Where are you from and where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in the countryside of Guatemala. I came to the United States like many others, looking for a better life and opportunity. I have been in California for over 12 years.
When did you first become interested in farming/viticulture?
I was raised in the country so farming was always part of our livelihood. I learned about grape farming here at Doffo Winery. Marcelo hired me in 2006 and taught me everything I know. I was the only one working in the vineyard besides Marcelo and Damian. I was taught everything from planting vines to harvest.
Describe working in the wine industry and what do you do at Doffo Winery?
I do everything that is related to farming here at Doffo as well as many other jobs. Pruning in the winter, thinning shoots, watering schedules, tractor work, checking for pests and mildew issues. It all falls under my duties here at the winery. You will always see my crew and I in the vineyard all throughout the year. Work never stops in the vineyard. I’m also very proud of our farming methods that we implement here at the winery; organic fertilizing, composting, mulching and growing cover crops make our vineyard one of the greenest and healthiest in the valley. Like Marcelo says, you can’t make good wine with bad grapes! It all starts in the vineyard.
Do you have a favorite Sport?
Being from Guatemala, obviously soccer is my favorite sport. However, since I have been working at the winery, I have gained interest in motorcycles and Moto GP as well.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
In my home country, as well when I first came to the U.S., I worked in the construction industry. It was a job that was very gratifying and I would probably go back to if I didn’t work at the Doffo Winery.
