The wine industry has an allure that pulls people in—often permanently trapping them with the beautiful surroundings, lifestyle, fast-paced varied roles at wineries, and the opportunities to meet people from around the world. In the coming year, Along the Wine Road will explore the stories of people who had non-winery careers before finding their passion […]

You Sold Fireworks?! Your were a Pyro?! John Pepe – Winemaker at Pech Merle Winery Seems like every kid loves fireworks. Especially the ones you can light yourself – firecrackers, bottle rockets and cherry bombs. Every mom hates them because you are either going to blow your hand off or burn the house down! Really […]

When you visit the Wine Road, do you ever wonder what are some of the winemakers’ favorite haunts? Where do they like to eat, listen to music, watch the sunset, or take out of town guests? You’re about to find out about five favorites from five local winemakers. Before they share their favorites, here is […]

What do ice skating, cooking, world traveling & teaching have in common?  Michael Westrick Winemaker at Notre Vue Estate Winery How many winemakers do you know that have ice-skated in Canada, four states in the US, Turkey, Denmark and Thailand? I have! Maybe, because I was born in Toronto, I have a Canadian ice-skating gene […]

Lawyer takes path back to his roots in Sonoma County. Bill Nachbaur Co-Owner ACORN Winery/Alegria Vineyards My road to the Wine Road brought me back to my roots — back to 1868, when great-great grandparents on both sides of the family settled in Sonoma County. My dad’s great-great grandparents settled in Petaluma, while great-great grandparents on my […]

Winter Morning Reflections in Dry Creek Valley Written by Bill Frick of Frick Winery   White frost blankets the vineyards. Plumes of smoke rise from the neighbor’s chimney. Winter is the reset button for a new vintage growing season. It is time to reflect, do a little pruning and watch as the grapevines sleep deeply. […]