A story from the Winemaker
My winemaking journey began when I immigrated to the United States from Mexico. The first thing I saw was an endless array of grapes, vines stretching across the land. I still remember being asked, "Why grapes?" and that moment always comes to mind. It felt like a sign, as if life were gently leading me back to something familiar, something that had always been a part of me.
In my youth, I spent countless hours in the vineyards, observing the meticulous growth of grapes and eagerly awaiting their peak ripeness. The grape harvest was a pivotal experience, laying the foundation for my understanding of winemaking long before I could even savor the fruits of my labor.
As the years went on, I moved from the sun-soaked vineyards to the cool and quiet winery cellar. There, I was fortunate to learn from inspiring mentors who guided me through the remarkable transformation of grapes into wine, a process that felt both sacred and alive.
That sense of connection and purpose found a home in Gratitude Wines, which began in a barn owned by Jack and Marcey Smith, where we started crafting homemade wines for family and friends. What began as a simple passion project has grown into a small, heartfelt wine boutique. Every bottle we create is a reflection of where we come from, the people who shaped us, and the lasting magic of wine.
About the Vineyard Manager: Gerardo Alfaro
Gerardo Alfaro’s remarkable journey in the wine and olive oil industries is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. Originally from Mexico, he moved to the United States at the age of 15 and began working in Napa Valley with some of the region’s most prestigious wineries. Despite his youth and inability to drive at the time, Gerardo fully immersed himself in vineyard work, steadily mastering the intricate craft of grapevine care and management.
With determination and a deep understanding of vineyard operations, Gerardo rose to the position of vineyard manager, ensuring the vineyards under his care were maintained to the highest standards. His expertise extended beyond viticulture, as he also ventured into the olive oil industry, applying the same passion and precision to producing exceptional olive oil.
Today, Gerardo runs his own vineyard management company alongside his brother, crafting their own wine and olive oil. His inspiring story reflects his commitment to excellence, personal growth, and dedication to both industries.
Meet the rest of the Gratitude team:
Patti Topete | Head of Operations
Patti Topete grew up in Oakland, bringing with her the energy, warmth, and resourcefulness of someone who knows how to get things done in the real world. As Head of Operations, she is the force that keeps Gratitude Wines moving — from building relationships in the Calistoga community to pushing the brand forward while Juan tends the vines and the cellar.
A member of the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce, Patti moves naturally between worlds. She carries her Mexican heritage with pride and has a gift for making anyone feel like they've known her for years. Where Juan and Gerardo pour their lives into the land and the wine, Patti makes sure that wine finds its way to the right tables and the right people.
Spencer Beck | Creative Director
Spencer Beck joined Gratitude Wines in 2026 as Creative Director. He grew up in Washington with a deep love for the outdoors, studied physics in the heart of Oregon's wine country, and spent several years working in environmental science before making a leap back to art and design — the thing he'd loved all along. Today he runs Alpenglow Supply Co., a small design studio in the Methow Valley, Washington, where mountain trails, photography, and a good glass of wine shape his days as much as the work does.
Spencer found his way to Gratitude the same way most good things happen: through people. He understood immediately what Juan, Gerardo, and Patti were building, and what it means to make something small and true and worth sharing. His job is to make sure the outside of the bottle reflects everything that went into it.