Every door we step through, and every decision we make puts us exactly where we are meant to be. This is my story, this is “my – dash”.
I am a woman-owned and small-production winemaker of Cuban heritage and a vibrant Hispanic culture.
In 2013, soils, farming practices, and patience would become my center. West Coast bound and unsure of how my journey would unfold, the beauty of Northern California fueled this next chapter. Self-taught, motivated with intention, and an alumna of UC Davis Viticulture and Enology, my first wine would be released in 2014, from organically sourced Sonoma Valley fruit.
With a low-intervention philosophy that also focuses on working with organic, or sustainably farmed vineyards, I am all about capturing the pure and vibrant varietal expressions. A minimalist at heart, and sensorily vigilant, my wines see native fermentations and a light hand in the cellar. My aim is to highlight a distinction between time, place, and the diversity of what our micro-climates offer in our beautiful part of the world. Soils and a strong base of healthy grapes are what I believe to be the start of a varietally expressive wine. I also believe in being present and fully hands-on–so yes, these are truly handcrafted wines that include hand harvesting, hand sorting, at times a bit of good ol’ foot treading.
Each harvest brings new inspiration and determination of capturing time and place. Despite the ever-changing and challenging climate – a lesson in resilience, nimbleness, and patience has been a common thread to this craft.
I love how community-driven wine is, how it evokes memories and conversations, highlighting an unapologetic nature. I also love working with varietals that can showcase their ability to express beautiful vibrancy across different growing regions and climates.
I hope you enjoy these wines as much as I enjoy bringing them to you.
Cary Quintana, Winemaker
~Cary Q Wines is a local, Hispanic, and woman-owned winery~
