The Saini Family

The Saini family has been growing grapes in Sonoma County for over 100 years, with a legacy that began in 1908 when great-grandfather Michele Saini immigrated from Genova, Italy. Initially working as a garbage man in San Francisco, Michele purchased a ranch in Dry Creek Valley in 1917, partnering with his brother-in-law, John Cuneo, to form Cuneo & Saini. They grew crops including pears, apples, prunes, and wine grapes on the ranch, and in 1934 they expanded to Alexander Valley, building a reputation as top grape growers. The family continued the business through successive generations, with third generation John Saini taking over in 1985 and founding Saini Farms, Inc. In 2008, fourth generation Mike Saini launched Saini Vineyards, fulfilling his dream of making wine from the family’s land. Today, the fifth generation is learning the family’s craft and continuing the legacy of quality farming.