Mark McWilliams, born and raised in Texarkana, Texas, is the son of Al and Janis McWilliams, founders of Arista. After graduating from the University of Texas – Austin with a degree in Corporate Communications, Mark took his first job out of college working for Kendall Jackson Wine Estates. What started as a temporary summer job developed into a passion as Mark enrolled in UC Davis Wine and Viticulture courses, tasting groups, and annoyed his winemaker friends with endless questions. During his time with Kendall Jackson, Mark held various positions encompassing vineyard operations, harvest logistics, and cellar work. Following his time at Kendall-Jackson, Mark continued his passion for wine and pursuit of industry knowledge by working as a wine consultant for a wine and spirits distributor based in Dallas, Texas. In 2013, Mark and his brother Ben made a long term commitment to Sonoma, purchasing Arista Winery from their parents. Today, Mark manages the day to day operations at the winery. Mark and his wife Jennifer live in Healdsburg, California with their sons Jake and Pierce and their daughters Macie and Maggie.