How a Winery Worker Started a Wildfire that Lasted 17 Days, Wrecked Vintages

On Aug. 21, 2025, Juan Luis Gutierrez Marfil disposed of some hot ashes into a burn pile. The resulting wildfire lasted 17 days, destroyed on home and four outbuildings.

A number of winegrape growers abandoned their vintages owing to smoke taint they blamed on the fire. Total dmage was estimated at $56 million plus $1.7 million for other agricultural commodities and farm structures.

Hundred Acre Wine spokesman said Marfil was a contractor working for Woodbridge and not a winery employee. In April a Cal Fire enfocement officer cited him two two felonies and two misdemeanors related to the fire. He has now been charged with recklessly causing the fire of a structure or forest.