This MacMurray-Gallo link might sound like an odd couple, but it really isn't. Film and TV star Fred MacMurray enjoyed the ranch as a getaway and working farm, and when his family put it up for sale in 1996 after his death, they followed his orders to sell it to a "family" who would promise to keep the land in agriculture and his fence line intact. Gallo honored his wishes and now his daughter, Kate MacMurray, a former screenwriter, is spokesperson for the winery. Gallo planted vines and the winery was born in 2000.

MacMurray Ranch Winery is smack in the middle of Sonoma County's cool-climate Russian River Valley, with wine neighbors such as Rochioli and Gary Farrell. The mantra from Gino Gallo has been to make great MacMurray Pinot Noir. She personally chose Susan Doyle, who grew up on a beef and apple farm in Tasmania, as the winemaker. After training, she made Pinot Noir in Australia and consulted in the United States.

MacMurray Ranch farms 1,100 acres and produces 128,960 cases annually. 80% of the fruit comes from estate vineyards.

Three appellation blend Pinot Noirs are produced: Central Coast, Sonoma Coast and Russian River Valley. They are reasonably priced and widely available. The Russian River Valley Pinot Gris is recommended.