War survivor becomes acclaimed winemaker in California
- Samra's family left Bosnia during the war and relocated to the United States.
- She became a winemaker in Sta. Rita Hills and received a 99-point score for her Chardonnay.
- Her story illustrates a journey of thriving after adversity, linking her past to her current success.
In the backdrop of the Bosnian War, a young girl named Samra was forced to leave her homeland, along with her family, leaving behind her precious pets. As she grew up, her parents encouraged her to pursue a life filled with joy and adventure, which ultimately led her to the United States. Today, she is a talented winemaker in Sta. Rita Hills, California, where she has gained recognition for her exceptional wines, particularly from the El Jabalí Vineyard. With a rich history of winemaking in this region, Richard Sanford first planted Pinot Noir there in 1971, laying the foundation for a thriving wine community. Samra's journey reflects resilience and passion; after experiencing significant trauma in her early life, she is now thriving as a viniculturist. On her birthday, she achieved a milestone by receiving a 99-point score for her 2021 Alma Rosa Chardonnay, a powerful yet elegant wine celebrated for its complex flavors and delicate minerality. Wine critic Jeb Dunnuck praised her work, highlighting her blend as the finest he has tasted from the estate. Her winemaking represents not just a profession but a transformation from survival to thriving, where she is able to draw out a higher potential from her wines while also celebrating her past. Samra's connection to the region is deeply personal, as she draws inspiration from the struggles her family endured during the war. The legacy of Richard Sanford, who remains a mentor and ambassador for Alma Rosa, enhances her journey. His initial vision for the Sta. Rita Hills as a prime location for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir is now being fulfilled through Samra's efforts, bringing the elegance of these wines to fruition. Today, Samra's achievements mark a triumph over adversity. With her family's history fueling her motivation and rigorous attention to winemaking, Samra not only honors her past but also shapes the future of the winery. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of resilience, hope, and the incredible journey from becoming a young survivor to a star in the wine industry, inspiring others along the way.