There's one thing to know about Alfaro Family Vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains. You are guaranteed great wine and a good time. This family-owned winery is in Corralitos, at the southern end of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA. It's a mecca for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir lovers, but at Alfaro, you'll also find Syrah, Merlot, and yes, Gruner Veltliner, that crisp and aromatic white wine from Austria that is growing in popularity here. In fact, the Alfaros are leaders in Gruner, planting the first vineyard within the appellation.

Richard and Mary Kay founded the winery after beginning to plant their 56-acre vineyard. Now son Ryan steps into the winemaking role, with Richard focusing more on the grape growing. Listen along and meet this super fun, laid back yet serious winemaker and find out why we just love Alfaro wines! 

What makes a great vineyard great? Laura Catena, of Argentina's leading Catena Zapata Winery and the Catena Institute, set out on a mission to discover what the world's best wines have in common. Instead of telling these vineyard stories the traditional, boring way, Laura takes Gold in the Vineyards readers through an illustrated, colorful, fun and compelling journey around the world, weaving in tales of love, war, betrayal, sibling rivalry, royalty and more, that keep you turning the page to find out what happens next.

Tune in to meet Laura - a woman who balances working with her family's Argentine winery and being an ER doctor in San Francisco -  and hear the story of how the Catenas also found vinous gold in Mendoza's highest altitudes at the foot of the majestic Andes Mountains.

On this special edition of Sip Sip Hooray! we hear the incredible stories of bravery, heroism and spirit from vintners most impacted by the August 2020 CZU Lightning Complex fires. You will be riveted by their stories, but you'll also find hope as they assess the aftermath and the path forward. Equally important, we share the best ways you can help the recovery efforts now. Read more.