Have you ever dreamed of waking up to start your day, having a cup of coffee, and walking through endless vines testing grapes for harvest? Wouldn’t it be amazing to blend different varietals, choose how to age wines, and taste each step along the way? For Mari Wells Coyle, this dreamy job is what she lives and breathes each day. We interviewed Mari to learn a bit more about how she got started, what’s in her wine fridge, and what she does for fun. Meet our winemaker below!
1. How long have you been in the wine industry?
1999 was my first vintage in the wine industry. Since then I’ve enjoyed 22 harvests between the northern and southern hemispheres.
2. How did you first get started with ONEHOPE?
A good friend introduced me to ONEHOPE and we began working together on a couple wines. 2 years later, I came back to work with ONEHOPE to help develop the estate winery and our Cause Entrepreneur wine education while also creating new reserve wines and our Vintner Collection which launched in September!
3. What was your background prior to ONEHOPE?
I’ve made Pinot Noir in New Zealand, Sonoma, and Russian River. Rhone Varietals from the Sierra Foothills, and Napa Cabernet. I also love food and wine and have even been able to pair wine for the Oscars with Wolfgang Puck!
4. What’s currently in your wine fridge?
Bubbles!
5. What ONEHOPE wine have you made that you are most proud of?
I’m really proud of our new Vintner Collection. I also love our small lot Russian Pinot Noir that reminds me of some of the first wines that I made in Sonoma.
6. What does a day in the life of Mari look like?
Each day is different, that’s what I love. The best days involve the least amount of time at my computer. During harvest, I start early mornings out in the vineyards, tasting at the winery, and corresponding with our Cause Entrepreneur community.
7. What’s the most challenging part of making wine?
7. What’s the most challenging part of making wine?The biggest challenge for me is patience. From the time in the vineyards to first release can be several years. I’m learning to be more patient each year.
8. Aside from winemaking, what are some of your other hobbies?
I love the outdoors and enjoy cycling, running, and camping with my family in our sprinter van. I also love to paint, cook, and entertain (even if it’s just my boys).
9. What’s your spirit animal and why?
A Tiger. I use my intuition and primal instincts and I love to act quickly. I love being in nature and feeling connected to the earth. I’m also laser focused when I set a goal.
10. What’s one thing that people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I was a whitewater rafting guide before I became a winemaker. In fact, my husband and I got engaged on the Colorado river in the Grand Canyon!
Get Mari’s Picks Delivered to Your Door
Want to try some of Mari’s incredible wines each month? Enjoy curated boxes from our incredible winemaker by becoming a Preferred Customer and opting into our Wine Club for Mari’s Picks! Save 20% each quarter on 6 bottles hand-selected by Mari, FREE shipping, and donate an extra 10% to the charity of your choice!
Cheers,
The ONEHOPE Wine Team
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