March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women across industries and communities around the world. In the Napa Valley wine industry, women are playing an increasingly influential role—from vineyard stewardship and sustainable farming to winemaking, hospitality, and business leadership. At Clif Family Winery & Farm, women help guide every part of the business, bringing passion, creativity, and dedication to the wines we craft and the experiences we create for our guests. In honor of Women’s History Month, we asked several of the inspiring women of Clif Family to share their perspectives, experiences, and favorite ways to enjoy Clif Family wines.
Laura Barrett, Winemaker
Laura Barrett | Winemaker
Q: What advice would you give to young women considering a career in winemaking?
Laura: If you’re thinking about a career in winemaking, the first step is to work a harvest in the cellar. You’ll be cleaning, moving wine, filling barrels, smelling fermentations, and learning so much in a short amount of time—it’s a great way to get a feel for the industry. If you’re up for more adventure, try doing two vintages in one year by working in the southern hemisphere during their harvest season. Next, focus on building a solid scientific foundation—whether through programs like UC Davis, Napa Valley College, or even night classes in microbiology and wine chemistry. While not essential, this knowledge helps you understand wine on a deeper level and solve problems more effectively. After that, it’s time to settle into a longer-term position as an Enologist, Cellar Master, or Assistant Winemaker to see a wine through from start to finish. Patience is key. And while my advice applies to both young men and women, I know it can be harder for women to feel comfortable in the traditionally male-dominated cellar environment. My advice: get in there, be confident, and work hard
Favorite Clif Family Pairing: A Clif Family Food Truck staple - Porchetta Bruschetta with a glass of Valle di Sotto Zinfandel. They're a match made in heaven!
Left: Sarah Richmond, Director of Operations & Sustainability
Right: Tessa Henry, Farm Manager
Sarah Richmond | Director of Operations & Sustainability
Q: What does Women's History Month mean to you personally?
Sarah: Women's history is everyone's history, right? We know that behind every great woman is another great woman, which is why this month invites us to reflect on the countless women who have transformed the world with their unconditional love, grace and strength, determination and resilience. It magnifies our understanding that when the world told us to shrink, we only expanded.
Favorite Clif Family Pairing: A Firecracker Salad from the Clif Family Food Truck with a chilled glass of Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc!
Tessa Henry | Farm Manager
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in farming?
Tessa: When I chose to study Environmental Studies I hoped that it would lead me to something outside in nature that would help the Earth. Wouldn’t you know it my first job after college was working on an organic farm. I learned about sustainable farming practices and bringing biodiversity onto the farm and have been farming ever since.
Favorite Clif Family Pairing: Our veggie-centric Zucca Bruschetta with a glass of Gary's Improv Zinfandel.
Linzi Gay, President
Linzi Gay | President
Q: As a female leader in the wine and food industry, what does Women’s History Month mean to you?
Linzi: Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of women past and present, but it’s also a reminder of the work that still needs to be done. As a female leader in the wine and food industry, I see firsthand the power of women supporting women—whether it’s mentoring, collaborating, or simply making space at the table for new voices. At Clif Family, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, lead, and innovate.
Favorite Clif Family Pairing: RTE Blanc Sauvignon Blanc with the Polenta Tots from our Food Truck. Crisp, bright and just the right amount of indulgence.
Kit Crawford, Co-Founder & Co-Owner
Photo by: Emma K Morris
Kit Crawford | Co-Founder & Co-Owner
Q: What message do you have for the next generation of women leaders?
Kit: Be bold, be kind, and don’t be afraid to take up space. Your voice, your ideas, and your leadership matter. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, lift others as you climb, and always stay true to your values. At Clif Family, we believe in building a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Women bring unique perspectives, creativity, and resilience to leadership, and I’m excited to see the impact the next generation will make.
Favorite Clif Family Pairing: Our Chicory Goddess Salad with Gluten-Free Polenta Tots and a glass of Bici Rhone-Style Red Wine.
Right: Candice Crawford, Wine Sales Manager
Left: Meg Barkley, Vice President of Marketing & Membership
Meg Barkley | Vice President of Marketing & Membership
Q: How has being a woman influenced your experience in the wine industry?
Meg: Wine is deeply personal to me, from childhood memories of my father's homemade wine to the gatherings I now host. It's integral to shared moments. As a woman, I'm particularly drawn to wine's nurturing and communal aspects, how it brings people together. I appreciate its inherent beauty, from vineyard views to the perfect food pairing. These values, I've found, resonate with many in the wine industry.
Favorite Clif Family Pairing: You can't go wrong with a glass of Kit's Killer Cab paired with the Funghi Bruschetta from the food truck. WOW!
Honoring the Women Leaders at Clif Family
The women leaders at Clif Family bring passion, expertise, and dedication to everything they do—from crafting incredible wines to leading with sustainability and heart. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate their contributions and the impact they make every day.
As we continue to champion diversity and empowerment, we invite you to raise a glass to the women who inspire us. Join the conversation and share the stories of the women who have made a difference in your life!
