Rooted in Place
Just down the road from our tasting room, thousands of monarchs return each year to the Monarch Butterfly Grove in Pismo Beach, making this region one of the largest overwintering sites in the country. That seasonal rhythm of return and renewal – along with the coastal air, vineyard landscapes, and slower pace of life – is part of what makes this place so special, and part of what inspires the name Monarch Grove Winery.
Our wines begin with this sense of place. We have a genuine respect for the farmers, vineyards, and hands that nurture each grape. We work with growers who care about their land, their fruit, and the process of making wine – from vine to harvest to bottle. We carry that gratitude and stewardship into every wine we produce.
Meet Julie
Julie’s path to wine has been anything but traditional.
Raised in a strong family with Mexican and Indigenous heritage, Julie developed a foundation of hard work, determination, and continuous learning. Adventurous and naturally curious, she has always been drawn to new experiences, different cultures, and the ways people gather around food and drink.
A former USC basketball player (Fight on!) and career physical therapist, she spent decades helping others rebuild strength and resilience. Wine came later in life, inspired by her travels and curiosity about the craft itself. Once she stepped into the world of winemaking, she fully embraced the opportunity to learn — studying the process, asking questions, and immersing herself in every aspect of winemaking. Today, that same curiosity, discipline, and drive shape her approach to winemaking.
Meet Ercilia
Ercilia brings heart, perspective, and a sense of connection to Monarch Grove Winery.
Born in the Azores, Portugal, and raised in California’s Central Valley, her Portuguese heritage, traditions, close-knit family and sense of hard work shaped who she is today. Traditional Portuguese food and winemaking have always been central to her family life. Both in California and in the Azores, her family has made wine for generations, and that tradition continues today.
Her professional path spans Behavioral Health in both education and counseling, with a lifelong focus on helping people navigate growth, change, and healing. She brings that same care into the tasting room, where she creates a space that feels warm and welcoming.
Together
Together, Julie and Ercilia have created something that reflects who they are – a true partnership built on love, respect, and shared vision.
For Julie and Ercilia, wine is a way for people to connect. Around a table, across cultures, and among strangers who quickly become friends. They love the way wine invites conversation, laughter, and meaningful moments.
They envision Monarch Grove as a space that brings people together – warm, welcoming, and centered on kindness. A place where everyone belongs, where stories are shared, and where community is created one glass at a time.
Transformation
Like the monarch butterfly, their journey is one of transformation.
From grape to glass, wine itself is a transformation – shaped over time into something expressive, vibrant, and alive. Julie and Ercilia are grateful to the original owners, Joe and Cherie Wais, for laying the foundation of Monarch Grove Winery. Their vision and dedication made it possible to carry this story forward – and to shape its next chapter with care.