Paco Mendoza | Winegrower

Bailarín Cellars celebrates those who do what they love. Their passion for life is unstoppable and their enthusiasm is infectious. We celebrate these heroes and learn from their words of wisdom as we chase our own pursuits.

This month, we celebrate Paco Mendoza, a winegrower who works alongside his children Maritza, Alexis, and Francisco in his small family business, Mendoza Vineyard Management. Paco farmed Mila Family Vineyards for the Cabernet Sauvignon vintages in a biodynamic manner. This is more challenging than traditional farming methods but greatly benefits the soil, ecosystem, and fruit. Exceptional wine begins with exceptional farming and requires hard work over the course of a vintage growing season. We appreciate Paco and his team for all their hard work!

WHAT MAKES YOU DANCE?

"Growing a legacy of love through hard work”

As a kid in Mexico, I grew up farming orchards and working with cattle. So, as a teenager in California, it came naturally to me to start growing grapes here, and I haven't stopped since. I grew up with the Munselle and Wasson families, working with them for 24 years, and learned a lot from them in the beautiful Alexander Valley.

I have worked all around Sonoma and Mendocino county and raised my kids in the industry. I feel fortunate enough to have been apart of starting many vineyards, one being Mila - an organic and biodynamic vineyard in Alexander Valley.

Farming vineyards with my family is a dream come true. I get to do what I love, with those I love.

An ideal day for me is spending it in the vineyards with my German Short Haired Pointer, Canelo, checking out the crews work. I also enjoy hopping on the tractor and helping the crew work, although I don’t do it as much as I would like.