Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Molly Lonborg. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Molly, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
My work ethic stems from my upbringing and family values. Growing up in the small coastal town of Mendocino in rural Northern California, we lived a lifestyle that was deeply connected to nature. Without malls, TV service, or cell phones, we spent our time outdoors, doing chores, splitting and stacking wood, and growing and raising our own food. While we weren’t quite homesteaders, we were on a similar path, and everyone pitched in around the house and property.
Starting one of my first jobs in a restaurant at the age of fourteen further reinforced the notion that there is always something to be done. I learned early on that working hard allows you to enjoy your leisure time even more.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
To be perfectly honest, I never envisioned myself having a full-time job. I’ve always loved traveling and enjoyed art and music, even though I’m not particularly talented in either. I wasn’t sure where my life would lead. I moved to San Luis Obispo to attend Cal Poly and study Earth and Soil Science, spending my second year studying Geology in New Zealand. Upon returning, I discovered the Wine and Viticulture department at my university. I decided to minor in it, thinking I’d pursue organic viticulture work.
Knowing that heading straight to the vineyard would likely keep me there forever, I began my career in the wine industry with a lab internship during harvest in Edna Valley upon graduation. This was followed by a cellar internship in Paso Robles. As that internship ended, I was offered a full-time position. Although I initially hoped to work in the vineyard, I found myself drawn to the cellar. I moved wineries and I transitioned from lab manager/cellar worker to enologist, assistant winemaker, and eventually, associate winemaker. After nine years at one estate, I decided to make a change and joined Alta Colina as their head winemaker.
During my first year at Alta Colina in 2020, I also launched my own brand, Little Soul Wines. My husband, the Vineyard Manager for Tablas Creek, and I were fortunate to move onto a property with grapes that we care for and farm. With some beautiful Pinot Noir that I struggled to sell, I decided to create my own brand. Having over a decade of industry experience helped me make informed decisions about production volume (very limited), wine style (light, fresh, low-alcohol), and sales strategy (pre-selling fresh wines in December/January before bottling in late January). I don’t have a wine club or allocation system; instead, I use a tiered release for past buyers and my mailing list. While I love making wine, selling it isn’t my favorite part, so keeping it small and having an engaged audience is key.
Starting my own brand has brought immense joy, allowing me complete creative control over everything from labels and merchandise to social media. However, it’s not all rainbows and sunshine—I didn’t anticipate the amount of work involved in such a small project. Handling emails, compliance with multiple agencies, bookkeeping, email marketing, IT support—it’s all on me, and it’s no small feat!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three qualities that have been most impactful on my journey are grit and determination, resilience, and passion. My advice for developing and enhancing these qualities is to first find something you are truly passionate about. You won’t have enough determination or resilience if you don’t love what you’re doing and believe in yourself. No matter the path you take, there will always be obstacles, difficult times, or people standing in your way. It’s crucial to know yourself, recognize that your work has purpose and meaning to you, and allow yourself to thrive in the face of adversity. This is easier said than done! Strong mental and physical health are also key to becoming your best self and achieving your goals.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am always eager to connect with like-minded people who share a love for thoughtful wine and food that are grown using organic practices. My wines are light, fresh, and fun, designed to be enjoyed within a year of bottling. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family in a casual setting—nothing stuffy or pretentious, just good times, good wines, and good company. If you’d like to join the Little Soul Family and follow my journey, please visit my website at www.littlesoulwines.com and sign up for my mailing list. You’ll be the first to know about future wine releases and receive occasional updates from me about the season, the vines, the wines, and my two kiddos.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.littlesoulwines.com
- Instagram: @littlesoulwines
Image Credits
Craft and Cluster
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