My husband – He is also a winemaker and deep down, his opinion matters the most to me. My grandfather – He passed away when I was 12, so I’d love to show him what I have done in my adult life. Jane Austen – I think she would have even more amazing commentary on human interactions after a glass (or two) of wine!

Craig Williams has had a big influence on me. He was a consultant/mentor for me when I first took over as winemaker at Far Niente. I appreciate that he always challenged me in our discussions – challenging me to be curious and to ask why. Challenging me to let go sometimes and just ask, “But does it taste good?”

My first harvest in Napa Valley was in 2005 at Far Niente. I had just been hired as an Enologist. I remember feeling like I was drinking out of a fire hose! There was so much to learn and take in. Plus it was a huge harvest. It felt like it would never end; the grapes just kept coming! My learning curve was steep that year.

I really love Chardonnay and lobster.

While working on a degree in Biology, I took on a job as a features writer for the UC Davis Aggie (school newspaper) and wrote an article about the V&E department. I quickly discovered that I was not reporter material, but I did discover a career path that would allow me to use both my science skills and my liberal arts interests.

During college, I went to summer school in England where I studied local history and Shakespeare!

I think cultivating excellence starts with people. I’m proud that our team really works together towards a common goal. I think it is important to invest in and value your crew. I always try to explain why we do what we do and consider their suggestions for how to do things better. We all succeed together.

I would probably be working in a bookstore. I love to read!

My grandmother’s perfume.

Curiosity is really important to me. In my winemaking, I’m always asking myself why and how. Why does this taste/smell like this? How did we do that? How can we make it better? I try to channel that into making wines that have layers and interest and might spark some curiosity when tasting it.

It isn’t really one memory, but I especially cherish early morning sampling in the vineyards during harvest. The crisp air, the quiet, the taste of cold sweet grapes. Sometimes a low layer of fog. It’s pretty magical.