Dancing Wines in Sonoma Dry Creek Valley from mother-daughter duo Cynthia Russell and Lauren Russell craft soulful, sensory wines that celebrate flavor, family, and joy.
In Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley, where mist rolls over heritage vines and time slows to the rhythm of the seasons, Cynthia and Lauren Russell are rewriting what wine means. Their family label, Dancing Wines, is more than a vineyard — it’s a celebration of flavor, family, and finding your inner rhythm.
Mother-daughter duo Cynthia and Lauren Russell of Dancing Wines
Through their collection of sensory-driven wines — and soon, fragrances and art collaborations — the mother-daughter team is on a mission to make wine approachable, emotional, and deeply human.
“Love needs no explanation,”
says Lauren
echoing the brand’s mantra.
And at Dancing Wines, neither does joy.
“Dancing Is Art and Art Is Life”
When Lauren Russell talks about wine, she does so like a painter describing color — intuitive, emotional, and a little rebellious.
“Dancing is art and art is life,”
Lauren Russell
“We want people to find their unique rhythms.
Wine brings people together to enjoy a moment — and to celebrate diversity and connection.”
Lauren represents the new generation of wine lovers — curious, expressive, fun-loving — who don’t need to memorize tasting notes to feel something. “You can’t drink wine when your mouth is full of adjectives,” she laughs.
Dancing Wines in Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley craft soulful, sensory wines
Her mother, Cynthia Russell, adds perspective rooted in experience and elegance.
“Wine used to feel intimidating,” she admits.
“But the truth is, winemaking today is so good that all you really have to do is relax and enjoy it. We want people to feel comfortable — to just have fun and celebrate what wine can do to bring people together.”
That philosophy — equal parts sophistication and spontaneity — defines the Dancing Wines ethos.
A Vineyard Reborn
The Russells’ journey began, like many good stories, with a little serendipity — and a lot of wine.
“It was a Covid purchase,”
Cynthia recalls with a smile.
“We were a family in close quarters, drinking wine together, and thought we needed space to breathe.”
What they found was a historic vineyard with 150-year-old Zinfandel vines and generations of Italian heritage behind it.
Dancing Wines in Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley
Rather than letting that legacy fade, they chose to revive it. “We never planned to make wine,” Cynthia says, “but we couldn’t let this history die.”
Lauren explains how they’ve balanced tradition and innovation ever since:
“Mom brings deep respect for old-world craftsmanship,
and I push toward new ideas and playful branding.
Somewhere in the middle, we find our balance —
classic meets modern.”
That harmony shows in their wines: Old Vine, Estate, and Duo, each revealing a different side of Dry Creek’s terroir and the family’s evolving artistry.
Beyond the Glass: A Sensory Celebration
Dancing Wines isn’t stopping at wine. The Russells are building a collection of sensory brands that engage taste, touch, and aroma — including a trio of fragrances inspired by their vineyard’s natural perfume of “moss, oak, barrel, and crushed grapes.”
“Every time we arrive,”
Cynthia says
“we breathe in the land — it’s so distinct. That’s what we want people to feel through our products.”
They’re also curating art from diverse West Coast artists and envision an artist-in-residence program, blending creativity, community, and craft.
It’s a vision that feels right at home in Sonoma, a region where Michelin-starred dining, redwood hikes, and the hum of nature coexist with rustic simplicity. As Lauren says, “Sonoma has this underdog energy to Napa. It’s soulful — and that’s what we want our brand to be.”
Wines That Dance
The Russells’ current lineup showcases their playful yet refined style:
-
Rosé (Primitivo-based): Vibrant and dry, with notes of watermelon and Jolly Rancher — a summer in a glass.
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Old Vine Zinfandel: Rich, moody, and bold, from their oldest head-trained vines.
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Estate (Primitivo): Light, elegant, and food-friendly.
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Duo Blend: A marriage of the two — structured yet smooth, like a duet between generations.
-
Upcoming Sparkling Wines: Two distinct releases — one youthful and effervescent, the other toasty and refined.
“Sparkling wine and a burger is one of my favorite pairings,” Lauren laughs. “It’s unexpected — but that’s the point. We want people to have fun.”
Cynthia agrees: “Our Zinfandel pairs with everything — Indian, Mexican, even spicy or sweet dishes. It’s not fragile. It’s full of life.”
Finding Your Inner Dance
At the heart of Dancing Wines lies a message that transcends viticulture: celebrate who you are and the people you love. Whether you’re sipping rosé by the ocean, hosting friends in your kitchen, or hiking through redwoods at sunrise, it’s all about connection.
As Lauren puts it: “We want people to find their inner dance — whatever moves them.”
To explore the collection or plan a visit, head to wearedancing.com or follow @DancingSonoma on Instagram. For behind-the-scenes interviews, check out their YouTube channel — and prepare to fall in love with flavor, family, and the rhythm of the vines.
FAQ
Q: Where is Dancing Wines located?
A: Dancing Wines is based in Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, a historic region known for Zinfandel and sustainable farming.
Q: What makes Dancing Wines unique?
A: Their sensory-driven philosophy blends art, aroma, and emotion, creating wines and experiences that celebrate individuality and connection.
Q: Can I visit or taste their wines?
A: Yes. Visit their website to learn about upcoming tastings, limited releases, and future events on their estate.
The Final Pour
With every swirl and sip, Cynthia and Lauren Russell invite us to slow down, savor, and celebrate. In a world obsessed with perfection, Dancing Wines reminds us that real flavor — like real love — is found in motion, laughter, and togetherness.
Here’s to finding your rhythm. And maybe, your favorite Zinfandel too.
Dancing Wines in Sonoma Dry Creek Valley from mother-daughter duo Cynthia Russell and Lauren Russell craft soulful, sensory wines that celebrate flavor, family, and joy.
