Sarah Citron co-founded Bricoleur Vineyards with her parents after a career in the New York fashion industry.
As COO, she leads hospitality and operations while continuing her great-great-grandfather Pietro Carlo Rossi’s winemaking legacy. He was the original oenologist in the 19th century for Sonoma’s Italian Swiss Colony. Following her Stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis at age 32, Citron has become an advocate for cancer research, establishing the Sip With Purpose campaign which raises money for cancer research funded by the V Foundation.
Amber Turpin: How did you get into this work?
Sarah Citron: I grew up surrounded by the world of wine, with deep family roots in Sonoma County’s winemaking history. But my path to Bricoleur Vineyards wasn’t a straight line. I started my career working in digital commerce for Tory Burch and Theory. Those years gave me invaluable experience in branding, customer experience and high-end hospitality, all of which I’ve carried into my work at Bricoleur. When my family decided to create a winery that blended exceptional wines with a warm, multigenerational hospitality experience, it felt like the perfect opportunity to come back home and build something meaningful.
Did you ever have an ‘aha’ moment with a certain beverage? If so, tell us about it.
My ‘aha’ moment came with our Isla Rose Brut Rosé. This wine is incredibly personal to me. It’s named after my daughter, Isla Rose, and has become a symbol of both joy and resilience. It was already a special wine for our family, but after my breast cancer diagnosis, it took on even deeper meaning.
What is your favorite thing to drink at home?
My go-to is always a great glass of Pinot Noir. It’s such a versatile wine: elegant yet approachable, with layers of depth that make every sip interesting. I love how it evolves in the glass, whether I’m enjoying it with dinner or just unwinding at the end of the day.
Where do you like to go out for a drink?
Nick’s Cove is one of my favorite spots to grab a drink. There’s something about sipping a great glass of wine or a cocktail while overlooking the water that just feels like pure relaxation. The atmosphere is casual and cozy, and the seafood is always incredible.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what would you want to be drinking—besides fresh water?
I’d want to be sipping on a crisp, refreshing rosé or a perfectly balanced spicy margarita. Rosé is light, versatile and perfect for warm, beachy weather, while a spicy margarita would add just the right kick to keep things interesting.
Bricoleur Vineyards, 7394 Starr Rd., Windsor. 707.857.5700. bricoleurvineyards.com
