroom for the vineyard.

Jen, with a background in biochemistry and nearly 20 years in the industry, talks about how science shaped her love of wine- and how that lens still guides her leadership today.

They reflect on the mentors and moments that shaped their paths, and how those experiences influence their work now at North Coast Wine Co. From launching standout brands like Outerbound to exploring new vineyard sites, to collaboration to create new ideas and crafting wines that express a true sense of place and varietal character. 

The husband-and-wife team provide a behind the scenes look into Stark Reality Restaurants, a collection of eight locally loved restaurants in Sonoma County. They opened their first, Willi’s Wine Bar, in 2002, introducing the small plates concept to Santa Rosa. Over the next two decades, they steadily expanded their footprint across Sonoma County. 

Listen in to hear about their journey from meeting in Palo Alto to building one of Sonoma County’s most beloved restaurant groups, their inspirations behind each unique concept, and how they balance culinary creativity with hospitality excellence! 

Jack shares his story of trading a career in nuclear engineering for a life among the vines in Sonoma County. Originally from New York, Jack spent over two decades in the nuclear energy industry, often traveling to Asia. But after missing Easter with his family due to a work commitment in South Korea, Jack and his wife Fran knew it was time for a change.

Inspired by a newspaper article about grape growing in Napa Valley, Jack began exploring viticulture and ultimately relocated his family to Dry Creek Valley, where they established Florence Vineyard. The transition wasn’t easy- Jack’s early days included a rocky relationship with a vineyard manager and a humbling first harvest that made him realize he needed to get his hands dirty. He left engineering behind and embraced farming full-time, instilling a love for the land in his son, Jack Jr.

Jack also shares how his vision and perseverance helped shape the Rockpile AVA in 2002, in partnership with the Park family. Today, he remains active in the vineyard alongside his wife Carol, continuing a family legacy rooted in passion, resilience, and community. 

Karen shares the early days of bringing Limerick Lane back to life in the 1990s, working alongside Tom Collins to revive long-dormant vineyards. She shares what it was like to walk through the property for the first time in decades, the emotional pull of returning to land rich with history, and the foundational work that went into rebuilding the estate.

Karen’s career path took her from wine country to Detroit, where she became one of the youngest female executives in the automotive industry. She discusses how her background in agriculture informed her leadership approach and the parallels she sees between managing a legacy wine estate and overseeing global brands like Oldsmobile and Ford.

The conversation comes full circle as Karen shares what makes Limerick Lane wines unique to her and the legacy she hopes to leave behind: one of bold choices, heartfelt returns, and deep respect for the land that started it all.

Kevin’s path to winemaking was anything but typical. After earning a mechanical engineering degree from Cornell and designing makeup tanks for Estée Lauder, he found himself drawn to the world of wine- and soon after, faced with a surprise visit from the ATF, ABC, and Napa DA for his garage winemaking operation. That wild start gave way to Montagne Russe Wines, named after the French word for roller coaster- a fitting metaphor for his journey. Today, Kevin crafts expressive Syrah and Pinot Noir in the Petaluma Gap and has even blended his love of music into the experience with Vino & Vinyls, a record shop tucked inside his Healdsburg tasting room, featuring over 2,000 records.

Steve Sangiacomo, meanwhile, represents the next generation of one of Sonoma County’s most respected farming families. Having grown up working the vineyards, Steve now co-leads operations across 1,600 acres and supplies grapes to more than 70 top wineries. From early morning frost protection runs to launching the Sangiacomo Family Wines label, Steve brings deep-rooted passion and strategic vision to the Petaluma Gap and beyond. 

Together, Kevin and Steve offer a dynamic look at the Petaluma Gap's evolution, terroir, and collaborative spirit.  

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Andrea shares her remarkable journey to becoming one of only 28 women in the world to hold the Master Sommelier title. She was the first woman ever named Best Sommelier in the U.S., currently curates wine for Delta Air Lines, and has earned three James Beard Awards. In 2004, Bon Appétit honored her as Wine and Spirits Professional of the Year. 

She opens up about her roots—growing up in North Dakota, Texas, and Southern Indiana—and how her early love for cooking eventually led to an unexpected passion for wine after taking a tasting class while in college. That one class changed everything. 

Andrea talks about starting her career in finance after earning economics and business degrees from Southern Methodist University, and how volunteering at a wine school in exchange for classes opened the door to a whole new world. A chance to lead a tasting for Champagne Krug sealed her fate—she left her job at Morgan Stanley the next day to follow her calling. 

She also recounts her solo six-month journey across Europe, where she immersed herself in wine culture before landing a role at the iconic Windows on the World in New York City. Mentored by wine legend Kevin Zraly, Andrea became the restaurant’s first female cellar master and eventually earned her Master Sommelier diploma. She even competed in the World Championship of Sommeliers.

Andrea shares insights into writing four bestselling wine and food books, including the award-winning Everyday Dining with Wine, and how she created her own stemware line, The ONE, designed to enhance any wine with just one universal shape. 

She discusses the launch of her video wine course at andreawine.com, where she continues to educate thousands of wine lovers each month. Andrea also opens up about building beverage programs for top hospitality brands—from cruise lines to hotel groups—and her passion for teaching both professionals and everyday wine drinkers.

Andrea reflects on her television work, having hosted over 100 episodes for Scripps Networks, including Quench on Food Network and Pairings with Andrea on Fine Living. Named a Working Mother of the Year, she’s also been featured by People, Glamour, NBC’s Today Show, CBS This Morning, and The New York Times.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

A Sonoma County native, Rick’s winemaking journey began humbly at age 20 on the bottling line at Sebastiani Winery. A single step into the cellar—and the nostalgic scent of fermentation—transported him back to his childhood memories of canning jam with his mother, igniting a lifelong passion. From there, Rick trained under acclaimed winemakers like Doug Nalle and John Kongsgaard, developing deep roots in Sonoma’s winemaking traditions, particularly the bold varietals of Dry Creek Valley.

But Rick’s story doesn’t stop with grapes. A chance pottery class led him to discover a new creative outlet: shaping clay amphorae, the ancient vessels once used to store and age wine. That intersection of art and craft became the soul of Amphora Winery, which Rick founded in 1997 with just a few tons of Zinfandel and Petite Sirah—and a vision to do things differently.

Today, Amphora stands out as one of the few California wineries fermenting and aging wine in traditional Italian terracotta. From its early days in a redwood barn to its current home in the Timber Crest collective, Amphora has grown into a destination for adventurous, small-lot wines. Rick shares how his portfolio has expanded to include varietals like Mourvèdre, Alicante Bouschet, Teroldego, and sparkling rosé—while always staying true to his philosophy of sourcing great fruit and letting the wine speak for itself.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks! 

Dani’s journey in wine spans more than 14 years building and managing two of the most dynamic corporate wine programs in the world—including her time as Executive Director of Wine for Wynn Resorts, where she led a $42 million-a-year program across four global properties. Prior to that, she oversaw the Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group’s corporate wine program during a period of explosive growth.

Now based in Healdsburg, Dani shares how she transitioned from the high-stakes world of luxury hospitality to running Maison du Prix, one of the world’s most respected fine wine sourcing companies, alongside launching Fat Dragon Wines, an estate-driven label that crafts Rhône varietals and Cabernet Sauvignon from their meticulously restored Dry Creek Valley vineyard.

The story behind Fat Dragon Wines is as bold as its name—born from a surprise bet at the Hong Kong racetrack and brought to life on a once-abandoned 30-acre vineyard property. Listeners will hear how Dani and her husband Mike transformed the land, what it takes to build a brand from scratch, and how they’re offering a new kind of wine hospitality experience with their vineyard cottages.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks! 

A proud Petaluma native, Dayna takes us through her inspiring path in agriculture—from growing up on a dairy farm and participating in 4-H and FFA, to now leading one of Sonoma County’s most influential ag organizations. Her journey reflects a deep connection to the land, a passion for community, and a strong commitment to supporting local farmers and ranchers.

During the conversation, Dayna shares insights from her time with the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) and how that experience broadened her perspective on ag education and outreach. She also speaks to the role the dairy industry played in shaping her values around advocacy, sustainability, and the importance of giving back—especially to the youth programs that helped shape her early years.

Listeners will get an inside look at the Sonoma County Farm Bureau’s work, including the ways it champions local agriculture through policy support, education, and sustainability initiatives. 

Looking ahead, Dayna shares her vision for the future of Sonoma County agriculture and how the Farm Bureau is evolving to meet the needs of a diverse and dynamic ag community. From supporting a wide range of crops to empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders, she paints a hopeful and strategic picture of what’s to come.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks! 

John shares the remarkable story of growing up in West Sebastopol, working on his family’s five-acre vegetable farm from a young age. After his father’s untimely passing in 1977, John turned down college athletic scholarships to stay home and help his mother, Hazel, keep the farm alive. What began with a $200 budget and a flatbed Chevy truck eventually grew into the largest vegetable operation in Northern California by the mid-1990s.

After devastating storm damage and shifting agricultural pressures in the late 1990s, he pivoted from vegetables to wine grapes—ultimately founding Balletto Vineyards with his wife, Terri, in 2001. Today, the winery produces 20,000–25,000 cases annually from estate fruit, and John remains deeply committed to his community and vineyard team, even building a baseball field—aptly named the “Dream Field”—for employees and their families to enjoy.

In this candid conversation, John reflects on the values that shaped his journey, the turning points that defined his success, and the local relationships—including his longtime friendship with Karissa—that helped guide Balletto Vineyards from its humble beginnings to one of Sonoma County’s most respected wine labels.

Christopher grew up in Occidental alongside childhood friends—and fellow Senses Co-Founders—Max Thieriot and Myles Lawrence-Briggs. Their families all moved to the area in the 1980s to raise their children in the countryside, instilling in each of them a deep appreciation for growing up among the redwoods and along the California coast. Though none of them initially planned to enter the wine industry, the trio later reunited around an idea that began as one of Christopher’s graduate school projects. Young and ambitious, they brought that plan to life and, using fruit from Max and Myles’ family vineyards, launched Senses Wines with just over 100 cases. Today, it has grown into a respected label specializing in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from some of the most renowned vineyards on the West Sonoma Coast and in the Russian River Valley.

Now leading the company’s business strategy, sales, and daily operations, Christopher shares how his lifelong friendships, hometown connections, and the supportive local community helped shape the evolution of Senses Wines.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

A New Orleans native and environmental attorney, Art Murray shares how his love for food, family, and connection led him to Healdsburg—where just three visits were enough to fall in love with a vineyard and start a new chapter in Dry Creek Valley. With roots in Louisiana, a place known for its rich and diverse food and wine heritage, and a name inspired by the torchbearers of Mardi Gras, Flambeaux Wine blends Southern spirit with Sonoma County soul.

Art reflects on how launching Flambeaux became his way of “passing the torch”—creating something lasting to share with his four daughters and the broader community. What began with just 400 cases has grown to over 2,000 annually, with a focus on small-lot Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Rosé. For Art, wine is about more than what’s in the glass—it’s about connection, from harvest to hospitality.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

A pioneer in Sonoma County viticulture, Anne moved from Germany to California in the early 1980s, rising through the ranks at Buena Vista Carneros and playing a pivotal role in establishing the Carneros AVA.

Anne shares her journey from vineyard manager to founder of the renowned Donum Estate and, later, Blue Farm Wines—a boutique winery producing small-lot, single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay rooted in precision, elegance, and place. Hannah, who grew up on the Blue Farm property, reflects on her decision to return home after college and immerse herself in the family’s winemaking legacy.

Together, they explore how generational passion, thoughtful farming, and a deep connection to Sonoma County continue to shape Blue Farm’s story.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Amy shares her journey from growing up in Guerneville with no roots in wine to co-founding a vineyard management company with her husband Charlie and eventually diving into the craft of winemaking and launching a brand of her own. CJ, raised on the family ranch, knew early on that he wanted to follow in the family’s farming footsteps and now plays a key role in growing premium fruit for both their own label and dozens of top wineries.

Together, Amy and CJ dive into the Chenoweth family’s 170+ years of farming in Sonoma County—from redwood logging and cherry orchards to planting some of today’s most celebrated Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards, including Treehouse and Bootlegger’s Hill. They reflect on the family legacy, long-standing partnerships with producers like Patz & Hall and Kosta Browne, and the stories that define their family's legacy and brand.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Prema shares how her journey with Three Sticks began in 2000, when she started working closely with Bill Price III at Texas Pacific Group. At the time, Three Sticks was Bill’s small, boutique passion project — a way to craft exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to share with friends and family. Drawn by her passion for hospitality and strong business sense, Prema quickly became a key part of the winery’s growth, helping expand its allocation list beyond the original circle to a growing community of devoted wine lovers.

As the years passed, Prema’s role deepened, evolving from supporting early development to managing the day-to-day operations, building vineyard relationships, and overseeing the expansion of Three Sticks’ offerings. Prema takes pride in Sonoma’s rich history and led the preservation and transformation of the historic Vallejo-Casteñada Adobe — an 1842-built landmark that now serves as Three Sticks’ welcoming tasting salon in downtown Sonoma. This seamless blend of history and hospitality perfectly reflects the winery’s ongoing commitment to legacy and quality.

Join Virginie and Karissa as they dive into Prema’s unique path in the wine industry, her longstanding partnership with Bill Price, and the story behind Three Sticks and its iconic Adobe tasting room. And finally, share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

With more than 30 years of experience in media and event sponsorship, Steve shares how the idea for Healdsburg Wine & Food was born and how, in partnership with Sonoma County Winegrowers, it has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated festivals. Dustin, a Healdsburg native and visionary chef, brings his passion for local flavors and hospitality, sharing a bit of his Sonoma County roots and the culinary treats in store for the weekend!

Together, Steve and Dustin share a behind-the-scenes look at this year’s festival highlights—including exclusive chef-led lunches and dinners, VIP tastings and lounges, the signature Big Bottle Party, and the laid-back Sunday Wine-Down Pool Party at Montage. Along the way, they reflect on the memories, milestones, and the collaborative spirit that continues to define Healdsburg’s unique food and wine scene.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Lauren and Amanda share their unique journeys—from Lauren’s international event production experience to Amanda’s passion for community and marketing in the wine world—and how those paths led them to their key roles supporting Dry Creek Valley’s vibrant winegrower community.

They dive into everything you need to know about this year’s Passport to Dry Creek Valley, highlighting the immersive tastings, vineyard tours, gourmet food pairings, and live entertainment that make Passport a must-attend event. Tune in to hear about the rich history behind Dry Creek Valley, the evolution of Passport, and what’s in store for this year’s celebration.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Bret Munselle shares the story of his family’s nearly 150-year legacy in Alexander Valley, tracing the journey from founding some of the region’s earliest wineries to becoming pioneers in sustainable farming. Bret reflects on his own path—from studying at UC Davis, to working at American AgCredit, and then returning to join the family business and eventually launch his own wine label—which fueled his passion for agriculture and innovation.

Today, Bret and his family manage around 800 acres and produce award-winning wines under the Munselle Vineyards label. Together, they explore the evolution of their family business, the deep roots that ground their work, and Bret’s vision for the future of Sonoma County agriculture.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Hear from the passionate team behind WineFest No. 28: A Toast to Children’s Health—a premier fundraiser supporting pediatric healthcare advancements at M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital. Since 1995, WineFest has raised over $25 million for groundbreaking research, care, and education, and this year’s event is set to carry that mission even further.

Sonoma County Winegrowers is proud to be this year’s featured wine region partner, bringing wines from across the region to share and celebrate throughout the four-day event. Tune in to hear what’s in store and the inspiring story behind WineFest’s legacy.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

George Martinelli and his niece Tessa grew up immersed in Sonoma County’s rich agricultural heritage. George, born and raised in Sonoma County, started driving tractors and managing apple crews by age 10, learning viticulture alongside his father and working closely with family across vineyards and the family winery. Tessa grew up on the family’s Bondi Home Ranch vineyard in Sebastopol, surrounded by generations of winemakers. She pursued a degree in Wine and Viticulture at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, including studies in Switzerland, and gained experience at wineries throughout Sonoma before returning home in 2020 as Estate Director for Martinelli Winery & Vineyards.

Together, they share the story of their family’s iconic vineyards, including the legendary Jackass Hill — known for its steep slopes and historic significance — and reflect on what it means to carry a legacy that’s been growing in Sonoma County since the 1880s. They dive into their roles in the family business, the evolution of their vineyards, and their vision for the future.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Jane Portalupi, co-founder of Portalupi Wines, has been instrumental in shaping the winery's vision and success. She was born and raised in a small coastal town in Northern California and attended Western Washington University for College, getting a degree in Marketing. She first met her husband, Tim Borges, as a child. Their paths crossed again in 2001, leading to their marriage and the inception of Portalupi Wines in 2002.

With a background in retail marketing, Jane brought a strategic and customer-focused approach to the winery. Her passion for Italian heritage and winemaking traditions, inspired by her grandmother Marina Portalupi, has been central to the winery's philosophy. Marina, who immigrated from Piemonte, Italy, to Northern California, instilled in Jane the belief that wine is meant to be enjoyed regularly with friends and family. Portalupi calls themselves "Cal-Ital,” honoring Italian and California roots through their wines.

Under Jane's leadership, Portalupi Wines has expanded its portfolio to include Italian varietals such as Zinfandel, Barbera, Pinot Noir, Charbono, and Vermentino, they also have rosé, sparkling, and a liquore. In 2011, they opened a tasting room in downtown Healdsburg, offering visitors a chance to experience their unique Cal-Ital wines firsthand.

Before Portalupi, there was Luna Park Grocery—Jane Portalupi’s Nonna's beloved neighborhood store in San Jose. There, her Nonna bottled her homemade wine in milk jugs, sharing it with family, friends, and visitors just like she would have a warm meal.

Portalupi’s Vaso di Marina collection (Vaso di Marina Rosso & Vaso di Marina Bianco) was inspired by the milk jugs Jane Portalupi’s grandmother used to bottle wine at her grocery store. Beginning this year, 2% of all sales from Portalupi’s Vaso di Marina product line will directly benefit Farm to Pantry, supporting their mission to serve local communities in need.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Chris Hanna is the President of her family’s winery, Hanna Winery, based in Healdsburg and Santa Rosa, Sonoma County. Growing up on the home ranch, she began making small batches of wine with her father, winery founder Dr. Elias S. Hanna, in the late 1970s and early ’80s.

Christine joined Hanna Winery full-time in 1991, starting in public relations and marketing before assuming management in 1993. Under her leadership, the winery expanded from 1,000 to over 50,000 cases, establishing national distribution and a thriving direct-to-consumer program through two tasting rooms and three wine clubs. She shifted the winery’s focus to Russian River Sauvignon Blanc, a consistent award winner now making up more than half of Hanna’s production and newly available in kegs. She also transitioned the winery to an estate-based model, marketing Hanna’s vineyard fruit to other top wineries and launching the acclaimed Reserve, Elias, and Bismark Mountain tiers, highlighting small-lot, high-quality estate wines.

The Winery: Hanna Winery produces outstanding Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. With over 250 acres spanning the cool Russian River Valley, sunny Alexander Valley, and rugged Mayacamas Mountains, the winery remains dedicated to crafting wines that reflect Sonoma County’s diverse terroir. The recent addition of Chris’ home ranch on Bradford Mountain in Dry Creek Valley further strengthens its estate-driven approach.

The winery’s roots trace back to Dr. Elias Hanna, a pioneering cardiac surgeon who sought refuge in the countryside. In 1985, his family pastime evolved into a business with the founding of Hanna Winery. Chris embraced this legacy while steering the winery toward innovation, championing estate-grown vineyards when the industry favored purchased fruit. Recognizing the potential of Russian River Sauvignon Blanc early on, she positioned Hanna Winery at the forefront of the category.

Today, Hanna Winery is built on a foundation of vision and resilience. Chris has cultivated a team of like-minded innovators, including winemaker Jeff Hinchliffe, who prioritizes sustainability, ensuring the winery’s legacy for generations to come.

Beyond Wine: Christine is the author of The Winemaker Cooks: Menus, Parties, and Pairings (Chronicle Books, 2010), which was a finalist for Best American Cookbook by the International Association of Culinary Professionals. Her recipes have been featured in Food & Wine, Savor Magazine, The Tasting Panel, Imbibe, California Home+Design, and the television show In Wine Country. She also teaches cooking classes nationwide, including at Williams Sonoma, Sur La Table, and Central Market Cooking School.

Christine has played a pivotal role in the wine industry, serving as past President of Sonoma County Vintners, where she helped reposition the organization’s marketing strategy. She also chaired the Sonoma County Showcase and Auction, directing Taste of Sonoma, one of the region’s premier food and wine events.

In addition to her industry leadership, Christine is an Adjunct Professor in the Wine Studies department at Santa Rosa Junior College. She is the incoming Board Chair at Sonoma Academy, Treasurer at The Healdsburg School, and a past President of the Board of Trustees for the Alexander Valley Unified School District. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English literature, a master’s degree in creative writing, and has completed postgraduate studies in business, viticulture, and enology.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Tim Bell, Director of Winemaking at Dry Creek Vineyard, has worked with a wide range of grape varieties and wine styles in Napa Valley, Sonoma, and the Central Coast: still wine, sparkling, dessert, even Kosher. He graduated with honors in winemaking at UC Davis, learning the intricacies of wine chemistry and microbiology that inform his stylistic choices in creating delicious blends. Early in his career, Tim worked at Freemark Abbey, helping to shape the wine style and vineyard program. Later, he became the Director of Winemaking at Kunde, gaining critical acclaim for his Sauvignon Blancs, Zinfandels and Cabernet Sauvignons. Tim joined the winemaking team at Dry Creek Vineyard starting in 2011, bringing in more than 20 years of winemaking experience to the team.

Away from the winery, Tim spends time outdoors with his family as much as he can, usually somewhere involving bodies of water. His other interests include music of all kinds and good food (and wine!). On weekends Tim can be found grilling up the tastiest burgers on the west coast.

Dry Creek Vineyard was founded in 1972 by David S. Stare, a visionary who defied convention to establish the first new winery in Dry Creek Valley following Prohibition. Inspired by his travels in France and determined to bring world-class winemaking to Sonoma County, Dave planted Sauvignon Blanc despite industry skepticism, sparking a viticultural renaissance in the region. His pioneering spirit laid the foundation for a family-owned winery that remains deeply committed to the land and community.

In the late 1980s, Dave’s daughter, Kim Stare Wallace, and her husband, Don Wallace, took on leadership roles, ushering in a new era of innovation and sustainability. As other family wineries sold to corporate buyers, they doubled down on quality, reducing production while refining their estate-driven, terroir-focused wines. By 2011, they had assembled a powerhouse team, including acclaimed winemaker Tim Bell, and expanded their sustainably farmed estate to 185 acres.

Family owned and sustainably farmed for over 50 years, Dry Creek Vineyard remains a benchmark for Sonoma County winemaking, proving that independence and integrity are the keys to enduring success. Today they own 185 acres of estate vineyards that are 100% certified sustainable all in the Dry Creek Valley.

Wine for sailors? Dry Creeks logo has a sailboat as the design, as the family has been avid sailors since 1972 and wanted to combine a Love for Wine with a Passion for Sailing! “Since 1982, sailboat imagery has graced our labels, capturing the spirit of the high seas and our passion for the sport. We believe that the art of winemaking and the skill of sailing have a lot in common. Like winemaking, sailing is fun, adventuresome, and daring. Like sailing, the art of winemaking demands skill, discipline, and plenty of help from Mother Nature."

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Dan Kosta has over 20 years of experience in the Sonoma County wine industry, very well known as a premium pinot noir and chardonnay producer.

A native of Sonoma wine country, Dan’s exposure to wine began in childhood, inspired by his father, who owned a wine shop and had a passion for vino. His lifelong love of food and wine guided him to a career in the restaurant industry, where he applied skills developed early on to excel in roles across a series of world-class restaurants. Dan progressed from back waiter to waiter, bartender, maître d’, operations manager, and ultimately wine director at the renowned John Ash & Company in Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley. It was there, in 1997, that Dan and his business partner, Michael Browne, founded Kosta Browne Winery. As a founder, Dan led marketing programs, managed sales, and oversaw a nationwide distribution network.

After co-founding Kosta Browne with Michael Browne in 1997, Kosta’s name became synonymous with Pinot Noir as he traveled the world sharing his award-winning wines. His exploration of the grape continued with AldenAlli, which he founded in 2013 as a collaboration with celebrity Chef Emeril and his wife Alden Lagasse.

Dan's accomplishments and contributions to the American wine industry are numerous. From industry volunteerism to children's advocacy philanthropy, Dan continues to leverage his network for giving back to community through Convene. S

About Convene: Founded August 2022

Founded by Dan Kosta and crafted in partnership with winemaker Shane Finley, Convene embodies over fifteen years of collaboration and a shared commitment to excellence. Focused on creating exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay blends from cool-climate regions, Convene sources its fruit from California’s most renowned winegrowing regions, from the Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley, and Santa Lucia Highlands AVAs.

Winemaker Shane Finley, recognized for his global expertise and meticulous craftsmanship, has played an integral role in Convene’s journey. With experience spanning Australia’s Barossa Valley, France’s Northern Rhône, and California’s Russian River Valley, Shane brings a world of skill to the table. His partnership with Dan Kosta dates back to the early days of Kosta Browne.

**Convenes tasting room is located within Bacchus Landing in Healdsburg

 About DK Wine Group:

DK Wine Group, launched in 2021 and founded by renowned vintner Dan Kosta, serves as the parent company for several wine labels, including Convene and DK Grail. Dan also has a wine brand called Admire, that focuses on Pinot Noir.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

David was born and raised in Northern California in Fairfield and discovered his passion for wine while studying Wine Business Strategies at Sonoma State University. His interest was sparked by his roommate, who worked at a local winery and often brought home wines to taste. The fermentation bug bit David while he was taking an undergraduate brewing class. He continued to hone his skills over batches of home brewed beer with a few friends, and it left David looking for a new challenge. He had a stint in cheesemaking, but wine would eventually become his real passion.

In 2009, while David was working in a tasting room and completing his bachelor's degree in Wine Business Strategies, he produced his first batch of wine in his carport after convincing a local grower to give him a half ton of grapes. After graduation, he took a full-time job working in the cellar for a small pinot producing winery, who rented out custom crush space to clients.

After some time, David made his way over to Napa County and worked with two of the Valley's most respected estate wineries; the Eisele Vineyard and Groth. David returned to Sonoma County to take a production supervisor role at a family-owned biodynamic winery and then at Benovia, a small estate winery in the heart of the Russian River Valley.

In 2017, David joined Donelan Family Wines as the Cellar Master. Not long after his arrival–and under the guidance of Joe Nielsen, Former Head Winemaker and now Advisor at Donelan Family Wines–David was promoted to Assistant Winemaker. In 2019 David became the Head Winemaker of Donelan Family Wines. Today his title is: Director of Winemaking and Viticulture.

David’s winemaking philosophy of “...trusting your gut in making wines that clearly show where they come from,” will portray just that. He believes the goal is not to change what or how things have been done, but to understand and embrace the process through the lens of a given vintage.

About Donelan: Donelan Family Wines is a boutique winery in Sonoma County, celebrated for crafting exceptional Syrah. Their portfolio also includes Grenache, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Roussanne, and Viognier, reflecting their commitment to producing elegant, small-batch wines. The winery is family-owned and operated by Joe Donelan, the founder, alongside his sons Tripp (Director of Sales) and Cushing (Director of Marketing).

Joe Donelan’s wine journey began in the late 1980s at Toppers Restaurant on Nantucket, where he and his family were introduced to fine wines by the restaurant’s sommelier, Michael Fahey. This sparked a lifelong passion that led him to California, where he started bottling wines in 2000 under the name Pax Wine Cellars. In 2009, Pax evolved into Donelan Family Wines.

Known for their meticulous vineyard sourcing, the Donelan team collaborates with top growers in Sonoma County to ensure each wine expresses the unique character of the region.

The Vineyards: Donelan has vineyards stretching from the Mendocino Coast AVA to Bennett Valley AVA. They have at least 7 Vineyard sites, their most well-known being their Obsidian Vineyard located in the Knights Valley AVA.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Meghan Murphy serves as the Sustainability Manager for the Bundschu Company, a role she began in July 2020. She oversees sustainability initiatives across multiple of their brands, including Gundlach Bundschu Winery and Abbot’s Passage Winery & Mercantile. Meghan graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a degree in Sociology and holds a Master’s in Global Sustainability and Climate Change from the University of South Florida.

Meghan’s achievements include being named one of Wine Enthusiast’s Future 40, recognizing her as a tastemaker shaping the future of the drinks industry. Her leadership has been pivotal in guiding the Bundschu family’s ranches to organic farming and achieving Regenerative Organic Certified® (ROC) status for 304 acres at Rancho Agua Caliente and Rhinefarm vineyards, both located in Sonoma Valley.

Meghan’s passion for sustainability was sparked in Haiphong, Vietnam, where she witnessed both the beauty of vibrant agriculture and the harsh reality of pollution from Western garbage barges. This experience fueled her dedication to regenerative agriculture, which she sees as a way to cultivate stronger vines and resilient ecosystems. By shifting the focus from just grape production to nurturing the entire vineyard ecosystem, Meghan has revolutionized the company’s winegrowing approach.

The Bundschu Company is the Bundschu family’s parent organization overseeing various ventures. The company is dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and preserving its legacy while fostering new opportunities in agriculture and hospitality. They have ownership over Gundlach Bundschu Winery, GUNBUN, Abbot’s Passage Winery and Mercantile, Huichica Music Festival, and Bundschu Winery and Vineyard Service.

History of the Bundschu Family: A Century Club Family

The Bundschu family has been farming in Sonoma County since 1858, establishing a remarkable six-generation legacy on Rhinefarm as the oldest family-owned winery in California. It began with Jacob Gundlach, who planted the estate’s first vineyards after a journey from Germany, farming their first grapes in 1860. Notable figures like Charles Bundschu joined in 1868, contributing to innovations like grafting disease-resistant rootstocks to defeat Phylloxera, and championing California wines internationally.

Through hardships from the 1906 earthquake to Prohibition, the family persevered, rebuilding their winery and replanting vineyards multiple times. The modern era saw revitalization under Jim Bundschu, with the reopening of the Gundlach Bundschu Winery in 1973. In 2016, the family expanded their legacy by creating Abbot’s Passage.

Today, the sixth generation (including siblings Jeff, Katie, and Rob, Jeff’s wife Liz and Rob’s wife Zeynep) continues the family tradition, earning accolades for sustainable and organic farming practices, including Regenerative Organic Certified® status and being honored with one of Wine Enthusiast’s top 100 wines of the world in 2023.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Sean Sundberg serves as the Business Integration Manager at John Deere, where he plays a pivotal role in integrating innovative technologies and sustainable practices into the company's agricultural solutions. His expertise bridges the gap between advanced machinery and practical applications for farmers.

Background with John Deere/Pilot Program:

In the summer of 2023, John Deere participated in the Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW) Farm of the Future Strategic Summit, marking the start of a promising collaboration. As the partnership evolved, in March of 2024, John Deere became an integral part of SCW's innovative Farm of the Future initiative--a living lab for the future of agriculture and a hub for accelerating innovation.

Through this initiative, John Deere, and local dealer, Belkorp Ag, collaborated with six pilot farmers across Sonoma County: Bevill Vineyard Management - Duff Bevill & Matt Vogensen, Sangiacomo Vineyards – Steve & Mike Sangiacomo, Redwood Empire Vineyard Management – Tyler Klick & Kevin Barr, Dutton Ranch – Steve & Joe Dutton, Serres Ranch – Taylor Serres, and Munselle Vineyards – Bret Munselle. These pilot farmers implemented the SmartApply Intelligent Spray Control System with the goal of reducing crop protection material usage and lowering operational costs.

After the first year of the program SCW, John Deere and the pilot farmers gathered to discuss the SmartApply technology and discovered that across the 2200 acres the technology was piloted on, farmers saw about a 30% reduction in material cost. Looking ahead to 2025 we are continuing our partnership with John Deere and the pilot program using SmartApply technology.

SmartApply

The SmartApply technology assists growers in transforming their farming operation by using sophisticated LIDAR (light detection and ranging technology) technology that senses the presence of individual grapevines and automatically adjusts spray volume based on foliage density and stops spraying between vines to optimize protection.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Allison Jordan has served as Executive Director of the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance since 2007, where she is responsible for leading the award-winning California Sustainable Winegrowing Program and Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing. She joined Wine Institute in 2003, and now serves as Vice President, Environmental Affairs for Wine Institute, a department she established in 2007 to address wine industry environmental and sustainability issues at local, state, federal and international levels.

Allison is also a founding partner in two restaurants, Giordano Bros. in San Francisco, and Monk's Kettle Terra Linda in Marin County. She holds a Master of Public Policy degree from the Goldman School of Public Policy at University of California Berkeley, a B.A. in Psychology from Allegheny College, a Certificate in Wine Business Management from Sonoma State University, and WSET Level 2 from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. She is a fellow with the German Marshall Fund's Marshall Memorial Fellowship Program.

The California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) was founded in 2003 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable farming and business practices within California’s wine industry. The CSWA works to enhance environmental stewardship, economic viability, and social responsibility across the industry. Its key initiatives include providing resources, training, and certification for wineries and vineyards to adopt sustainable practices that minimize environmental impact, enhance vineyard and winery efficiency, and ensure long-term sustainability. The organization is known for developing the California Code of Sustainable Winegrowing, a comprehensive guide that outlines practices for sustainable viticulture and winemaking.

CSWA launched Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing (CCSW) in 2010 after a three-year development period in collaboration with a broad stakeholder group. Offering third-party verification and greater transparency, certification is based on the well-established Code of Sustainable Winegrowing workbook (the Code) and includes a rigorous set of standards. A review by SCS Global Services, a leading third-party auditor, confirmed that Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing adheres to international best practices in certification. The development was led by the Sustainable Winegrowing Joint Committee, comprised of approximately 50 grower and vintner members of Wine Institute and California Association of Winegrape Growers, and sustainability certification standards experts. Since its inception and continuing today, CCSW and the Code have undergone regular revisions and updates with time allowed for peer-review, stakeholder input and public comment.

The Wine Institute is the trade association representing California’s wine industry, established in 1934. It advocates for California wineries and wine grape growers on issues related to legislation, regulations, marketing, and trade. The organization’s mission is to promote and protect the interests of the California wine industry at the local, state, and federal levels, including engaging in policy advocacy, economic development, and public relations efforts.

The Wine Institute also manages several initiatives focused on improving the wine industry’s environmental impact, most notably through its support of the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA), which helps wineries adopt sustainable practices. The organization is influential in shaping public opinion, driving industry innovation, and ensuring that California wines remain a significant player in the global market.

The California Green Medal recognizes the leadership of wineries and vineyards committed to sustainability and is presented by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA), California Association of Winegrape Growers, Wine Institute, Lodi Winegrape Commission, Napa Valley Vintners, Sonoma County Winegrowers and Vineyard Team. Four Green Medals are presented in the following categories: Leader, Environment, Community and Business.

Two of the four winners were from Sonoma County in 2024. Gloria Ferrer won the environment award, given to the vineyard or winery that best demonstrates Environmental Stewardship through maximized environmental benefits from implementing sustainable practices. Vino Farms also won the business award, given to the vineyard or winery that best demonstrates Smart Business through efficiencies, cost savings and innovation from implementing sustainable practices.

FIVS (International Federation of Wine and Spirits), founded in 1951, is a global organization representing the wine, spirits, and beer sectors on public policy issues. In 2017, it adopted a "triple bottom line of sustainability," focusing on economic, social, and environmental factors. FIVS advocates for sustainability and other global issues, offering a collective voice for the industry. It has developed common principles for sustainable winegrowing, aiming to create adaptable frameworks for regions worldwide.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Rich Franklin serves as the Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for Oak View Group, Acrisure Arena & AHL Coachella Valley Firebirds. In this role, he oversees corporate partnerships for both OVG, Acrisure, and the Coachella Valley Firebirds, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Seattle Kraken. He is also a co-host of ‘The Inches Sponsorship Sales Podcast,’ a podcast that looks at how digital is changing sports marketing diving into the struggles and issues you face in the sport and event sponsorship space.

Rich has over 30 years in Sports/Media Sales & Management, Event/Sponsor Activation Management, Fundraising, Management, and Business Ownership. He has a B.A. in Communications/Advertising from the University of Washington with additional professional certificates from the University of Michigan and Northwestern University. Rich used to own his own wine shop in Washington state, and has served as a board member of Easterseals Oregon, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing exceptional services, education, outreach, and advocacy for individuals living with autism and other disabilities.

Oakview Group (OVG), established in 2015, is a leading professional sports and real estate company specializing in the development and management of sports and entertainment venues. With headquarters in Denver and regional offices in Los Angeles, New York City, Philadelphia, London, and Toronto, OVG has a global presence. The company has developed notable venues, including Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, home to the NHL’s Seattle Kraken and the WNBA’s Seattle Storm; UBS Arena in New York, home of the NHL’s New York Islanders; Moody Center in Austin, Texas, hosting the University of Texas Longhorns basketball teams; and Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, home of the AHL’s Coachella Valley Firebirds. OVG has also expanded its influence by acquiring trade publications such as Venues Today and Pollstar and has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability signing The Climate Pledge, striving for net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Acrisure Arena, located in Greater Palm Springs, California, is a premier entertainment venue that opened in December 2022. Spanning over 300,000 square feet, the arena has a seating capacity of approximately 11,000, featuring modern suites and four premium hospitality clubs. It serves as the home of the Coachella Valley Firebirds, and includes the adjoining Berger Foundation Iceplex, which functions as a year-round community gathering space and training center for the team. In partnership with Live Nation, the world's largest event promoter, Acrisure Arena hosts a diverse array of events, including concerts, sports, and family shows, attracting over one million visitors annually.

The Silvercrest Compound at Acrisure Arena is an exclusive outdoor VIP space. It features a full bar, a variety of food options, and recreational activities including a 9-hole mini golf course, pickleball, half-court basketball, and bocce ball. The Silvercrest Compound opens 90 minutes before puck drop for Coachella Valley Firebirds games and remains accessible until the end of the second intermission.

The Coachella Valley Firebirds are a professional ice hockey team based in Coachella Valley, California. As the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the NHL's Seattle Kraken, they compete in the AHL's Pacific Division. The team began play in the 2022–23 season, with home games at Acrisure Arena.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

James MacPhail grew up just north of San Francisco in Marin County where, since the 1880s, members of his family have been pillars of the local business community. Between the dairy farm in western Sonoma County and the building materials, electronics and propane businesses in Marin County, James was raised with a strong work ethic. A passion for entrepreneurial business and a love for the land are at the center of both his personal and professional lives. James became an accomplished classical pianist and bagpiper, as well as a dedicated sportsman. He excelled at competitive swimming and water polo and today is still a daily Masters swimmer.

James attended the University of Redlands in the 1980s and later earned dual B.S. degrees in Business and Hotel Administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Encouraged by his father to blaze his own trail, James designed a custom work/study program to pursue his true passion: wine. In the mid-1990s, he began honing his craft in Sonoma County, particularly in Pinot Noir, starting as a harvest intern at Quivira Vineyards in Dry Creek Valley in 1994.

With over 28 years in the wine industry, James has produced more than 100 wines, consistently earning 90+ point scores from major publications. His wines are celebrated for their balance, varietal expression, and commitment to sustainable farming. James produces wine in small batches, by hand, using traditional old-world techniques and minimal intervention.

James founded MacPhail Family Wines in 2001, becoming part of a wave of boutique Pinot Noir wineries. Despite early success, challenges arose, including a 2008 wildfire in California’s Anderson Valley that caused smoke taint, as well as the impact of the global financial crisis. In 2011, James sold the brand to Hess Collection to focus on winemaking, continuing to produce Pinot Noir for Hess under the Sequana label until its discontinuation. As a consulting winemaker, he worked with over 70 vineyard sites across California for brands such as The Calling, Sangiacomo, We Know Jack, and his own Tongue Dancer Wines, co-founded with his wife, Kerry, in 2012. In 2023, they re-acquired MacPhail Family Wines from Hess.

James' expertise spans multiple wine regions, including Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino, Oregon, and Santa Barbara. Throughout his career, he has crafted wines from renowned regions such as the Russian River Valley, Green Valley, Sta. Rita Hills, and Oakville. His wines have garnered numerous accolades, including coverage on the cover of Wine Spectator (December 2006), a spot in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 (2017), and Wine Enthusiast Top 100 selections in 2018 and 2022. He has also earned numerous "Cellar Selection" and "Editor's Choice" honors over two decades.

The Calling Wine

The Calling sources premium fruit from top vineyards, using classic winemaking techniques. The Chardonnays are barrel-fermented in French oak with wild yeasts, undergo full malolactic fermentation, and age sur lie for 11-12 months. Red wines ferment with wild yeasts, undergo extended maceration, and age in a mix of French, Eastern European, and American oak, tailored to each varietal.

Sangiacomo Family Wines

Sangiacomo Wines is a family-owned winery known for high-quality, single-vineyard wines from Sonoma County’s top vineyards. Specializing in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon, the winery emphasizes sustainability and meticulous vineyard management, producing wines with balance, elegance, and complexity.

Tongue Dancer Wines

Founded by James and Kerry MacPhail in 2012, Tongue Dancer Wines focuses on small-scale production of exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The winery emphasizes quality and creativity, crafting wines with memorable taste and texture, and exploring the full potential of these grapes.

We Know Jack!

We Know Jack! produces high-quality, small-lot wines from Sonoma’s Rockpile AVA, specializing in Zinfandel and other bold varietals. With James MacPhail as the consulting winemaker, the winery emphasizes sustainable farming and wines that showcase the rugged terroir with bold, expressive styles.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Kylie Dutton, the middle daughter of Joe and Tracy Dutton, with an adventurous spirit, is reflected in her pursuit of making the best wines possible from her family’s vineyards. Kylie developed a passion for winemaking early on. Surrounded by the aromas of wine and the taste of ripe fruit from the vines, Kylie has always had a deep connection to the land. This early exposure cultivated her link to the world of wine. Kylie pursued her academic interests by earning a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from The University of Arizona, and a certificate in Agriculture Leadership and Innovation. After graduation, she chose to return to her roots at Dutton Estate Winery, driven by her lifelong passion for wine.

Kylie began her professional journey in the cellar, working closely with the winery’s consulting winemaker, Bobby Donnell, as a Harvest Coordinator for three years. She further broadened her experience by interning for a harvest in New Zealand and obtained a Winemaking Certificate from UC Davis and returned to Dutton Estate Winery as Assistant Winemaker for another three years. Today, Kylie serves as the Vice President of Winemaking and Production at Dutton Estate Winery. Kylie works alongside her sister, Kyndall, and together they oversee the winery’s daily operations. They deeply value their agricultural heritage, dedicating themselves to caring for the land and producing outstanding wines.

Dutton Estate:

Dutton Estate Winery is a family-owned and operated winery nestled in the Green Valley AVA of Sonoma County's Russian River Valley. Founded by Joe and Tracy Dutton in 1995, the winery is renowned for producing a diverse range of high-quality wines.

Today, Dutton Estate Winery is led by the sixth generation of Dutton women and sisters, Kyndall Dutton, our winemaker, Kylie Dutton, and Karmen Dutton (who recently returned to school). The “Sisters” are mentored by the stewardship of their parents, Joe and Tracy, with the steadfast mission to pursue forward with the legacy of agriculture and winemaking, taking immense pride in passing on our agricultural traditions and crafting wine from our nurtured land to ensure sustainability for our next Dutton generation. Together, the family not only produces 5,000 cases of wine annually but also provides custom crush services for several premium wineries in Sonoma and Napa.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Born in Tokyo, Akiko Freeman first came to the United States in 1985 as an exchange student. Shortly after she met Ken Freeman, her now husband and partner in Freeman Vineyard & Winery. Today she has become a celebrated winemaker at Freeman Vineyard & Winery in Sonoma County. Akiko’s passion for wine was inspired by her grandfather, a professor at Tokyo University, who introduced her to the elegance of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Akiko’s artistic sensibilities were shaped by her grandmother, a master of Kodo, the Japanese art of appreciating fragrance. This tradition of “listening to scents” profoundly influences her approach to winemaking, where she seeks to tell the story of the land and the vintage through each bottle.

After earning her master’s degree in Italian Renaissance art history from Stanford in the mid-1990s, Akiko traveled throughout Europe and as far as South Africa to explore the great winemaking regions of the world. She and her husband, Ken Freeman, established Freeman Vineyard & Winery in 2001, driven by a shared dream of crafting expressive cool-climate wines.

Under the mentorship of acclaimed winemaker Ed Kurtzman, Akiko honed her craft and assumed full responsibility for winemaking in 2010. She now oversees every aspect of Freeman’s production, from organic vineyard farming—including the estate’s Gloria and Yu-ki vineyards—to blending and bottling. Her refined palate and vision have elevated Freeman wines to exemplify the best of New World Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Freeman Vineyard & Winery

Freeman Vineyard & Winery was founded by Ken and Akiko Freeman in 2001, but the seed was planted 16 years earlier. In 1985, while crewing a yacht on its way to the Caribbean, Ken was forced by Hurricane Gloria to head to port near his hometown of Scarsdale, N.Y., where a friend happened to be hosting a party. This was where Ken saw Akiko, newly arrived in the United States from Japan, and their love story began.

While the couple was initially brought together by a hurricane, they were also bound by a shared passion for refined, cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Driven by the firm belief that California is capable of producing wines every bit as complex and compelling as those of Burgundy, they explored more than 300 properties before choosing a site on which to build their dream. Their search ultimately led them to western Sonoma County, with its steep hillside terrain and cooling ocean breezes.

From the first vintage, the Freeman style went against convention. While others pushed the limits of ripeness, Akiko and consulting winemaker Ed Kurtzman sought balance and refinement. Today, the winery is defined by those same pursuits, with Akiko at the helm as winemaker, and Freeman is recognized internationally as one of California's most acclaimed small producers.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Winemaker Randall Watkins grew up on a vineyard located in the foothills of Taylor Mountain in Sonoma County. His father was a small-scale winemaker, creating rustic Zinfandel and crisp Chardonnay in a barn on their property with the help of friends who were paid in wine. Beginning when he was only 10 years old, Randall participated in the annual harvest and grape crush, and as he grew older, he continued to learn about farming and fermentation from his father.

In 1993, Watkins received a bachelor's degree in sociology and management from the University of California, Davis. After a brief stint working for an environmental consultant in San Francisco, Watkins again felt the call of the wine country. He continued his hands-on winemaking training, working in the cellars and labs of Buena Vista Winery and Hartford Family Winery in Sonoma County, as supervisor of red wine fermentations at Carmen Vineyards in Chile, and as assistant winemaker at S. Anderson Vineyards in Napa. Watkins then returned to UC Davis, where he rounded out his practical knowledge by completing a master's degree in enology in 1999. Watkins went on to produce stellar wines over the next 7 years as winemaker and General Manager for Carmenet Winery and Moon Mountain Vineyard before joining Laurel Glen Vineyard in 2011. Randall is Laurel Glens winemaker currently, and makes wine for his family brand Watkins Family Wines.

Throughout his winemaking experience, Watkins found that grapes from hillside vineyards produced red wines of incredible richness, depth, and concentration. After making Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards in Sonoma, Rutherford, Stags Leap, Red Hills, Mendocino, Monterrey, and Chile, Watkins discovered that his favorite big red wines were consistently from vineyards located in the Mayacamas Mountains.

Laurel Glen uses grapes from their estate vineyard in the Sonoma Mountain AVA. It was originally planted to mixed red varietals by German Immigrants at the end of the 19th century, and replanted to Cabernet Sauvignon in 1968 by Carmen Taylor, just prior to the modern proliferation of vineyards in California. In 1977, Ms. Taylor sold the property to Patrick Campbell (Laurel Glen founder), who would become one of Northern California’s winemaking pioneers and a leading industry figure. Campbell took cuttings from the three acres of Cabernet vines planted by Taylor to develop the 14 acres comprising our vineyard today.

Shortly after Patrick Campbell purchased the vineyard in 1977, he started to expand it. He took cuttings from the existing Cabernet Sauvignon vines, grafted them to St. George rootstock and increased his Cabernet vineyard from three acres to fourteen. Eventually, this became the Laurel Glen clone which was certified as a unique clone by the University of California at Davis. Today, the vineyard is planted exclusively to this clone of Cabernet Sauvignon, uniquely well suited to the cooler conditions of the Sonoma Mountain AVA.

Laurel Glen Vineyard was purchased by the current ownership in 2011, a small group of wine lovers led by industry veteran Bettina Sichel. Bettina immediately appointed viticulturalist Phil Coturri to manage the vineyard. A true pioneer and leader in organic and biodynamic farming in California, Coturri started using exclusively organic farming practices in 2011. Laurel Glen Vineyard received certification from CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) in 2014. They use minimal inputs and plant numerous cover crops every year to enhance biodiversity, minimize soil erosion, control weeds, fertilize the soil without chemical inputs, and improve the structure and microbial activity of the soil.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Medlock Ames was founded by college best friends Chris Medlock James and Ames Morison. After sharing a love for wine as roommates in college and later as roommates in New York City, they decided to pack their bags and move to California to join the wine industry. Medlock Ames consists of two properties: the Historic Healdsburg Tasting Room, situated at the intersection of Route 128 and Alexander Valley Road, and the Winery & Vineyard, located at Bell Mountain on Chalk Hill Road.

After exploring over 100 locations, they discovered Bell Mountain Ranch located at the southern tip of Alexander Valley, overlapping the Russian River Valley where several dozen acres of Merlot vines were sitting unmanaged. The beauty of Bell Mountain spoke to them and Medlock Ames was born. That was 1998 and the deep commitment to preserving Bell Mountain and being a vocal supporter for the kind of light-touch farming practices that being organic means has been a part of their values ever since.

Bell Mountain Ranch spans 338 acres along Chalk Hill Road, with 44 acres planted to vines. The ranch also features 650 olive trees, an orchard, and a garden for seasonal vegetables and flowers, embodying a dedication to land preservation since day one. A wildlife corridor threads through the vineyards, guiding animals safely through the property and into the adjacent 3,000-acre Pepperwood Preserve wildlife sanctuary.

Medlock Ames is deeply committed to sustainability, using innovative alternatives to pesticides, harnessing solar power for their winery and offices, and digitizing HR, finance, and tasting room operations to eliminate paper use. They partner with suppliers for electronic invoicing, reducing their carbon footprint, and maintain a wildlife corridor to support local wildlife. In collaboration with Pepperwood Preserve, they work to identify and protect the distinct ecosystems on their Bell Mountain Ranch property. The winery is functional and elegant, with caves dug into the ground to maximize natural insulation (cellar temperature is between 55°F–65°F), solar arrays that supply electricity, and an array of creative experiences, like their Immersive Sound Experience.

Last November, Medlock Ames Winery became one of a select few wineries worldwide to receive Regenerative Organic Certification, founded by the creators of Patagonia. With a philosophy of minimal intervention and traditional techniques, we craft wines exclusively from our own vines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Sparkling, Merlot, Chardonnay, Rosé, Dessert Wine, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They produce just a few hundred cases of most wines and release them only once ready to drink.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

Erik Miller is the founder and winemaker of Kokomo Winery, located in Sonoma County's Dry Creek Valley. Originally from Indiana, Miller attended Purdue University, where he earned a degree in business. After briefly working in financial planning, he realized the career lacked the excitement he sought. His long-time passion for wine and the culinary world led him to pursue a career in winemaking.

Kokomo is perched in Dry Creek Valley in Healdsburg, amidst the 12 acres of prime benchland vineyards of Timber Crest Farms. Erik started the winery in 2004, naming it after his hometown of Kokomo, IN, and decided on a Coastal Cypress Tree as a logo to signify his move out west. Kokomo currently produces over a dozen different varietals and several single vineyards designates which are farmed by his partner in the winery, grower Randy Peters. Kokomo Winery focuses their terrior-driven wines on the three distinctive appellations of Sonoma County - Russian River, Dry Creek & Alexander Valleys. Kokomo Winery has been making its mark in Sonoma County, unfailingly earning 90+ ratings, Best of Class and Gold Medals across all varietals.

Erik would then go onto establish Breaking Bread Winery in 2018 as a creative outlet fueled by his passion for simple, natural and enjoyable wines. The winery is dedicated to crafting natural wines through sustainable and organic farming practices, employing whole-cluster fermentation and utilizing native yeasts and bacteria.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!

In this episode, they dive into the rich history of Puccioni Vineyards with Glenn Proctor, the great-grandson of Italian immigrant Angelo Puccioni, and Laurie Proctor, his wife and business partner. Angelo arrived in the U.S. in 1889 and, after working at the Italian Swiss Colony, planted his roots in Dry Creek Valley, where he established Puccioni Ranch in 1904. Over seven years of hard work, Angelo and his family cleared forty acres by mule, building the foundation of a legacy that would continue for generations. Glenn shares stories of his own connection to the vineyard, including learning to plow with a mule at just four years old—continuing a family tradition that lasted until 1968. Today, Glenn and Laurie carry on the legacy, farming old vine Zinfandel and Petite Sirah and crafting Puccioni Vineyard wines that reflect the vineyard's storied past. The Proctors share a personal touch, recounting how they met through an online love story, along with insights into their careers and education. Listen in to discover how generations of tradition, from sacramental wine during Prohibition to modern-day viticulture, have shaped Puccioni Vineyards into a symbol of Sonoma County's rich agricultural history. And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks.

Region is a unique and innovative wine bar concept located in both Sebastopol & San Luis Obispo. Founded by Kerry & Johan in 2020 in the heart of the Barlow Sebastopol, Region. was the first of its kind in Sonoma County. The second location opened in 2022 at the Hotel San Luis Obispo, a property owned by the Piazza Hospitality Group, which owns properties in Sonoma County as well. Region. uniquely offers a self-serve model with state-of-the-art WineStation machines, which pour over 50 hand-selected small production wines from 35+ Sonoma County wine producers. Each week, they host a winery takeover event, where one of their partnering wineries offers a special flight, winemaker appearances & curated food pairings. In addition to its focus on supporting small production wineries, Region. is committed to sustainability, donating 1% of its sales to the environmental organization 1% for the Planet.

Sampl., founded in 2022 by Kerry & Johan, is a subscription-based wine tasting club emerged from their success with Region. Every quarter, Sampl takes you to a different winemaking region, delivering seven 100ml glasses of curated wines from the best local producers in eco-friendly, reusable packaging directly to your home. This model allows consumers to explore a variety of wines without committing to a full bottle, enabling smaller wineries to thrive in the by-the-glass market.

And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!