Our Story
Humble beginnings always make for a great story and we’ve been kicking back and relaxing from the start.
In 1965 most people were tinkering with cars in their garage. Davis Bynum was tinkering with wine. He created Barefoot Bynum Burgundy in that tiny room. But our spirited ways really began with our founders, Michael Houlihan and Bonnie Harvey. In 1986, they took a sleepy label and gave it Sole. Both agreed it was time for a wine that didn't take itself too seriously. So, Barefoot Cellars was created (Bonnie liked the name because it was easy to pronounce) and initially run out of their home. Some say the office was so small you had to go outside to change your mind.
Our founders began with two big varietals that were all about bringing the fun back.
California Cabernet Sauvignon and California Sauvignon Blanc. Michael and Bonnie searched for the perfect image to represent their new wine. Finally, Bonnie just rolled out some paper, stepped on the biggest inkpad she could find and left her mark. It's been on our label ever since.
GOOD THINGS HAPPEN TO THOSE WHO DO GOOD.
Good times are great, but good times that do good are even better. Our founders knew that to inspire people all you needed was a little fun and a lot of heart. They brought Randy Arnold to the team in 1990 to be one of the first Barefooters. Randy always says “good things happen to those who do good.” And he’s proved it. Along with Michael and Bonnie, he helped kick-start our tradition of supporting our passions by partnering with non-profits close to their hearts. Traveling up and down the California coast, Randy acted as our ambassador and turned everyone he met into a friend. He helped our founders turn that tradition into what it is today. He's been following his heart since day one and doesn't plan on stopping. Neither do we.
Our founders knew that behind every great bottle of wine is an even greater winemaker. And ours is Jennifer Wall. She joined the team in 1995 back when there were only four varietals. She's all about making fun, flavorful wines that fans of any experience level will love. And thanks to her, we now have thirteen still wines and six sparkling ones. Along with Michael and Bonnie, Jen helped us become a nationally recognized name in the big old wine industry. She's helped us win thousands of medals and become the most awarded wine brand in U.S. competitions. And she keeps upping her game. We can't wait to see what she'll come up with next.
Big hearts and big ideas always lead to a natural partnership.
So, in 2005, forces were joined with the E. & J. Gallo winery. We’ve been having a great time chasing our dreams together ever since.
Yeah, we’re all about making wine more fun but giving back is really what’s at Barefoot's heart and sole. We’ve made some great friends by following our passions. Whether we’re having fun in the sun with the Surfrider Foundation and Beach Volleyball or steppin’ out and proud with the LGBTQ community, we’re lucky to sip alongside some great causes. We’ve supported over 3,000 charities worldwide and are always on the lookout for more do-gooders to get involved with. Our passion is making the world a better place through wine and we love to get out there and get our toes wet.
OUR PASSION IS MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE THROUGH WINE.Through the years, people have gone head over heels for our wine. We’ve received some amazing recognition and professional awards. More importantly, we’ve made some amazing friends. We have a growing circle of Foot Fans who love to enjoy our wine and join us in giving back. That’s something worth toasting to. So join in and get Barefoot.
