Tag Archives: Sonoma vintner

Adonna Wines Makes Its California Debut This Spring, Celebrating Heritage, Resilience, and the Art of the Moment

Japanese American biochemist-turned-vintner Donna Kato opens her spring allotment on March 20 - the first day of spring with a vision rooted in the Japanese philosophy of Ichigo Ichie

HEALDSBURG, Calif., March 20, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — On March 20, the first day of spring, Adonna Wines officially opens its spring allotment to the California market. Founded by Donna Kato, a Japanese American biochemist who left the world of science to tend the land and make wine of uncommon elegance, Adonna Wines is an allotment-only label available exclusively to mailing list members. The spring release includes the 2023 Pinot Noir, the 2024 White Pinot Noir, and the 2024 Chardonnay — each a reflection of a vineyard, and a founder, devoted to beauty, intention, and the irreplaceable nature of each moment.

Photo caption: Donna Kato, Proprietor Adonna Wines in the Canfield Vineyard, Russian River Valley, CA.

A SPRING RELEASE ROOTED IN MEANING

The timing of Adonna’s spring launch is no coincidence. March 20 carries resonance for Donna Kato both as the vernal equinox — a season of awakening and renewal — and as an echo of the Japanese tradition of hanami, the centuries-old custom of gathering beneath cherry blossoms as they bloom and fall, transient and luminous. At the heart of Adonna’s philosophy is the Japanese concept of Ichigo Ichie— “one time, one meeting” — a reminder that every shared moment is singular and will not come again, embedded in the wines, the label, and the way Donna approaches her craft.

“I wanted the wines to carry that feeling,” says Kato. “That a glass poured with the people you love is something that can never be exactly replicated.”

FROM BIOCHEMIST TO VINTNER: LIVING THE DREAM

Donna Kato’s path to wine was not a straight line — it was a life deliberately reimagined. A trained biochemist, Kato brought her analytical rigor, her reverence for nature, and a family legacy of farming — rooted in a great-grandfather who farmed peaches— to bear on one of California’s most treasured wine regions: the Russian River Valley. Her experience with breast cancer deepened her commitment to living with presence and purpose — the founding of Adonna Wines is, in every sense, the embodiment of that resolve. Kato holds a master’s degree in Viticulture & Enology from UC Davis, bringing scientific rigor alongside personal conviction to every vintage.

In December 2025, Forbes featured Kato in a profile by Chelsea Davis titled “From Heritage to Harvest: Japanese American Winemaker Donna Kato Debuts Adonna Wines.” The April 2026 issue of The Tasting Panel Magazine will profile Kato in a feature called “Women Who Raise the Bar in Wine,” in which Publisher Meridith May awards the 2023 Adonna Pinot Noir a score of 95 points. Kato also earned a Silver Medal at the prestigious San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition in March 2026 for its 2023 Russian River Pinot Noir.

CANFIELD VINEYARD: REGENERATIVE FARMING IN THE RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY

The backbone of Adonna Wines is Canfield Vineyard, a five-clone, 100% Pinot Noir estate in the southern reaches of the Russian River Valley, influenced by the Petaluma Gap and the Pacific Ocean — one of the coolest and most distinctive sites in the appellation. Originally planted in 2009 under the stewardship of Judy Jordan of J Vineyards, the vines now belong to Donna Kato, who is grafting two acres to Chardonnay this year as her vineyard program evolves.

Upon acquiring the vineyard, Donna began a comprehensive restoration program grounded in regenerative farming principles — an effort that has become central to Adonna’s identity. The vineyard is Certified California Sustainable through the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.

At Canfield, 40 Navajo sheep graze the cover crop under the watch of vineyard manager Cody Garzini and a Maremma sheepdog named Honey, who keeps a devoted daily vigil over the flock. The wines from Canfield are crafted by talented winemaker Ashley Holland, who trained under the legendary Bob Cabral at Three Sticks Wines. Adonna also sources Pinot Noir from Eden Vineyard and Chardonnay from the esteemed Martaella Vineyard.

THE WINES

The spring 2026 allotment features three wines, available March 20 – May 1:

2023 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley | $85 | 95 Points, Tasting Panel Magazine

2024 White Pinot Noir, Canfield Vineyard, Russian River Valley | $65

2024 Chardonnay, Martaella Vineyard, Russian River Valley | $85

Members of the Allotment List may purchase up to six bottles total — two of each wine with a spring and fall offering. Wines are available exclusively in California, with expansion to other markets planned. In fall 2026, Adonna will release the first Estate Pinot Noir from Canfield Vineyard. To join the allotment list, visit adonnawines.com.

A COMMITMENT TO THE ARTS, CULINARY EXCELLENCE, AND COMMUNITY

From the outset, Adonna Wines has expressed itself through cultural engagement as much as viticulture. Kato collaborated with celebrated Japanese calligraphy and performance artist Aoi Yamaguchi, whose work — described by the New York Times as “transcendent” — animates the brand’s visual language. On March 20, Adonna serves as a Sponsor of the Fork2Film Festival in St.Helena, a fitting celebration as the spring allotment opens. Adonna has also supported the San Francisco Symphony’s Lunar New Year Concert (February 28) and the James Beard Foundation Taste America Bay Area event (March 1) — underscoring Kato’s commitment to excellence in both the culinary and cultural worlds.

ABOUT ADONNA WINES

Adonna Wines is a small-production, allotment-only label founded by Donna Kato, a Japanese American biochemist-turned-vintner. Rooted in the Certified Sustainable Canfield Vineyard in the Russian River Valley, Adonna produces Pinot Noir, White Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay of refined elegance and deep site expression. The brand name is drawn from the Latin donna — “a lady” — woven together with founder Donna Kato’s own name, and its wines are available exclusively to members of the Adonna Allotment List. Wines are released twice yearly, in spring and fall, and are currently available in California only. For more information or to join the mailing list, visit https://www.adonnawines.com/. Follow on Instagram @adonnawines

MEDIA CONTACTS

Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET
kcharles@charlescomm.com

Sofia Spieler
sofia@charlescomm.com

Charles Communications Associates
www.charlescomm.com

NEWS SOURCE: Adonna Wines

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Adonna Wines), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/adonna-wines-makes-its-california-debut-this-spring-celebrating-heritage-resilience-and-the-art-of-the-moment/

Merriam Vineyards Celebrates Earth Day 2025 With Quarter-Century Legacy of Environmental Stewardship

Family's Multi-Generational Commitment to Land Conservation Highlighted During 25th Anniversary Year

HEALDSBURG, Calif., April 10, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — As the world marks the 55th annual Earth Day, Merriam Vineyards showcases its 25-year journey of sustainable winegrowing in the Russian River Valley AVA, where environmental stewardship has been woven into the fabric of their operation since inception. The winery’s anniversary year coincides with this global celebration of environmental action, highlighting how their conservation practices are deeply rooted in family traditions predating the vineyard’s establishment.

Image caption: (L to R) William Weese, Diana Merriam, Peter Merriam, Evan Merriam. Photo credit Alexander Rubin.

“Our commitment to the land isn’t just a business decision—it’s a family philosophy spanning generations,” explains Peter Merriam, who, along with his wife Diana, founded the winery in 2000. “Growing up in Maine, I learned organic farming methods from my father, spent countless hours fly fishing in our watersheds, and developed a deep appreciation for nature. These early experiences shaped our approach to viticulture long before sustainability became an industry buzzword.”

This Earth Day, Merriam Vineyards celebrates significant environmental milestones achieved across its three distinct estate properties totaling 45 acres. The winery recently completed organic certification for its production facility through CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers), complementing the organic certification held by its Los Amigos Estate since 2012. Additionally, the Eastside Estate Vineyard earned Fish Friendly Farming certification in December 2024, recognizing the winery’s efforts to protect the Mark West Creek watershed and critical habitats for steelhead trout and coho salmon.

“Our environmental practices aren’t compartmentalized—they form a comprehensive ecosystem approach,” notes Estate Manager Evan Merriam, representing the next generation of family leadership. “From our Babydoll sheep providing natural vineyard management to our cattle grazing for fire protection, we’re implementing solutions that honor the interconnectedness of all life on our estate.”

Diana Merriam’s Greek heritage has further influenced the property’s Mediterranean-inspired design and ecological philosophy. “Mediterranean culture has always emphasized living in harmony with the natural world,” she explains. “Our landscape redesign, completed with Munden Fry Landscape Associates, creates outdoor spaces that connect visitors directly with our vineyards and natural surroundings, emphasizing the relationship between sustainable farming and exceptional wines.”

The winery’s Earth Day initiatives build upon a foundation of environmental practices that include:

Comprehensive watershed protection strategies at the Eastside Estate, particularly for the Mark West Creek tributary of the Russian River
Introduction of Babydoll sheep for natural vineyard management, reducing reliance on machinery and improving soil health
Cattle grazing for range management and fire protection on outlying hills
Progression toward no-till farming methods to minimize carbon emissions
Installation of hedgerows to prevent erosion along riparian corridors
Rigorous organic and sustainable certifications across all properties, including CCOF, CCSW (Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing), and Sonoma Sustainable designations
Using 100% of the wastewater at the winery as part of its water reclamation efforts

William Weese, Merriam’s winemaker, sees direct connections between these environmental practices and wine quality, influenced by his formative training under renowned Chilean organic pioneer Alvaro Espinoza. “Working with Alvaro in Chile shaped my understanding of how organic farming creates vineyard resilience and wine authenticity,” Weese notes. “Our minimal intervention approach in the vineyard translates to minimal intervention in the cellar. By nurturing healthy soils and ecosystems the way Alvaro taught, we’re able to produce wines that genuinely express the terroir of this special place, with vibrant natural acidity and balanced flavors that don’t require manipulation.”

“As we mark both Earth Day and our 25th anniversary, we’re looking forward to the next quarter-century of environmental stewardship,” Peter Merriam reflects. “The work we do today—enhancing soil health, protecting watersheds, reducing our carbon footprint—creates a legacy for future generations. That’s always been the heart of our mission at Merriam Vineyards.”

About Merriam Vineyards:

Established in 2000 in Sonoma, CA’s Russian River AVA by husband-and-wife Peter and Diana Merriam, Merriam Vineyards specializes in Bordeaux and Burgundy varieties and was born from the couple’s love of Old-World wines and extensive European travels. Recognizing the immense potential for producing distinctive single-vineyard wines in Sonoma, the Merriam’s acquired what would become known as the Windacre Vineyard in 2000, adding Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Malbec plantings beyond its existing Merlot vines and establishing the quality of Bordeaux varieties in a region primarily known for cool-climate wines.

The couple expanded its estate into Burgundian varieties with the planting of its Los Amigos property in 2008 and in 2022, purchased the Eastside Estate, with a focus on cool-climate Pinot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The winery’s rigorous, decades-long commitment to sustainable viticulture and production resulted in the prestigious CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) certification for its Los Amigos estate (2012) and winery (2023), as well as CCSW (Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing) certification for its Eastside Estate and Windacre vineyard. Son Evan Merriam represents the Merriam’s next generation as estate manager.

Learn more: https://www.merriamvineyards.com/

For interviews, images, or more information, contact Kimberly Noelle Charles of Charles Communications Associates at kcharles@charlescomm.com or 415-701-9463.

NEWS SOURCE: Merriam Vineyards

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Merriam Vineyards), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/merriam-vineyards-celebrates-earth-day-2025-with-quarter-century-legacy-of-environmental-stewardship/

Merriam Vineyards declares 2023 a ‘first class’ vintage – concludes inaugural harvest in newly California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) Certified Winery

SONOMA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Merriam Vineyards, located in California's Russian River AVA, wrapped up the 2023 harvest with much to celebrate. Winemaker William Weese states that this year is poised to produce a "great and first-class vintage" for Merriam's award-winning cool-climate varieties, especially its Pinot Noir. Throughout Sonoma County and many AVAs within California, the 2023 vintage is already anticipated to be one of the best in decades.

"Being a cooler year with long hangtime was extremely beneficial," Weese says. "We were getting phenolic ripeness on fruit without having to deal with high Brix. The acid was there, too. I never felt like I needed to pick or press a wine off earlier than I wanted to, to make room for the next wine, so all the wines we made got all the attention they deserved." Weese adds that the excellent conditions also resulted in minimal intervention in winemaking, resulting in a direct expression of the vineyard and a chance for the "fruit to speak for itself."

This harvest marks the first for Merriam as a fully CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers)-certified winery, following decades of commitment to organic and sustainable practices in their vineyards and beyond. Founded in 2000 by husband-and-wife Peter and Diana Merriam and focusing on estate-grown Bordeaux and Burgundy varieties, Merriam previously achieved CCOF vineyard certification for its Los Amigos estate property in 2012. Purchased in 2022, the Eastside estate is currently certified sustainable through the CSWA California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance and the Windacre vineyard-

the first vineyard purchased by the Merriams in 2000-is currently certified sustainable with the Sonoma Sustainable designation. The 2023 vintage of several vineyard designates from the Los Amigos property, named after three generations of Merriam women including Diana's Pinot Noir, Danielle's Fumé Blanc, and Evanthea's Chardonnay, will include "made with organic grapes" on the label.

"The CCOF certification has been a nice progression through our sustainable journey," says Peter, adding that they "immediately" began pursuing certification after founding the winery. "Its arduous nature means we must abide by strict rules and materials, and everything must be planned, proactive and approved. On the winery side, that includes strict regulations inside the facilities such as keeping the organic materials isolated, triple rinsed, sanitized, and sterilized, and documenting everything along the way."

"My family has been farming organically since 2012 because we believe it produces world-class wines, and with this newest certification we are able to continue to educate consumers on the quality that comes from holding ourselves to higher standards and practices," adds estate manager Evan Merriam.

An extension of its ongoing commitment to sustainable farming, the winery also introduced 800 Babydoll sheep into the estate vineyards last spring to mow down clover and other cover crop. Too small to damage vines, the sheep improve vineyard soil health by providing natural fertilizer and reducing the need for heavy machinery, which means less soil compaction and improved soil fertility and structure. Merriam also has 25 head of cattle grazing the outlying hills above the vineyard for range management and fire protection.

Outdoor design expansion of its 21-acre estate has been an additional project for Merriam this year, in partnership with Munden Fry Landscape Associates (MFLA). The project elevates guest experience while respecting and showcasing the property's natural environs. "A connection to the vineyard and the sustainable farming practices provided the foundation for the renovations of the tasting terrace, new Garden Rooms and a reorientation of the visitors experience when entering the property," says MFLA Partner James Munden.

Begun in 2021, the plan includes a row of antique olive trees with a rich underplanting of ornamental grasses, leading visitors to the various tasting areas. Hedges create green walls defining the outdoor tasting rooms under a bosque of plane trees for shade from the summer heat. A stone water wall feature mitigates sound from nearby Hwy 101 and encloses one side of the Tasting Terrace. Creating a more enjoyable and immersive winery experience aligns with the Merriam family's early vision of bringing visitors outside, emphasizing the vineyards, views and natural habitats that are the focus of the winery's environmentally progressive efforts.

About CCOF:

Founded in 1973, the non-profit CCOF is a leader in the organic agricultural movement and specializes in education, advocacy, promotion and certification for California farms, livestock, operations, retailers, restaurants and more. The CCOF is globally recognized for its comprehensive and strict standards and is USDA accredited. The rigorous certification process for wineries includes review of soil quality, pest and weed control, the use of input materials and animal husbandry, among other focuses. For more information visit https://www.ccof.org/page/about-ccof.

About MFLA:

Munden Fry Landscape Associates is a landscape and urban design studio established in 1990 that blurs the boundaries between land, architecture and art. Led by British transplant, James Munden and original studio founder, Marta Fry, MFLA strives to create vibrant, enduring, and compelling environments that consider both the built & natural ecologies equally. With an established reputation for delivering high quality private and public works across a diverse portfolio, James and Marta share a common-sense approach. The result is environmentally grounded designs with integrity, substance, and an inherent sense of timelessness. For more information, visit https://mflastudio.com/ or contact Amber Munden at ambermunden@mflasf.com.

About Merriam Vineyards:

Established in 2000 in Sonoma, CA's Russian River AVA by husband-and-wife Peter and Diana Merriam, Merriam Vineyards specializes in Bordeaux and Burgundy varieties and was born from the couple's love of Old World wines and extensive European travels. Recognizing the immense potential for producing distinctive single-vineyard wines in Sonoma, the Merriam's acquired what would become known as the Windacre Vineyard in 2000, adding Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Malbec plantings beyond its existing Merlot vines and establishing the quality of Bordeaux varieties in a region primarily known for cool-climate wines.

The couple expanded its estate into Burgundian varieties with the acquisition of its Los Amigos property in 2009 and in 2022, purchased the hillside Eastside Estate, with a focus on core col-climate Pinot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The winery's rigorous, decades-long commitment to sustainable viticulture and production resulted in the prestigious CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) certification for its Los Amigos estate (2012) and winery (2023), as well as CCSW (Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing) certification for its Windacre property and Sonoma Sustainable for its Eastside Estate. Son Evan Merriam represents the Merriam's next generation as estate manager.

For more information about Merriam Vineyards, visit https://www.merriamvineyards.com/ or on Instagram @merriamvineyards.

Merriam Vineyards, located in California's Russian River AVA, wrapped up the 2023 harvest with much to celebrate. Winemaker William Weese states that this year is poised to produce a "great and first-class vintage" for Merriam's award-winning cool-climate varieties, especially its Pinot Noir. Throughout Sonoma County and many AVAs within California, the 2023 vintage is already anticipated to be one of the best in decades.

Related link: https://www.merriamvineyards.com/

Glancy Wine Education Foundation Names Ana Keller as President and Adds New Board Member Peter Andrews

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Glancy Wine Education Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Sonoma vintner Ana Keller as its new board President and the addition of importer Peter Andrews as a new board member. Founding President Cheryl Halloran will remain on the board in her role as Fundraising Chair.

Keller brings more than 12 years of experience working on non-profit boards to the position, having served as President of the Petaluma Gap Winegrowers Alliance, as well as continuing to serve as a board member of the Sonoma County Vintners. For the last 23 years, Keller has helped to run her family's winery, Keller Estate, where she has served as Estate Director since 1998.

"I'm extremely excited to join a mission-driven organization that has done such great work in furthering wine education for BIPOC and under-represented wine professionals," said Keller. "I believe we've only scratched the surface of what this foundation is capable of, and I look forward to being involved in the next stage of its evolution and growth."

Wine importer Peter Andrews, DipWSET, CSS, CSW, MBA, has also joined the board, offering his 13 years of experience as a wine educator, sales manager, and operational executive for a wine e-commerce retailer to the organization. Andrews recently launched Culture Wine Co., an importer, wholesaler, e-commerce retailer, and wine club focusing exclusively on the wines of South Africa.

"These are two stellar additions to an already strong volunteer board," said board Vice President, Alder Yarrow. "The combination of Ana's leadership track record and Peter's strong industry and operational experience will be invaluable."

Both Keller and Andrews have joined on the eve of the foundation's third anniversary. To date the organization has provided more than $220,000 in scholarships to more than 140 individuals representing a wide range of experience and backgrounds both inside and outside the wine and hospitality industries.

Professionals in need of financial aid are encourage to apply for scholarships year-round at https://www.glancywineeducationfoundation.org/scholarships. Awards are made monthly.

About The Glancy Wine Education Foundation:

Established in 2020, The Glancy Wine Education Foundation is a registered a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting underserved and minority communities with scholarships to further their professional wine education, increase diversity, and raise earning power.

Find out more at https://www.glancywineeducationfoundation.org/.

Learn more about the foundation's board at https://www.glancywineeducationfoundation.org/board.

The Glancy Wine Education Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Sonoma vintner Ana Keller as its new board President and the addition of importer Peter Andrews as a new board member. Founding President Cheryl Halloran will remain on the board in her role as Fundraising Chair.