Mark and Wendy Horvath, long-time figures in the Santa Barbara County wine industry, have embarked on a journey to establish a small, family-run winery that highlights the finest fruit the region has to offer. Their venture, Crawford Family Wines, showcases grapes from esteemed local vineyards such as Babcock, Bentrock, Radian, Rita’s Crown, and Zotovich. Embracing the "garagiste" style of winemaking, they produce tiny lots of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that capture the essence of the unique Sta. Rita Hills vineyards.

Committed to authenticity in varietal character and a sense of place, the Horvaths employ a minimalist approach, allowing the fruit to express itself fully. With a small Rhône program underway sourced from the Ballard Canyon appellation, the winery is evolving into a true showcase of meticulously farmed vineyards.

Mark Crawford Horvath began his winemaking career as a moonlighter alongside his good friend, Master Sommelier Emmanuel Kimiji. This invaluable experience, tasting and learning about wines from around the world with one of the country’s most celebrated sommeliers, helped Mark develop a well-rounded palate. Once captivated by the world of wine, he became determined to create it himself.

Together with Wendy, Mark left their previous jobs and moved to Sonoma to immerse themselves in the wine business. Mark took a position at Carmenet Winery, located high atop Moon Mountain in Sonoma Valley. Starting as a cellar worker, he quickly advanced to the lab, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the winemaking process.

While at Carmenet, Mark pursued various courses offered by UC Davis’ extension program. During a four-day Viticulture course, he met a group of passionate young winemakers from Santa Barbara County. Their enthusiasm for this emerging wine region was contagious, prompting Mark and Wendy to visit the Santa Ynez Valley multiple times over the following year. When Bryan Babcock advertised for an assistant winemaker, Mark seized the opportunity.

At that time, Santa Barbara County had yet to garner significant national attention, and the Sta. Rita Hills had not yet been established as an official appellation. The Horvaths quickly became part of this burgeoning winegrowing region. Mark spent five years at Babcock, the last two as Associate Winemaker, where he oversaw all winemaking responsibilities.

During his tenure at Babcock, Mark launched a side project with his close friend and colleague, Kenneth Gummere. They started with a single barrel of Pinot Noir from the 2000 vintage and, after producing one delicious wine, formed Kenneth-Crawford Wines. Over the next decade, they crafted some of the region’s finest and most sought-after Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Grenache.

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