Rolando Herrera

Winemaker, Mi Sueño Winery

I started my career in wine making while taking on a cellar worker position my senior year in high school in 1985 at Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. Since then, I've been blessed with the opportunity to be Assistant Winemaker at Chateau Potelle, Winemaker at Vine Cliff and Director of Winemaking at Paul Hobbs Consulting. Mi Sueno Winery was founded in 1997 and since then, we've launched Rolando Herrera Consulting and Herrera Vineyard Management.

Country born: Mexico

Education: Although having no formal education, I learned through practice and with the mentoring of winemakers such as Warren Winiarski and Paul Hobbs.

Years in the wine industry: 30+ years

Honors / Awards:
Founding president of the Napa Sonoma Mexican-American Vintner's Association
Having three wines (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon) poured at The White House

Winemaking Philosophy:
Since Mother Nature is so generous, we try to be as hands off as possible with little intervention. We are very blessed here in Napa Valley, so most of the work comes from Mother Nature. Outside of that factor, I like to have full control; hence I started my vineyard management company. Having your own winemaking facility helps you keep a close eye on the quality and also having your bottling line as well. The more I can control, the more comfortable I feel.