About Barefoot Wine Founders

Michael Houlihan and Bonnie Harvey started the Barefoot Wine brand in their laundry room in 1985, made it a nationwide best seller, and successfully sold the brand to E&J Gallo in 2005. Starting with virtually no money and no wine industry experience, they employed innovative ideas to overcome obstacles and create new markets.

They were pioneers in what they termed “Worthy Cause Marketing” and Performance Based Compensation. They held a comprehensive view of customer service resulting in the National Hot Brand Award for outstanding sales growth in 2003 and 2004.

The Book

They now share their experience and innovative approach to business as consultants, authors, speakers, mentors and workshop leaders. Their book, “The Barefoot Spirit,” chronicles the history and lessons learned while building the popular Barefoot Wine brand.