Lady of the Sunshine

Lady of the Sunshine is the vision of Gina Giugni, a second-generation biodynamic farmer and winemaker whose project is grounded in care, sustainability, and authenticity. Founded in 2017, the label began as a personal journey into farming and natural winemaking, rooted in a desire to cultivate a deeper relationship with the land and to craft wines that are as pure and transparent as possible.

After years of leasing small vineyard plots and sourcing fruit from like-minded growers, Gina and her husband Mikey found their forever home in 2024 with the purchase of the 29-acre Bassi Vineyard, located just a mile from the Pacific Ocean in the San Luis Obispo Coast AVA. Bassi now anchors the estate, forming the heart of their project alongside other organically and biodynamically farmed parcels. Together they farm about 42 acres, applying regenerative practices that respect the natural rhythms of the earth and prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and long-term preservation.

All Lady of the Sunshine wines are made naturally, fermented with native yeasts, bottled without fining or filtration, and with no unnecessary additions. This minimal-intervention approach allows each vineyard to speak for itself, producing wines that reflect the structure, freshness, and texture of the coastal landscape. From crisp and mineral Sauvignon Blanc to elegant Pinot Noir, from delicate rosé to experimental blends, each wine is a love letter to the Central Coast, balancing vibrancy with depth and authenticity.

Gina’s artistry extends beyond the wine itself. Every detail of Lady of the Sunshine is intentional, from the lightweight glass and natural corks to the absence of capsules, emphasizing sustainability and transparency. Each label features hand-stitched embroidery inspired by 1950s patterns, brought to life in collaboration with artist Katie Martin, while corks carry doodles and script in Gina’s handwriting and that of her mother. Even the packaging becomes part of the story, a reflection of family, friendship, and creativity woven into the brand’s identity.

Though relatively young, Lady of the Sunshine has already built a reputation as one of California’s most thoughtful and exciting natural wine projects. The wines are celebrated for their precision, freshness, and ability to capture a sense of place, while Gina herself is recognized as a leading voice among a new generation of farmers and winemakers redefining what it means to produce wine responsibly.

At its heart, Lady of the Sunshine is both a craft and a philosophy: a reminder to farm gently, drink with intention, and approach winemaking as an act of preservation. Every bottle is more than just wine; it is an invitation to connect with the land, honor tradition, and savor the beauty of thoughtful farming expressed in its purest form.

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