#WCW: Wining and Dining with Dalia Ceja

Dalia Ceja knows that it takes much more than good grapes to make the perfect glass of wine. The Mexican-American businesswoman credits her family’s long history in the industry and authentic traditions for every delicious glass.

Ceja is the face of the Napa and Sonoma Valley vineyards, where she puts her food and travel passions to work as the Brand Marketing Manager of Ceja Vineyards.

Watch the short video below to hear how Ceja juggles the many hats of being a female winemaker, and read the interview up ahead to see why she’s this week’s Woman Crush Wednesday!

(Video credit: Mode Studios)

How did your parents’ immigration here have an influence on your own life/career path?

I’m very proud of my Mexican heritage and roots. I’m second generation Mexican-American and watched my parents overcome all odds to go from vineyard workers (campesinos) to winery owners. They’ve shown me that you can achieve the American Dream regardless of one’s humble origins. Education has also played a huge factor in my success and pursuing my Executive MBA at Sonoma State University focused in Wine Marketing has allowed me to contribute to my family’s business. 

How do you make sure to keep the family tradition in every bottle of wine?

We are 100% family run and operated and have complete control of every aspect of the business. There is a saying in our family that goes… “we don’t have blood in our veins, we have wine.” It is a reflection of my family’s passion and dedication to leaving a legacy in the wine industry. 

How do you think Ceja Vineyards differs from other non-Latino vineyards?

As a millennial Latina in the wine industry, I’ve been able to elevate our brand by utilizing social media platforms to engage with Ceja fans around the world. We are utilizing all forms of technology to bring awareness of our Mexican heritage while producing world-class wines. It’s an exciting time to be in the wine industry and this is just the beginning for Team Ceja! 

What’s the most important thing to note when pairing your wines with authentic Mexican food, or any other cuisines?

First and foremost, our focus is in making wines that stand out by themselves and equally compliment world-wide cuisine. At Ceja, we are committed to making wines with moderate alcohol content and crisp acidity to pair with all of the food we love including authentic Mexican cuisine. I grew up cooking alongside my mom, Amelia Ceja, and she taught me to be open to unique flavor combinations in both wine and food. 

Can you share some of your favorite wine and food pairings?

Salmon Ceviche paired with Ceja Pinot Noir is one of the most perfect culinary marriages because of the elegant and dark cherry notes of the wine in contrast to the tender salmon marinated in lime juice for hours. A Mole Poblano served with chicken breast and cilantro infused rice paired with Ceja Cabernet Sauvignon is simply magical.