Marcia Torres Forno

In the lush, rolling hills of Sonoma County’s Bennett Valley, Marcia Torres Forno has been crafting exquisite wines that embody the unique terroir of the region. With a career spanning over two decades in the winemaking industry, her journey and expertise have significantly influenced the quality and character of the wines produced at Matanzas Creek Winery, where she has served as head winemaker since 2010.

Born in Santiago, Chile, Marcia’s passion for viticulture began in her homeland, known for its rich wine heritage. Her academic journey in agricultural engineering, with a specialization in viticulture and enology, provided her with a robust foundation to understand both the science and art of winemaking. This dual perspective has been pivotal in her approach, allowing her to blend traditional techniques with innovative practices to enhance wine quality.

Before her tenure at Matanzas Creek Winery, Marcia was a senior winemaker at Jackson Family Wines. Her role there was instrumental in refining her skills and deepening her understanding of crafting wines that are true to their origins. This experience paved the way for her future endeavors, where she would take a more holistic approach to winemaking.

Upon joining Matanzas Creek Winery, Marcia brought with her a philosophy that centers on forming a deep, intimate relationship with the land. Her approach goes beyond mere cultivation; it involves preserving and highlighting the unique characteristics of the vineyard site. Her belief is that each bottle of wine should reflect the distinct essence of its origin, telling the story of the land from which it came. This connection is achieved through meticulous vineyard management and a balanced use of winemaking technologies that respect and elevate the natural qualities of the grapes.

Marcia’s impact at Matanzas Creek is evident in the finesse and depth of the wines. Her ability to integrate modern and traditional methods has not only set the wines apart but has also contributed to setting high standards within the winery. The attention to detail begins in the vineyard, where sustainable practices are prioritized to ensure the health of the vines and the surrounding ecosystem. This sustainability extends to the winery, where innovative techniques are employed to ensure precision in every batch of wine produced.

The wine portfolio under Marcia’s stewardship has flourished, featuring a range of varietals that are expressive of Bennett Valley’s climatic and geological idiosyncrasies. Known particularly for their Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot, the wines exhibit a clarity and complexity that are direct results of Marcia’s philosophy and methodical techniques.

Her work has not only enhanced the profile of Matanzas Creek Winery but has also contributed to the broader dialogue on sustainable winemaking practices. Marcia is a proponent of responsible winemaking, advocating for practices that minimize environmental impact while maximizing the quality and authenticity of the wine.

As a respected figure in the winemaking community, Marcia Torres Forno’s influence extends beyond her immediate professional circle. She is a mentor to aspiring winemakers and a voice in various industry forums, where she discusses the importance of sustainability, the role of women in winemaking, and the future of viticulture in a changing climate.

Marcia’s journey and success are a testament to her dedication and passion for winemaking. As she continues to innovate and lead at Matanzas Creek, her legacy is one of respect for the land, dedication to quality, and a commitment to preserving the unique narrative of Bennett Valley’s wines. Through her work, Marcia Torres Forno not only shapes the present but also paves the way for a sustainable and illustrious future in winemaking.