Mari grew up playing, camping, and even learning to drive on her father's Sonoma–Cutrer Estate. At the age of 12, she took her first trip to Burgundy with her father to buy barrels. It was there that Mari discovered Pinot Noir, and, she was hooked.

After earning a degree in philosophy at Colgate University, Mari spent several years working at the Telluride Adaptive Sports Program before returning to Sonoma in 2012 to work with her father, and his team, whom she had known her whole life.

At Emeritus Vineyards Mari has let the transition and transformation of that team to the next generation of Pinot Noir icons. Like her father, she believes in a collaborative approach that empowers the talented team. In her role as President, she brings the experience and dynamism of a dedicated second generation to her family-run winery. She oversees all aspects of Emeritus Vineyards, working alongside Vineyard Managers Kirk and Riggs Lokka and Winemaker Keith Hammond to cultivate the highest standards of excellence at Emeritus Vineyards. With her leadership both estate vineyards have become certified carbon negative and Emeritus Vineyards has been named a “Best Place to Work’. Mari has been recognized as a ’40 Under 40’ and with an ‘Excellence in Sustainability’ award.

When not at the winery or traveling the world to share Emeritus, you can find Mari snowboarding, hiking with her dog, Mocha, serving on various community boards, or volunteering.