Science is often described in stringent and insentient terms but for Kathy Joseph science is an outlet for her invigorating creative expression. Perhaps that is why the transition from her proud Midwestern, pre-med roots to the budding industry of Californian viticulture was so smooth.
Tyler Blue of the Santa Barbara News Press may have said it best when he proclaimed, “If there’s anyone in the world with a well-aligned left and right brain, it’s Kathy Joseph. The founder, proprietor, and self-proclaimed ‘grape-herder’ of Fiddlehead Cellars exhibits a rare balance of free-spirited creativity and analytical zest.”
Mentored by five exceptional winemakers on the North Coast and armed with graduate studies in Enology and Viticulture from the University of California, Davis, Kathy took a leap of faith in 1989 and built the winery of her dreams. She focused solely on two grape varietals, Pinot noir and Sauvignon blanc, pioneering two important frontiers of viticulture and bringing world recognition to two adolescent winemaking districts which are now officially recognized AVA’s in the Santa Ynez Valley. Even Kathy is amazed that her early ambition helped foster these now renowned wine districts.
It’s the nuts and bolts of winemaking that keeps Kathy challenged and engaged. She is invigorated by her direct participation in a diversity of jobs including winery production, viticulture, marketing, and business decisions. Her energy and passion continue to thrive every day.
The Fiddlehead portfolio embodies Kathy’s passion to make wines of texture, elegance and expression of place. Her Estate Vineyard, Fiddlestix, is a gorgeous piece of Pinot noir paradise and is touted as one of the best in the district. Her Sauvignon blancs are equally expressive of their place. As “Head Fiddle”, she cares about the people she works with, she cares about the sustainability of her actions in the vineyard and she cares about the people who drink her wine. Kathy crafts just 5,000 cases per year and continues to believe the love of winemaking must be reflected in every sip.