This interview at Korbel Champagne Cellars dates back to September of 2021. We were just easing out of the pandemic, so to play it safe, I had the pleasure of joining owner, president, and chairman Gary Heck poolside. Yes, there is a swimming pool off the guest house at the winery. It was a beautiful fall morning, and to have a Korbel mimosa in hand was a bonus! Korbel Champagne Cellars has a multi-layered history full of drama and perseverance. So when the Sonoma County Vintners were about to bestow their highest recognition to Gary, and asked if I’d like to interview him, I jumped at the chance. I’m a bit of a history buff anyway, and knew I’d be enthralled by the story of Korbel. We touch upon Gary’s life on the property and how the Korbel brothers eventually created California “champagne” in 1882. Interestingly, the Hecks are only the second family to run the business, and as a result of their decades of determination, the brand can be found across the U.S. and internationally. Click here to visit Korbel Champagne Cellars.

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