Marimar Estate Vineyards and Winery: La Sucesión
Marimar Torres, born into one of Spain’s leading winemaking families, journeyed from Catalonia to establish her own winery in Sonoma County. As she prepares to pass the reins of her estate to her daughter, Cristina, their intertwined stories illustrate a legacy of passion and commitment to winemaking.
Marimar, now 79, embodies a spirit of vitality and adaptability. Upon arriving at her vineyard, the sounds of her tennis practice mix with the serene surroundings. The youngest of three children, Marimar grew up under strict parental guidance that shaped her early years. Her mother, Doña Margarita, believed in the education of women and ensured Marimar learned multiple languages, often encouraging her independence.
In 1973, a pivotal trip to San Francisco with her father, Don Miguel Sr., led to a chance meeting with wine critic Robert Finigan. Subsequently, Marimar found herself navigating personal and professional complexities, including a short-lived marriage. Despite familial expectations, her entrepreneurial spirit propelled her to carve a niche for herself in the wine industry.
With her father’s encouragement, Marimar acquired a 56-acre property in the Green Valley of Sonoma. Initial skepticism from her brother about the land’s potential quickly turned into validation when soil tests revealed it was ideal for viticulture. Despite not having a formal education in viticulture, she adopted a hands-on approach by immersing herself in the culinary world, leading to her first book, The Spanish Table, which stirred her creativity in both cooking and winemaking.
After welcoming her daughter, Cristina, into the world in 1988, Marimar cultivated an environment steeped in family values and Catalan culture. Through numerous activities like horseback riding and skiing, Marimar and Cristina forged a close bond. Cristina eventually pursued studies in economic and business fields, developing a commitment to carrying on her mother’s legacy within the winery.
Marimar’s first harvest at the estate occurred in 1989, with her wines quickly gaining recognition, spurred on by changing perceptions of red wine in America. She introduced sustainable and innovative farming practices, continually evolving her vineyard management strategies over the years.
Cristina’s integration into the family business commenced after exhaustive experiences in the wine industry, culminating in her new role as general manager. Her partnership with Marimar strengthens their shared goal of producing high-quality wines while fostering a family-oriented culture within the winery.
The collaboration between mother and daughter reflects a unique blend of tradition and modernity. While Marimar’s energetic leadership and hands-on approach balance Cristina’s strategic inclinations, their commitment to excellence in winemaking remains undiluted. As they embrace new initiatives for sustainability and productivity, the legacy of Marimar Estate continues to flourish.
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