Kamal Azari, a developer, and doctorate of political science, was a visiting scholar and researcher of Iranian Studies at UC Berkeley in 1988 when he and his artist wife, Pari, visited Sonoma County and discovered the undeveloped vineyard site. The discovery of this exceptional parcel of peaceful, natural splendor, in the heart of a burgeoning wine region, whispered infinite possibilities to them. Having a passion for working hands-on with their projects and being attuned to nature is a natural inclination for the Iranian-born couple. Their shared Persian cultural heritage of hospitality and appreciation of the natural quality of simplicity is steeped in historical traditions that are expressed in their wine making approach. The Azaris have created a cross-cultural wine country oasis on their lush, secluded vineyard estate. Above all things, the Azaris are thankful for their family, their friends, and the opportunity that nature has given in inspiring their vision for Azari Vineyards

 

Together they have developed an award-winning estate vineyard and a full-production artisan winery. Planting Pinot Noir within the Pacific Maritime stream of the Petaluma Gap was an obvious choice, but they also decided to add an additional, secondary crop of cool-climate Shiraz , harkening back to their roots in Iran's renowned wine growing region.