The Reids have roots in the Napa Valley that go back to the mid 19th century. Kirk’s great-great grandparents met at the Napa Hotel in 1862. They married and settled near Calistoga where they farmed the land and served as guides for East Coast tourists who visited The Geysers. Their daughter, Kirk’s great-grandmother, was born in Calistoga in 1875. Kirk and Karen’s interest in winemaking began in 1978 after settling in the Napa Valley. Kirk, a family physician, established a medical practice. Their winemaking hobby gradually evolved into Reid Family Vineyards. Their first vineyard was planted in 1992.
Kirk was born in Palo Alto and grew up in Los Altos, California. After graduating from Occidental College in Los Angeles, he enjoyed some time as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Philippines. He attended medical school at the University of Hawaii and the University of California,Davis. Kirk is fond of pointing out that the practice of medicine and the making of great wine both require blending science and art.
Karen also grew up in Los Altos. She studied art at UC Berkeley and, after graduation taught English as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Micronesia. When the children were teenagers, she became manager of Kirk’s medical office. A skilled designer, Karen created the J.Kirkwood and Reid Family Vineyards labels.
Together Kirk and Karen raised three children, Kevin, Kyla, and Bay. As children, the Reid kids helped make the homemade wine. As adults, they enjoy sharing Reid Family Vineyards wines with friends across the country.
