Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Muir
Hi Kristen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Someone asked me at an event recently, “What did you do before you were in the wine industry?” I smiled and said, “Oh gosh—nothing. This has been it for me!”
Twenty years ago, I studied abroad in Northern Italy as a young student. I visited a local festival celebrating wine and truffles in an effort to connect with the local culture. Oh my, I’ll never forget my first sip of Barolo—often referred to as the King of Wines. The wine was so bold and yet miraculously carried a delicate scent of rose petals. It was unlike anything I had tasted before. Behind the table stood a humble family of farmers, pouring wines crafted with generations of tradition. In that moment, I realized that authentic wines don’t just taste remarkable—they tell a story and bring people together.
That experience set me on a lifelong path to championing wines of integrity. I’ve spent years as a National Sales Director and ambassador for family-owned wineries across California, France, Italy, Spain, and Chile, discovering thousands of small producers crafting extraordinary wines.
I founded Caleb & Rose Wine Company to bring the pride of these wineries to a broader community. At the core, they are small family-owned farmers with organic practices that often lack the marketing budget that bigger brands have. I love being feet on the ground to tell their stories. For me, wine is more than a beverage—it’s an experience. It slows down a meal, elevates flavors, and brings people together. My mission is to help others discover wines that are as rich in character as the stories behind them.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In my twenties, I was fortunate to rise quickly to National Sales Director for a wine importer, traveling the world and showcasing incredible wines. I organized trips with national wine distributors to Italy, Spain, and Chile every year. It was a dream. When I was 30, my husband and I welcomed our daughter. With my husband regularly deploying as an Air Force pilot and a sudden relocation to Germany, I had to step away from my career. It felt like a setback after years of hard work.
The sudden shift in our lives initially hit hard. As I acclimated to living in Europe with a one year old, I was reminded of what a mentor had told me early on in my career in wine. He had said, “You can study wine all day. There are thousands of grape varietals and methods of winemaking. But you’ll never truly learn it until you go and travel to these places”. For the entirety of my twenties, I had dedicated myself to studies and certifications around wine. I achieved an Advanced Certificate from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust by successfully scoring high during blind taste tests. As I arrived in Europe, I realized this was my opportunity to really embrace all that I had learned. I took my daughter on unforgettable treks through the vineyards of Austria, Croatia, Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, and Germany. Watching the sunrise over Burgundy’s golden vineyards was a moment I’ll never forget.
When we returned to the U.S., I wanted a deeper connection with wine consumers and more purpose in my work. Caleb & Rose Wine Company—named after my children’s middle names—became that purpose. Now, I get to share my passion with them every day while supporting my local community through events and charity opportunities.
We’ve been impressed with Caleb & Rose Wine Company, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Caleb & Rose is a boutique wine company located in South Orange County/North San Diego. Through our quarterly Wine Club, online shop, and local events, we curate rotating selections that highlight sustainable, organic, and minimal-intervention wines. All wines are delivered straight to every doorstep, either by local delivery or shipped via one of the major carriers. More than just selling wine, we aim to make it fun, approachable, and a bridge to deeper conversations around the table. We love engaging with the local community by partnering with businesses to host educational events that make wine more accessible and enjoyable. All of our wine selections come from the countless small, family-owned wineries that often never reach grocery store shelves.
What are your plans for the future?
One day, I’d love to open a physical shop and tasting bar—a place where winery producers from around the world can connect directly with the people who love their wines. And ultimately, I hope to pass the business down to my kids.
Pricing:
- 6 Bottle Wine Club – $170+tax – Every 3 Months
- 3 Bottle Wine Club – $90+tax – Every 3 Months
Contact Info:
- Website: https://calebandrose.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calebandrosewine/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-muir-32078b11b
Image Credits
Sarah Eid
