"The Good Stuff"

In episode 109 of “The Good Stuff,” hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse sit down with Aaron Piotter, Winemaker at Quivira Vineyards, whose deep Sonoma roots and lifelong connection to the land have shaped his thoughtful approach to winemaking

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.

In episode 108 of "The Good Stuff" hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse sit down with Jenifer Freebairn, VP of Marketing and Sales at Lasseter Family Winery, whose non-traditional path into wine has become a story of passion, creativity, and purpose. 

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. 

In this episode of "The Good Stuff" presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse talk to Joe Pozzi, lifelong Sonoma County rancher, and owner of Pozzi Ranch. 

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. 

In this episode of "The Good Stuff" presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse talk to Heidi Bridenhagen, Director of Winemaking at MacRostie Winery.

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. 

In this episode of "The Good Stuff" presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse talk to Carolyn Bordes, founder of Bordes Wines in Sonoma  

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. 

In this episode of "The Good Stuff" presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse talk to Erica Larson, COO of Larson Family Winery, and Hayden Puryear, DTC Manager at Larson Family Wines.

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.

In this episode of "The Good Stuff" presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse talk to John Hamel, Winemaker and Director of Winegrowing at Hamel Family Wines. 

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. 

In this episode of "The Good Stuff" presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse talk to Matt Taylor, Winemaker at Mascarin Family Wines.

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.

In this episode of “The Good Stuff” presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse sit down with Shelly Rafanelli, winemaker at A. Rafanelli Winery in Dry Creek Valley.

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.

In this episode of "The Good Stuff" presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse talk to Mike Sullivan, winemaker and Co-owner of Benovia Vineyards. 

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.