Molly Bohlman

Molly Bohlman’s journey in the world of viticulture and winemaking is a testament to her dedication and passion for crafting exceptional wines. Born in Minnesota and raised in Wisconsin, Molly’s initial curiosity about wine was fueled by its romantic allure and historical richness. Her path to becoming a celebrated winemaker was sparked during her study abroad in the South of France, where she first encountered the intricacies of wine. This experience profoundly influenced her career direction, leading her back to the United States where she dove deeper into the field.

After returning from France, Molly worked at a University-run research vineyard and winery in Minnesota, quickly realizing that the romanticism of winemaking was underpinned by rigorous, demanding labor. This realization did not deter her; instead, it solidified her resolve to pursue a career in this challenging field. In 1996, she moved to California, a pivotal decision that marked the beginning of her professional journey in viticulture.

Molly pursued her education at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, earning degrees in Viticulture Management and Fruit Science. During her studies, she immersed herself in practical experiences, working across vineyards, wineries, and even a grapevine nursery. These roles provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the wine industry from the ground up, equipping her with the skills needed to excel in various capacities.

Her career progression was steady and impressive. Starting as a cellar hand, Molly worked her way up through roles such as Enologist and Assistant Winemaker, eventually leading to her position as a Winemaker. Her extensive experience spans several reputable locations on the Central Coast and a few years in Sonoma County. Notably, her family also engaged in viticulture, managing a small vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills for eight years, further deepening her connection and commitment to the craft.

Molly joined Niner Wine Estates in Paso Robles in 2014, where she started as an associate winemaker and was promoted to winemaker in 2017. At Niner, she focuses primarily on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, varietals that present unique challenges and opportunities. Molly describes Pinot Noir as a “transparent” wine, which does not conceal flaws and requires careful, nuanced handling to maintain its integrity. On the other hand, Chardonnay offers a different set of challenges, mainly due to the variety of styles it can embody, from crisp and unoaked to rich and oaky.

Her winemaking philosophy is grounded in simplicity and authenticity. Having worked as a custom crush winemaker, Molly has experienced nearly every winemaking style imaginable. This exposure has shaped her approach: to focus on producing wines that reflect the terroir and to engage in minimal intervention. She believes in getting the best possible fruit from the vineyard and allowing it to express itself through the wine.

Outside of her professional life, Molly values her time with her family, exploring the local landscapes of beaches and mountains. These moments are precious, especially given the long hours required during the harvest and bottling seasons.

Molly’s career is a blend of science, art, and hard labor, highlighted by a memorable collaborative winemaker dinner with her siblings, who also entered the wine industry. This event epitomizes the convergence of her professional achievements and personal joys.

Molly Bohlman’s story is not just about making wine; it’s about a profound passion for viticulture that drives her to continue learning and innovating in the wine industry. Her commitment to excellence is evident in every bottle that comes from Niner Wine Estates, making her a respected figure in the field and an inspiration to aspiring winemakers everywhere.