Published: 194 days ago
Featured California Winegrowers - Rich and Jason Smith, Monterey
"Mostly we're just having fun. I don't feel like I go to work." - Rich Smith
"I've done everything here. I started hoeing weeds, then driving the tractor, then working in the shop. I'm not just the kid Dad hired who has now taken over (the business)." - Jason Smith
Rich and Jason Smith are accidental farmers. They just don't play the part. The father and son duo produces winegrapes with a passion. They epitomize community and industry involvement Together they aim to be exceptional stewards. And want the world to know the story of agriculture.
Yet both at one time considered alternative careers. Rich wanted to be a veterinarian. Jason still longs to be a teacher and a coach. Diverse desires. Still, their hands and hearts rest with the land.
Rich says he's the "boss" of their large Monterey County vineyard operation and Paraiso Winery. He mostly guides the winemaking, farm management, research, and even retail ventures. But it's Jason's office that gets the most traffic. He oversees personnel. Makes vineyard decisions. Is the coach - by nature.
For the Smiths being involved in the community and industry is almost as important as farming itself. Jason once told his dad he'd never follow in his parents' footsteps. Get involved with a dozen groups. Become president of everything. Give. Give. Give.
"The truth is, the nut doesn't fall very far from the tree," Rich says.
These days Rich is past president of a list of groups. He's still focused on ag education, offering money more than time. The torch has been passed to Jason.
If he's not farming, he's coaching track or football at the local high schools, joining a community group or representing winegrape growers and farmers. He's considered no other option.
"Whether you like it or not, you need to be involved," Jason says. If you're not involved, you're not as good a farmer as you can be."
If he's not at the winery or on the ranch, Rich is running and hiking to stay healthy. He's also started to travel. And enjoys the company of his six grandchildren. It's too early to know if they'll be the third generaltion of accidental farmers.
Rich:
Education: UC-Davis (agricultural science and management)
Founding Member: Central Coast Vineyard Team
Quote: “I'm mostly past president of everything. I'm officially over the hill.”
Food and Wine Pairings: Pinot Noir with "almost anything"
Passion: Problem Solving
Jason:
Education: UC-Davis (Organzational studies, human development)
Company Mascot: Aero Smith (a golden retriever)
Not Afraid to Admit: He's a beer and whisky drinker
Food and Wine Pairings: Syrah with rib eye
Passion: Teaching
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