As the first winery to launch via Kickstarter, Smith Story Wine Cellars is anything but traditional. 

As modern makers, Ali Smith & Eric Story possess a mix of creativity, restraint, and hustle that’s uniquely their own. Five years, countless press, one Anderson Valley Tasting room, one Russian River Valley Tasting Salon (by appt only), a non-profit (featured on Trendscaping in 2017), a nearly catastrophic investor change turned positive thanks to a women-owned family investment, and a new full-time employee later – the boutique winery continues to use old-world techniques in the new world by working with family-owned vineyards. 

My tour through Anderson Valley (Nash Vineyard, Helluva Vineyard, and a secret to-be-announced Pinot Noir  Vineyard) with Ali & Eric illustrates the sense of place, respect for the land, and a kindness for growers that’s transparent, enlightened, and totally future-forward.

Learn more about how Smith Story Wine Cellars at smithstorywinecellars.com.