As we say goodbye to April showers and embrace the arrival of May and its flowers, we also celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Month (AANHPI). The theme for this year is ‘Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together,’ “highlighting the importance of leveraging [AANHPI's] collective power, telling [their] stories, and being bridge builders in [their] communities.” One of our favorite producers, Kenny Likitprakong of Hobo Wine Company, represents all this and more. 

The brainchild of Kenny, Hobo Wine Company refers to his winemaking experiences traveling and working from place to place. It also applies to the fact that Kenny doesn't own his own vineyards, but sources fruit from vineyard owners who he has longstanding relationships with around California, some of which he worked with before starting Hobo Wine.

Committed to a value system that extends beyond financial progress, Hobo Wine is focused on creating outstanding organic and biodynamic wines with style, verve, and accessible prices. The winery is committed to sustainable packaging including a high percentage of recycled glass (all domestic) and natural corks. Their labels are eye-catching and without capsules, helping to eliminate waste. On the back of the labels, it is noted that they’re a member of 1% for the Planet, an organization started by the founders of Patagonia to facilitate donations to green organizations. Kenny donates 1% of his gross sales to non-profits.

On top of all that, Hobo Wine Company is the 2026 recipient of the California Green Medal Business Award, recognizing their efforts in the vineyard, at the winery, and beyond when it comes to sustainability and running a thoughtful business. 

Under the Hobo Wine Company umbrella, Kenny has eight different wine labels, some of which are collaborations with friends, his dad, and his wife, Lynn Wheeler. Amongst those labels, we’re currently highlighting two wines from Folk Machine and one wine from Camp:

Folk Machine 

In 2005, Kenny saw a gap in the market for more affordable Pinot Noir, and Folk Machine was born. A little more fun and experimental, this label has grown to house more obscure vineyards and varieties from around California.

Redwood Valley Valdiguie 2023

A dark red in the glass, this Valdiguie is bursting with bright red and black fruit, mouthwatering freshness, supple structure, and a fun finish that lingers sip after sip. It’s perfect with a slight chill, alongside soft cheeses, pan-seared salmon, and pasta with light cream sauce.

Potter Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2025

This is a wine for people who love French-style Sauv. Blancs over New Zealand-style. Organic and biodynamic, this refreshing white wine is lean and bright with crisp notes of citrus and stone fruits. Pair it with seafood, lemon herb roasted chicken, goat cheese, and pesto pastas.

Camp

Named after the idea of Hobo Camp and teaching others the Hobo way, Camp was created in 2011 to showcase the quality and value of North Coast wine. For this label, Kenny works with top growers and vineyard managers in high-quality and responsibly farmed vineyards to produce delicious, approachable, and affordable wines. 

North Coast Merlot 2024

Made from organically farmed grapes, this red wine is made from 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, that were aged for 11 months in neutral French oak barrels. It’s bursting with velvety fruit notes of blackberry, dark fruits, and slight spice. Try it alongside burgers, pizza, and BBQ fare. 

Looking to explore other wines from Hobo Wine Company? Check them out here. 

Photos Courtesy of Hobo Wine Company