It’s official: 2026 has been declared the International Year of the Woman Farmer by the United Nations, marking a global effort to honor the contributions of California women in agriculture. But the celebration has already begun for those of us immersed in California’s vibrant food and wine culture.
Recently, Cherry Bombe, a women-in-food community, brought its renowned conference, Cherry Bombe Jubilee, to California for the first time. This gathering in Napa Valley spotlighted women reshaping agriculture and food, setting the stage for deeper conversations about women’s pivotal role in farming and winemaking.
These discussions resonate deeply in California, the agricultural heart of the United States. This article is the first in a series exploring the inspiring stories of women farmers and producers across the Golden State.
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A Grounded Perspective on California Agriculture
If you’ve been around here a while, you likely know I spend much of my time crisscrossing California to uncover its food-focused stories and visit farms, vineyards, and kitchens that define this region. From the sunlit vineyards of Napa to the rugged coastlines of Mendocino, I spent this fall meeting women who are leading the charge for a more sustainable and inclusive future in agriculture.
Having attended Cherry Bombe Jubilee’s Napa Valley event, I’ve heard firsthand the insights and aspirations of these trailblazers. I’m sharing a peek into a few women who make California’s agricultural scene extraordinary.
What is the International Year of the Woman Farmer?
The International Year of the Woman Farmer is a global initiative celebrating women’s critical contributions to agriculture. Officially recognized by the United Nations for 2026, the designation seeks to spotlight women’s role in ensuring food security, fostering sustainability, and driving innovation in farming practices worldwide. In the U.S., organizations such as the USDA are championing this milestone, which has led to its adoption.
If you know what is grown in California—more than one-third of the country’s vegetables and two-thirds of its fruits and nuts—this global celebration feels particularly personal. California’s women farmers and producers are at the forefront of the sustainable agriculture movement, embodying the spirit of the Year of the Woman Farmer.
California Women in Agriculture at Cherry Bombe Jubilee
At the Napa Valley Cherry Bombe Jubilee, California women in agriculture took center stage during panels and talks, highlighting their work, challenges, and triumphs. Here are just a few of the incredible women featured:
Amelia Ceja, Ceja Family Vineyards
A trailblazer for diversity in wine, Amelia Ceja shared her journey as the first Mexican-American woman to serve as winery president during a keynote talk. Her commitment to elevating the quality of her wines and the visibility of underrepresented voices in the industry is inspiring.
Brenae Royal, St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery
As a vineyard manager at one of Napa’s most prestigious wineries, Brenae Royal is a powerful advocate for regenerative farming practices and mentorship for the next generation of women in viticulture. Note: Brenae has since parted ways with St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winer, but we’re excited to follow her career as she starts her next chapter.
Erin Raser, Far West Fungi
During the women in agriculture panel at the Jubilee, Erin detailed the innovative techniques that make Far West Fungi a leader in sustainable fungi production.
Gretchen Roddick, Hope Family Wines
Gretchen underscored the importance of resilience and adaptability in the wine industry, which guided her stewardship of Hope Family Wines.
Martha Stoumen, Martha Stoumen Wines
Known for her natural winemaking approach, Martha Stoumen’s wines reflect a deep respect for California’s diverse terroir and an unwavering commitment to sustainability. During the Jubilee, Martha and her team poured crowd favorites like their Honeymoon white wine and Benchlands red wine.
Melissa Machado Cheney, Machado Family Farms
Melissa brought her family’s prized walnuts to be part of the Picnic on the Lawn event hosted by California Walnuts. Check out this grower spotlight to learn more about her work cultivating walnuts and her dedication to preserving family farming traditions in California’s Central Valley.
Samantha Rudd, Rudd Estate
As a second-generation vintner, Samantha Rudd combines modern innovation with her family’s legacy to craft exceptional wines in Napa Valley and head their wine-country projects like the acclaimed restaurant Press and the soon-to-launch neighboring concept, Under-Study.
Other Inspiring Women in California Wine Country
Beyond the Jubilee, my Northern California travels introduced me to other California women in agriculture, making waves from Napa and Sonoma to Mendocino County. These producers and farmers embody the creativity and grit that define this region:
Amy Smith, Harbor House Inn Farm
Amy’s work at Harbor House Inn Farm along the Mendocino Coast showcases how small-scale farming can enhance a restaurant’s culinary identity.
Katina Connaughton, SingleThread Farms
As the farmer behind the three-Michelin-starred SingleThread restaurant in Sonoma County, Katina’s work blends artistry and agriculture to create a farm-to-table experience.
Krissy Scommegna, Boonville Barn Collective
Known for her work with heirloom chiles at Boonville Barn Collective (the piment d’ville is a must-try!), Krissy’s efforts have brought Mendocino’s unique agricultural heritage to a broader audience. [Learn about Krissy]().
Stephanie Tebutt and Annie Courtens, Filigreen Farms
This duo leads Filigreen Farms in Anderson Valley, a biodynamic farm that produces everything from fruits to grains while prioritizing ecological health. Their produce makes its way into the region’s top restaurants, and local schools, and is for sale at their farmstand, Velma’s Farm Stand at Filigreen Farms.
How to Support California Women in Agriculture
Yes, we’re still early to start celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer, but the truth is, there are all kinds of ways to uplift women in agriculture right now. It feels good, but it makes sense because supporting California women in agriculture is an investment in sustainability, diversity, and innovation. Here are a few ways to show your support:
Engage in Agritourism
Visit farms, vineyards, and agritourism destinations like the vineyards above, Filigreen Farms, or SingleThread Farms to experience their work firsthand.
Buy Locally and Online
Seek products from women-led farms and businesses at farmers markets, farm stands, specialty stores (like the Far West Funghi shop at San Francisco’s Ferry Building), or online.
Advocate for Women in Agriculture
Share their stories, support policies that promote equity in farming, and encourage others to celebrate women’s contributions to the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Women in California's agriculture industry play crucial roles that range from farm ownership and management to agricultural science, policy advocacy, and sustainable farming practices.
They are increasingly recognized for contributing to innovations in sustainable agriculture, organic farming, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. Women are also pivotal in fostering farm-to-table movements and educational initiatives about agriculture in local communities.
Women in California have been at the forefront of the sustainable agriculture movement, advocating for and implementing practices that protect the environment while producing food. They have led efforts in organic farming, integrated pest management, and water conservation techniques.
Many women-owned farms prioritize biodiversity, soil health, and reducing carbon footprints, influencing broader industry standards and practices. Organizations and networks specific to women in agriculture, such as California Women for Agriculture, provide support and promote the role of women in shaping a more sustainable agricultural future.
Several programs and initiatives in California specifically support women in agriculture by providing educational resources, networking opportunities, and financial support:
- California Women for Agriculture (CWA): This organization promotes women's involvement in agriculture through education, networking, and advocacy.
- Farmer Veteran Coalition: While not exclusively for women, this initiative supports veterans in agriculture and has specific resources and networking opportunities for women veterans.
- USDA's Women in Agriculture Mentoring Network: This network connects women in agriculture nationwide to share resources, experiences, and opportunities for collaboration.
- Local university extension programs: Many universities offer courses, workshops, and seminars that focus on empowering women farmers with the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful.
Get To Know California Wine Country
As we celebrate the incredible contributions of women in California agriculture—from sustainable farming to leadership in winemaking—we’re reminded of how deeply intertwined agriculture is with the state’s identity. Many of these trailblazing women play key roles in California’s world-renowned wine country, shaping the industry with their innovation and expertise.
If you’re inspired to explore more about this iconic region, our California Wine Country Travel Guide offers everything you need to plan your visit. Discover the best wineries, restaurants, and experiences that showcase the beauty and bounty of California wine country.
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