“We had this huge family. We always came together. There was lots of love. There was lots of support. And really lots of great food. And I think it really instilled in us that fundamental love of entertaining and breaking bread together - of camaraderie, storytelling, conversation - all the things that happen around the table.”
We’re in great company with Joe and Catherine Bartolomei, the brother and sister duo who returned to their family’s farmland to renovate and restore their piece of Sonoma wine country into a boutique luxury hotel, spa and dining offering with a strong sense of place.
Nestled in the Russian River Valley of California, among gently rolling hills and stunning majestic vistas, Joe and Catherine welcome guests from all over the world to an inspired escape, creating meaningful experiences in a setting most sublime.
In this episode, Joe and Catherine take us all on a trip down memory lane, strolling past Sonoma’s recent agricultural revolution, stopping in the shops, farms and vineyards of lifelong friends, and inviting us to sip on some of the best wines the region has to offer.
Top Takeaways
[1:45] Growing up in Sonoma Country, it looked a bit different than it does today - before finding its place on the world of wine map. As such, Joe and Catherine looked for every reason to leave their multi generational Italian family farmland and pave their own paths, until something changed their minds.
[6:10] What started with replanting the family vineyard in 1997, led to a change in mindset for a new generation in Sonoma wine country…farming was “cool again” and Joe and Catherine felt inspired to share this heritage with the world.
[17:45] A day in the life of a Farmhouse Inn guest is full of friendly faces, comfortable accommodations, farm raised products, local recommendations, and a glass of wine…or two.
[20:30] Every room is designed for intimacy - with yourself and with your loved ones - inviting you to do things you don’t typically take the time to do - like soaking in a bathtub or sitting by the fireplace.
[24:10] It’s not just “farm to table” at Farmhouse Inn, it's “farm to spa table” for guests looking to pair wellness with their wine - with treatments including seasonal and local ingredients in their remedies.
[27:15] What happens when two fifth-generation Sonoma farmers, a haute-cuisine experienced executive chef, a world-class maitre d’ and a team of sommeliers conspire?
[33:20] When Farmhouse Inn guests visit the Winery and Artisan Partners’ vineyards and tasting rooms, galleries and shops, they’re welcomed like family. Hear how these curated experiences are authentically intentional.
[38:15] The future of Farmhouse Inn comes with cocktail bars, pairings, classes and tastings, and a nostalgic yet new stay experience in a “summer camp” setting.
[40:20] In all their spare time, Joe works with the tourism industry to share why Sonoma is “the best wine country in the world” and Catherine ensures there will be affordable housing and livable wages for locals to stay and steward this special sense of place.
Notable Mentions
Blackberry Farm, Tennessee
