It’s time for part three of our “Meet the Priest Ranch Team” series, and we’re excited to introduce you to one of our incredibly talented Wine Specialists, Mara Williams! Mara brings a remarkable brightness to our team and our tasting room in more ways than one.  Not only is she always smiling, but she is also the talented person behind all of our beautiful floral arrangements in the tasting room! Read to learn more about this outstanding member of our Hospitality Team.

How long have you been with Priest Ranch?

I joined the team  in the spring of 2023

What is your favorite Priest Ranch wine?

I’ve got to go with either our Block 71 Sauvignon Blanc or our limited-release Blanc de Blancs of Grenache Blanc! (Don’t forget to use code MARA for 10% off these two wines through July 31st, 2024)

What is your favorite Priest Ranch memory?

I don’t have one particular favorite memory because every day is fun-filled, and we don’t stop laughing. We’re a tight-knit group, and getting to work together (other than the quality of the wines) is the best part of the job. We also spend a lot of time together outside the tasting room!

What is your favorite Priest Ranch experience to host?

The Bacon & Wine Experience is a great conversation starter, and I love seeing our guests’ reactions when you say, “Bacon and wine!” It’s a fun and unique way to taste wine, do food pairings, and entertain and educate visitors to the tasting room.

What is your favorite non-Priest Ranch experience?

Whenever my husband and I can get some time away from our two amazing sons, we love going to Hog Island for oysters and their grilled cheese with house-made pickles! Since I love bubbles, it’s a perfect pairing for a special date night treat. Plus, we always love to explore new restaurants not only for ourselves but also so I can help make recommendations to my guests.

What is your favorite activity to do during your time off?

I love to cook, paint, draw, and spend time with my boys (my husband, two sons, and two dogs). Oh, and of course, I love plants! Indoor or outdoor or floral arrangements. Pretty much any way I can be creative is very therapeutic for me when I’m not in the tasting room!

What do you like most about Priest Ranch?

I love the friendships I’ve made with all of my coworkers.

Freestyle! What do you want to share about yourself/your family?

I’m a pretty simple girl! I love spending time with my family. Coming from a huge Latino family, there’s always someone I can call and hang out with! We all love watching sports, taking family trips, and, of course, partying and dancing! We are all a bunch of goofballs!

And that’s Mara! We hope you’ve either had the honor of being hosted by her or look forward to your next visit and the chance to be hosted by her. Be sure to keep an eye out for her beautiful flower arrangements in our tasting room or on her Instagram, @weedsinajar_! From your friends at Priest Ranch, cheers!