March is International Women’s Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate the talented women shaping the wines of Sonoma and Napa Valley. From the vineyard to the cellar and beyond, women are playing an increasingly influential role in Wine Country—bringing fresh perspectives, thoughtful leadership, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

To honor the occasion, we caught up with several inspiring women winemakers from across Sonoma and Napa for a fun, quick-fire Q&A. They shared everything from their favorite at-home pairings and go-to restaurants to which women inspire them most. Keep reading for more.

Maggie Kruse | Head Winemaker

Jordan Vineyard & Winery, Sonoma County

Your official title is Head Winemaker, but what’s the title you’d unofficially give yourself?

Director of Wine & Shenanigans (I’ll do anything from making wine, hosting trade members at the winery, sales trips, dance and lip sync in music videos, nothing is off limits at Jordan).

Favorite places to eat in Napa/Sonoma right now?

Augie’s French in Santa Rosa, The Matheson in Healdsburg, and Campanella in Sebastopol.

What’s one thing, place, activity, or wine you wish more people knew about when visiting Napa or Sonoma?

I wish more people knew how easy it is to fly in and out of Charles Schulz Sonoma County Airport. You land and you’re basically in Wine Country within minutes. Plus, the best perk is most airlines out of Sonoma County Airport participate in the Wine Flies Free program, so you don’t have to pay to check a case of wine.

What’s your go-to food and wine pairing at home?

It’s a classic, but I love spicy Thai food with Riesling.

If you weren’t drinking wine with dinner, what would be in your glass?

While I love all fermented and distilled beverages, I would say Whisky is my typical go-to.

Who are other women in wine that you admire?

Cathy Corison, Heidi Barrett, Andrea Robinson, Jancis Robinson.

Nicole Hitchcock | Estate Director; Laura Fontaine | Senior Winemaker; Becca Del Solar | Associate Winemaker

J Vineyards, Sonoma County

Favorite places to eat in Napa/Sonoma right now?

Nicole: Diavola in Geyserville, Augie’s French in Santa Rosa, and Glen Ellen Star in Glen Ellen.

What’s one thing, place, activity, or wine you wish more people knew about when visiting Napa or Sonoma?

Becca: Head to Tomales Bay for dockside oysters and a chilled glass of bubbles.

What’s your go-to food and wine pairing at home?

Nicole: Russian River Valley Pinot Noir with grilled portobello mushroom burgers. I also love Brut Rosé with homemade ceviche.

If you weren’t drinking wine with dinner, what would be in your glass?

Laura: I’d likely have a cup of tea. Wine and tea are parallel worlds in their own right—both offer a rich tapestry of flavors and aromas that evolve with every sip. Like wine, tea has its own terroir, varietals, and craftsmanship, providing a deeply sensory and cultural experience.

A wine region you love outside your own?

Laura: Beaujolais. It’s a fascinating region known for its vibrant Gamay wines that are incredibly approachable and full of character and nuances.

Who are other women in wine that you admire?

Nicole: Laura Fontaine and Becca del Solar 😊. I also admire women who’ve held diverse roles in the industry; Olga Karapanou-Crawford—whom I worked with as a winemaker years ago—has also gone on to run her family’s winery in Greece, found a winemaking/business consultancy, and is the only Greek woman to hold the Master of Wine title.

Jamie Benziger | Operations Senior Manager-Winemaker

Imagery Estate Winery, Sonoma County

Favorite places to eat in Napa/Sonoma right now?

Whenever we venture over the mountain to Napa, Rutherford Grill has always been a family favorite. Closer to home in Sonoma, I love sitting outside at the Swiss Hotel—enjoying a meal, sharing a drink, and socializing with the locals.

What is one thing, place, activity, or wine you wish more people knew about when visiting Napa or Sonoma?

Our little town of Glen Ellen is truly a unique hidden gem inside Sonoma County. It offers almost everything from cozy inns, tasty wines, Michelin star restaurants, a top-notch saloon, breathtaking views, and all sorts of activities at Jack London State Park, the reservoir, and Bouverie Preserve.

What is your go-to food and wine pairing at home?

One of my favorite dishes to make at home is a peas and prosciutto lemon pasta. I love to pair this with a nice crisp Sauvignon Blanc like Benziger’s Estate or with our Imagery Albarino.

A wine region you love outside your own?

I was fortunate enough to spend a short time in Marlborough, New Zealand working a vintage. During that experience, I not only fell in love with the breathtaking scenery and remarkable wines, but also with the warmth and hospitality of the people.

If you could only drink one grape variety for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I would have to say Albarino. It is a more aromatic alternative to Sauvignon Blanc. I find Albarinos can be very refreshing and a perfect summer patio wine.

Who are other women in wine that you admire?

Two women in wine and business who have greatly influenced me are Dana Stemmler and Susan Suiero. Dana, the winemaker I had the privilege of working with during one of my first full-time roles at Bogle Winery, impressed me not only with her deep knowledge and passion for winemaking, but also with her ability to balance the demands of the job while maintaining a fulfilling personal life. Susan, while not a winemaker, is an incredibly smart, talented, and savvy businesswoman. I first met her at Gundlach Bundschu, [she] impressed me with her sharp business insight, creativity, and generosity in sharing knowledge.

Lisa Amaroli | Senior Winemaker

Benziger Family Winery, Sonoma County

Your official title is Senior Winemaker, but what’s the title you’d unofficially give yourself?

Unofficially, I’d call myself the Chief Curiosity Officer—curiously connecting people to wine and the land, and helping turn everyday moments into memorable ones.

Favorite places to eat in Napa/Sonoma right now?

Willie’s Wine Bar in Santa Rosa—perfect for sharing small plates with friends. Valette in Healdsburg for special occasions. El Molino Central in Boyes Hot Springs—the best chips, guacamole, and fish tacos.

What is your go-to food and wine pairing at home?

Dungeness crab and Chardonnay. We’re so lucky to have access to fresh crab when it’s in season, and with a well-paired, elegant Chardonnay you don’t even need butter for the crab. A match made in heaven.

If you were not drinking wine with dinner, what would be in your glass?

A spicy margarita when I’m feeling feisty with great Mexican food. Or a martini with three olives…although sometimes that is dinner, ha! I also love a good dry sake. Otherwise, water.

A wine region you love outside your own?

Piedmont region, Italy. Much of my love for the region comes from friendships formed over local food and wine.

Who are other women in wine that you admire?

For women I don’t personally know, I admire Zelma Long, who helped pave the way for women in wine leadership, and Heidi Barrett, whose innovation and exceptional Cabernets have reached beyond the stratosphere.
For the women I know well and admire—there are too many to list. A special shout-out to Hillary Sjolund, Winemaking Director at Aperture—a gifted winemaker, manager, and teacher whom I’m proud to call my friend. And Jamie Benziger, Imagery Winemaker. She’s incredibly passionate, and I’m proud to see her bringing her own style to Imagery.

Katie Madigan | Winemaker

St. Francis Winery, Sonoma County

Your official title is Winemaker, but what’s the title you’d unofficially give yourself?

Zinfandel Whisperer.

Favorite places to eat in Napa/Sonoma right now?

In Sonoma County, I love Monti’s. Over in Napa, I think The Forge is a great place to hang out.

What’s your go-to food and wine pairing at home?

I love a glass of Chardonnay with blistered shishito peppers and lemon zest. It comes together quickly and the Chardonnay really tempers any spiciness. It’s just enough to tide you over until dinner.

A wine region you love outside your own?

I am just going to say all of Italy—it’s hard to narrow down just one region there, it’s all so good.

If you could only drink one grape variety for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I think Sangiovese is such a great all-season wine. I would definitely look forward to having it every day if I could!

Who are other women in wine that you admire?

There are so many! Sally Johnson, Elizabeth Vianna-Hill, and Remi Cohen, just to name a few!

Sarah Vandendriessche | Winemaker

Elizabeth Spencer, Napa Valley

Your official title is Winemaker, but what’s the title you’d unofficially give yourself?

Wine Wrangler. I had business cards printed with that, once.

Favorite places to eat in Napa/Sonoma right now?

Charter Oak for the bread and vegetables, ZuZu because the owner is so lovely and it has always been THE spot in Napa to see winemakers in their own habitat. Valley Swim Club in Sonoma has a great patio and fun wines.

What’s one thing, place, activity, or wine you wish more people knew about when visiting Napa or Sonoma?

Hike to Linda Falls. It is not a long walk, but super peaceful. I live downtown and take my canoe out to the Napa River all the time. As for wine? I’d have to say my husband’s winery is still a hidden gem: a small family run ghost winery.

If you weren’t drinking wine with dinner, what would be in your glass?

Aperitif spritz—I make one from Meyer Lemons, but I also enjoy a classic Aperol, with our Nicoise salad using Tuna that we preserve at home.

A wine region you love outside your own?

Friuli!

Who are other women in wine that you admire?

Jen Thompson is a second generation Grape Grower in Carneros, who I adore for her moxy, energy, and dedication.

Stephanie Putnam | Vice President of Winemaking

Raymond Vineyards, Napa Valley

Favorite places to eat in Napa/Sonoma right now?

Il Posto is a favorite of mine. It’s right around the corner from where I live. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and consistently delicious. The kind of place that feels like a neighborhood secret.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about when visiting Napa or Sonoma?

I wish more visitors would venture off the main road and explore a little. Napa offers beautiful hiking in addition to great wine tasting. You can start the morning with a hike, then spend the afternoon tasting wine and enjoying a relaxed meal.

What’s your go-to food and wine pairing at home?

I tend to keep it simple. A piece of Parmesan and a glass of red wine. Sometimes the simplest pairings are the most perfect.

If you weren’t drinking wine with dinner, what would be in your glass?

A gin and tonic! Clean, refreshing, and classic.

A wine region you love outside your own?

Stellenbosch in South Africa’s Western Cape. The scenery is breathtaking, and the Chenin Blancs there are incredible with vibrant acidity, beautiful minerality, and so much character.

Who are other women in wine that you admire?

Alisa Jacobson, owner and winemaker of Turning Tide. She brings a thoughtful, intentional approach to everything she does, and that kind of authenticity is something I really admire.