Founded more than 20 years ago by Kenneth and Laura Juhasz, Auteur Wines has become known for creating small-lot pinot noir and chardonnay sourced from distinct sustainable vineyards along the Northern California Coast.
Those of us lucky enough to have visited their Sonoma Bungalow for a taste can attest to the intentionality of their wines. As of mid-April, Auteur is celebrating a second special location at their brand new Russian River Estate in rural Healdsburg.
Amber Turpin: What’s your job?
Laura Juhasz: Co-founder, Auteur Wines.
How did you get into that work?
I grew up in rural Wisconsin and always had my hands in the dirt. I moved to Portland after college, and met Kenneth, who was working as a cellar rat at the time. My corporate job definitely wasn’t my passion, and I loved wine, so together we explored and kicked around the idea of creating something of our own.
We began Auteur in 2003. We remain a small business to this day. Kenneth is the winemaker and works with our grower partners, and I manage the many details that it takes to build and sustain our winery with a very nimble team. I love the commotion of it all and the seasonality.
Did you ever have an “aha” moment with a certain beverage? If so, tell us about it.
Subterranean Burgundy in 2000 … We were trotting behind a French winemaker, beret and all. He poured a sizable glass at his rustic wine table in the cellar. It was pure nectar in a glass of Jacque Prieres Montrachet Grand Cru—and he laughed when I asked if we could buy a bottle.
What is your favorite thing to drink at home?
We are in the midst of putting the finishing touches on our new Auteur Russian River Estate, so an evening cocktail has been important. Negroni has been nice with the weather, but admittedly wine is what we feel calms our minds and brings us to the table during the evening.
Where do you like to go out for a drink?
We’ve recently been exploring more in Forestville and Sebastopol and are drawn to Sonoma Pizza, Farmstand at Farmhouse Inn and Handline. I also enjoy getting lost in the wine wall at The Matheson in Healdsburg, and Little Saint is like no other place. Here in Sonoma, Valley offers a curious bottle list, and for a great glass of wine El Dorado Kitchen always comes through.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what would you want to be drinking (besides fresh water)?
I’m spoiled; Auteur Hyde Chardonnay. It was made for a desert island. Sea salt, oyster shell and citrus—on repeat.
Auteur Russian River Estate, 10520 Wohler Rd., Healdsburg, 707.938.9211. auteurwines.com.
