In this week’s Best of Raleigh episode, we pop bottles and dive into the sparkling world of wine, entrepreneurship, and community impact with Jenny Farmer and Paula Kornell. What began as a casual appreciation for Cabernet has transformed into a full-bodied adventure—one that’s now deeply rooted in both Napa Valley and right here in Raleigh.

Meet Jenny and Paula: Two Women, One Shared Sparkle
Jenny Farmer, a Raleigh resident with roots in Michigan, never expected that a simple visit to Napa would change her life. Alongside her husband Mike, Jenny fell in love with the region’s beauty and wine culture. Fast forward ten years, and the couple is now behind ZFG—a boutique Cabernet label that’s as bold as it is elegant.

Their journey wouldn’t be complete without Paula Kornell, a fourth-generation winemaker and Napa native whose family legacy includes pioneering sparkling wines in California. Known for her small-batch “bubbles” and her unwavering dedication to tradition and taste, Paula joined forces with Jenny to bring her wines to Raleigh—and the timing couldn’t be more perfect.

A Sparkling Partnership Rooted in Story and Soil

Paula’s deep knowledge of the wine world and Jenny’s enthusiasm for community and connection have made them the perfect pair. Their collaboration brings together the robust flavors of Napa with the warmth and welcome of Raleigh.

ZFG’s signature Cabernet is crafted from grapes in Oakville—home to some of Napa’s most prestigious vineyards—while Paula’s sparkling wines are rooted in family tradition and small-batch excellence. Together, they’re introducing Triangle wine lovers to a truly refined yet approachable experience.

Raleigh Meets Napa: A Wine Scene on the Rise

Now, their wines can be found in some of Raleigh’s best-loved spots—Angus Barn, Hummingbird, SmokeStacks Café, and Taylor’s Wine Shop, with plans to expand even further. Their involvement in the Triangle Wine & Food Experience not only raises their local profile but also supports Frankie Lemmon School, a cause both women champion passionately.

As Jenny puts it, “You walk through that school and meet the families—it’s a no-brainer. This is exactly where we want our energy to go.”

More Than a Label—A Lifestyle

From creating the perfect rosé hue to learning the ins and outs of distribution and licensing, Jenny and Paula are building more than a business—they’re creating a lifestyle. Their brands celebrate hard work, hospitality, and a little sparkle in every glass.

Jenny jokes, “I send my girlfriends photos from tastings and say, ‘This is my job.’” But behind the laughter is a real passion for craft, connection, and bringing joy into people’s lives—whether through a dinner pairing or a surprise bottle gifted to a friend.

Cheers to the Future

Both ZFG and Paula Kornell Bubbles are poised for growth—carefully and intentionally. With small-batch integrity and local enthusiasm, they’re committed to keeping quality high and the experience personal.

As Paula says, “Mother Nature’s in charge, and that keeps us humble.” And as their wines begin popping up on more Raleigh shelves, one thing’s for certain: the future is bright—and bubbly.

Connect, Sip, and Celebrate

To explore their wines or shop online, visit paulakornell.com and look for ZFG at local wine retailers. Whether you’re a cab connoisseur or a bubbly enthusiast, this duo brings a taste of Napa to your North Carolina table.

Listen to the full episode on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube, and discover how two women, one label, and a whole lot of heart are Showing Raleigh’s Best—one glass at a time.