Fred Peterson, a modest and talented vintner from California’s Dry Creek Valley, shares the winding path that led him to winemaking. From his service in the US Navy, he navigated a career that eventually blended into his role as a part-time firefighter and a passionate wine producer.
Describing his journey, Fred acknowledges that he has always been a wanderer—never fully driven by a singular vision. He is deeply influenced by his experiences working with renowned vineyards in California, admiring Ridge Vineyards and Paul Draper, under whom he honed his craft. Despite not initially setting out to establish his own winery, Fred found himself doing just that in 1995, motivated mainly by his love for making wine rather than a desire for fame or fortune.
Fred’s upbringing in South San Francisco shaped his character; he characterized the area as industrial and rooted in his family’s Sicilian heritage, where wine was a staple at the dinner table, though seldom of great quality. His connection with the fire service began when he volunteered for the Geyserville Fire Protection District to challenge himself and serve his community, revealing his deep appreciation for teamwork and the physicality of the job.
His path to winemaking began in earnest after a period of exploration in agriculture, spurred by a friend’s invitation to work on a vineyard. He transitioned into winemaking while still playing an active role in various vineyards, including a stint as vineyard manager and assistant winemaker at Mount Eden Vineyards.
The establishment of Peterson Vineyards in 1987 was born from a slow start. Fred initially made small-batch wines for friends and clients, growing to embrace the craft fully as he focused on his own designs. His children have joined him in his endeavors, with Jamie now leading the winery and Fred continuously exploring the intricate process of winemaking.
Fred views his craft as one deeply intertwined with the land and community. His philosophy revolves around creating wines that reflect their origins without succumbing to the pressures of high-volume, mass-marketable products. He values the authenticity of winemaking, often questioning the concept of success in terms of personal fulfillment rather than financial gain.
Today, Fred Peterson remains an active figure in Vineyards while also serving as a director for the Northern Sonoma County Fire District—a testament to the dual passions of his life. Ultimately, he embodies a spirit of curiosity and resilience, offering a unique perspective on the intertwined worlds of fire, family, and fine wine.