Wine Talk: Mac McDonald

The legendary vintner talks about his decision to retire and close Vision Cellars

Mac McDonald at Vision Cellars in Sonoma, California
Mac McDonald and his wife, Lil, built Vision Cellars into a success story over three decades. (Sarahbeth Maney)

Edward Lee “Mac” McDonald, son of a Texas moonshiner, discovered his passion for wine at age 12 after tasting a bottle of Burgundy. Driven by curiosity and determination, he moved to California in 1962 and immersed himself in the wine world. His breakthrough came through a mentorship with Charlie and Chuck Wagner of Caymus, where he spent 15 years learning viticulture and winemaking.

This article was originally published on June 18, 2025. You can read the full-length version for free here.

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