Our People
Making Friends
Meet the people behind our wines—passionate, curious, and committed to creating exceptional experiences. At Amista, it’s all about heart, collaboration, and the joy of sharing our estate-grown sparkling wine and expressive Rhône varietals with friends old and new. We take great pride in our organically farmed vineyards and sustainable practices, which reflect our deep respect for the land and our community.
Vicky Farrow
Proprietor & CEO, Amista Vineyards
Founder, Sparkling Discoveries
With a background in psychology and a career leading high-performing teams in the corporate world, I eventually found my true calling in wine—and never looked back. After years as an executive and leadership coach, I now bring those skills to Amista, where I lead our strategy, guide our team, and still make time for daily vineyard walks with our Shelties, Torin and Dylan.
In 2022, I launched Sparkling Discoveries, a community dedicated to the people and passion behind sparkling wine—lovers, makers, and thought leaders alike.
Ashley Herzberg
Winemaker, Amista Vineyards
I earned my degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno with plans to go to medical school. But one harvest in a winery lab changed everything. I fell in love with winemaking—the perfect blend of science, art, and joy—and I never looked back.
Since joining Amista in 2011, I’ve led our winemaking program with a focus on crafting small-lot, single-vineyard sparkling wines using the traditional method.
I also oversee our estate vineyards, and I’m deeply committed to sustainable farming practices. One of my proudest accomplishments has been leading the effort to achieve organic certification for our vineyards in 2024.
Working with Rhône varieties in Dry Creek Valley, and doing so with care for the land, continues to be one of the most fulfilling parts of my journey.
Brian Shapiro
Estate Director, Amista Vineyards
As a graduate of Sonoma State’s Wine Business Institute, it was only natural that I’d immerse myself in the wine country way of life. My passion for small producers, exceptional wines, and the stories behind them has led me to work with some of the most respected wineries in Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, and now Dry Creek Valley.
I’ve always been drawn to Rhône varietals—their depth, character, and connection to place—and it was only a matter of time before that path led me to Amista. Here, I’m honored to help shape our unforgettable experiences and share the beauty of this estate and our sparkling and still wines with visitors from near and far.
Meet the Amista Hospitality Team
The Friendly Amista Spirit!
Our Winery Dogs
At Amista, we’re not just passionate about exceptional wines—we’re also proud to be a dog-friendly winery. Our beloved wine dogs are part of the family and bring an extra layer of joy and warmth to every visit. Whether you come wine tasting with furry friends or just love meeting ours, you’ll feel right at home here.
Torin
Torin, a Sheltie (Shetland Sheep Dog), came to live with us as a 10-week old puppy in August 2011. His Celtic name means thunder, which is an apt description for this noisy boy. He loves pilfering tomatoes from the winery garden.
Dylan
Dylan is the newest Sheltie in our family, born on April 5, 2014. His name means “streak of light” and between him and Torin, we certainly do have lightening and thunder. They have become best buddies. Dylan loves to greet visiting canines when they come to the winery.