Bella Luna Estate Winery was started by lifelong friends, Kevin Healey, and Sherman Smoot. These two go way back, having first crossed paths on the t-ball field in sunny Central Coast, California--probably about age 4! Both Kevin and Sherman served their country in Vietnam, then their paths diverged for a while. Yet, destiny had other plans, as it often does. Then in 1996, Bella Luna Estate Winery emerged after a long night of reminiscing and reconnecting, a testament to the enduring power of friendship. The morning after, the crazy idea of partnering in a winery still sounded pretty darn good. So, in 1998 they rolled up their sleeves and planted dry-farmed Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Ruby Cabernet vines. Laurie Zanoli-Smoot also grew up on the Central Coast. She and Sherman met in 1993, they married in 2000. Laurie has been a part of the winery from day one. She was always involved and often behind the scenes planning and hosting all the events, wine-maker dinners, hospitality and more. Kevin’s daughter Nichole was put to work in the vineyard and winery before high school. After college, Nichole found herself on the other side of the globe in Australia, making wine. She fell head over heels in love with Lukas, a winemaker in Margaret River, Western Australia. In 2018, Lukas and Nichole returned to Bella Luna to be closer to family, and help with winemaking. It’s a family affair that’s all about love, friendship, and a whole lot of wine! Your hosts on this cruise will be Laurie Zanoli-Smoot, and Nichole and Lukas Finn. We are kicking off Laurie’s 70th trip around the sun, so you won’t want to miss the fun! Bella Luna Estate Winery currently produces a total of 2,000 cases per year. They produce wines from Nebbiolo, Barbera, Sangiovese, Dolcetto, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Ruby Cabernet, Merlot, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay varietals! Cheers to these delicious wines and wonderful family and friends