Among the many qualities of a successful person are intelligence, drive and limitless energy. Not too long ago, I had the honor of sitting down and chatting with one of those high achievers who exudes those characteristics: Raghni Naidu, founder of Naidu Wines in Sonoma County. Within three years of her first vintage, Naidu wines are on the wine lists of premium restaurants in the country and the James Beard Foundation chose only her wines to be served during their dinners in Chicago and New York City earlier this year. Impressive? Absolutely. And there’s more…
Photo Credit: Naidu Winery
Raghni, how did you find your way in the world of wine?
“This has been quite the journey. Other people believed in this project before I did and I was encouraged to take the leap to purchase the 10 acre property only 15 minutes from downtown Sebastopol. My husband is a huge influence and told me that with my connection to food and wine, I have the talent and abilities. I had no formal training in the wine industry before I purchased the vineyard and started the winery. However, I do have an outstanding palate and I know what I like.
In India, where I grew up, I played in the kitchen garden where my mother experimented with seeds to grow vegetables that were never grown in the country or were part of the traditional Indian cuisine. My mother made exotic meals and we set the table beautifully each night. Maintaining high standards is important to me and always will be.”
Can you tell me about the property of Naidu Wines?
“The opportunity to have this vineyard is a once in a lifetime gift. It’s a 10 acre hillside property with an already established 5 acre Pinot Noir vineyard boasting 180 degree views of Sonoma farmlands. This is a prime location and I realized that nothing was preventing me from owning it.
I’m not selling grapes to anyone – it’s all for Naidu Wines. My last production was 1500 cases in 2023 – we started with 75 cases in 2020. I wanted to start small because I wanted to make sure the wines were “correct,” in that my vision needed to be executed in each bottle. I have a marketing background and come in with a consumer’s lens. I want those who purchase the wines to have a connection and the wines to show a sense of place.”
Photo Credit: Naidu Winery
You started Naidu Wines in 2020. How did that go?
“It was a crazy time to launch a winery! But, 2020 leveled the playing field and everyone tried to figure things out. We also had wildfires that year so we had to drop fruit – very disturbing to say the least. But the wines really showed well and the Estate Pinot Noir sold out in a month after it was released. I hand delivered the wines throughout the pandemic, as did many people.”
Can you explain your philosophy of Naidu Wines?
“I want to bring together food and wine that come with a sense of place. Honestly, this is a culmination of the broad experiences I’ve had in life. My philosophy has always been quality over quantity and to offer visitors and consumers connected experiences. Also, I want to offer wines from premium single vineyards with a variety of choices such as Grenache Blanc and Chardonnay – not just Pinot Noir.”
What are your short and long term goals?
“My short term goals are to establish Naidu Winery as a premium wine with as many United States placements as possible and also to bring people to the winery and tasting room. When we bought the property in 2018, we knew we wanted to showcase food and wine, the stunning view and the beautiful refurbished four bedroom home with a pool and hot tub that can be rented.
Long term, I’d like the brand to be available and recognized globally, but I know that can take time.”
Photo Credit: Naidu Winery
Let’s talk about your wines – wow!
“We want to have fun with this! We’re very well received so far and we have multiple wines – not just one flagship wine. All of our wines are consistently good with a specific level of quality, elegance and balance – true characteristics of a good winery. The wines are intentional and deserve to be poured in the best settings so that the right person can appreciate them. We produce Brut Sparkling Wine, a Brut Rosé, a Rosé of Pinot Noir, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc.
We use French oak barrels from Bourgogne. My winemaker, Matt Duffy, is very talented and shares the same high standards as me. We taste the wines from barrels together to make sure we’re on the right path. The high points we receive tells me that what we’re doing is good. It’s validation that Naidu Winery is on the right track.”
Do you have any more to add to the conversation?
“It’s all about relationships and the journey of learning. I quickly learned that no one can take my heart and I’m willing to work hard and do that one more step to make things happen. I have to be resilient because of so many challenges causing me to pivot and find a solution. I have trusted my palate that has led me to some wonderful things in life. I’ve also learned to never say no to an opportunity because it may build up to something else.
I feel a sense of responsibility and am extremely dedicated. Naidu Wines isn’t a vanity or passion project. I take it very seriously.”
For more about Naidu Wines and to purchase wines, visit the website HERE.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
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