BOB MULLEN - scmwine/Wineries GitHub Wiki
February 12, 1926 - November 24, 2025
Founder of Woodside Vineyards, one of the earliest wineries in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Born in Ohio. Served in the U.S. Navy during both WWII and the Korean War. Survived the torpedoing of USS Welke, where 26 lives were lost.
After the war, moved to Woodside with wife Polly. Initially partnered with the Groetzinger family who made wine from the old La Questa Vineyards (established by Emmet Rixford in 1884).
Purchased property on Kings Mountain Road in Woodside and established Woodside Vineyards as a bonded winery in 1963. At that time, only two other wineries existed in the Santa Cruz Mountains: Bargetto Winery in Soquel and Ridge Vineyards on Montebello Ridge. David Bruce Winery would be established the following year in 1964.
Shortly before his passing, Bob sold the assets and inventory of Woodside Vineyards to longtime friend Jerold O'Brien of Silver Mountain Vineyards.
60th anniversary celebration of Woodside Vineyards held in 2023 at the new location in San Carlos.
Celebration of life held February 14, 2026 at Woodside Village Church.
One of the pioneering winemakers of the Santa Cruz Mountains, helping establish the region alongside contemporaries like Ken Burnap, Dave Bennion, and David Bruce.
- Edible Monterey Bay coverage of Woodside 60th anniversary (2023)
- Edible Monterey Bay tribute (2025)