Isabella Morano: Isa Wines

Ramaytush (Ohlone), Muwekma (Ohlone) land - San Francisco, California

www.drinkisawines.com, @isa.wines

Isa Wines is a community-building passion project led by Isabella Morano. Inspired by her travels to Italy when she was a child, Isabella has devoted her life to the wine industry. She is a jack of all trades. Isabella has elegantly managed the floor as sommelier in the most revered dining spaces in San Francisco, including but not limited to St. Vincent, Petit Cren, NOPA, and Absinthe Brasserie & Bar. She's also developed deep connections in retail spaces like Habibi Wine Bar, Gemini Bottle, and Arlequin Wine Merchant. While serving the Bay Area wine community, she was simultaneouslysneaking away to learn how to make wine by working harvests. Her first harvest was with Martha Stoumen in 2017, then Foradori, Domaine Mosse, and Bedrock Wine Co. before starting her own project during her 2021 harvest with Madson Wines. Isabella collaborates with organic vineyard sites producing wines unique to California. She uses minimal intervention practices in the cellar. Isa Wines are an expression of the delight and beauty of this place she calls home.

Social Justice and Environmental Restoration Statement

Isa Wines currently works with three vineyard partners. When deciding who to collaborate with, I choose to work with farmers who prioritize organic and/or regenerative agriculture practices. At each of the picks, I make it a point to inquire about the pick crew's working conditions and pay. I introduce myself to them and thank them for their hard work and help. There is no individual without community. I was raised with an acute awareness of the benefits of my community and I continue to perpetuate that ethos in my daily life. Community is also the best part about the wine industry. In my decade of working with wine, I’ve learned that we’re all just here to support each other and that is so beautiful. 

In 2023, I decided to donate 2% of my profits to my friends at ABV Ferments. We found each other in 2020 and I am constantly inspired by their commitment to serve our community and lift up BIPOC voices.