A Winemaker on the Move

Kenny Likitprakong spent his late teens and early twenties chasing the romance of the American hobo: moving from place to place, working harvests and soaking up experience. In 2002 he turned that wanderlust into Hobo Wine Company in Santa Rosa, a winery built on friendship, curiosity and a refusal to take wine too seriously. Today Hobo includes several labels, some made with his family and friends. For drinkers who want to buy California natural wine online from an independent producer with real heart, Hobo is a great discovery.

The Birth of Folk Machine

In 2005, Kenny saw a gap in the market for good, affordable Pinot Noir, and Folk Machine was born. Over the years the label has become his creative outlet, a place to work with lesser-known vineyards and unusual grape varieties from across California. The wines are playful, fresh and designed for everyday drinking, without sacrificing quality or integrity.

Long-Term Growers, Organic Farming

Hobo owns no vineyards. Instead, Kenny partners with growers he has known for years, many of them farming organically or biodynamically. Those relationships let him source distinctive fruit while supporting the people who grow it. His commitment to sustainability, in the vineyard, the winery and the business, earned Hobo the 2026 California Green Medal Business Award.

"White Light"

White Light is Kenny's answer to the question of what a fresh, mineral California white can be. It is built around Tocai Friulano, prized for its salty, briny character, with Riesling and Verdelho adding fruit and aromatics, along with smaller amounts of other aromatic grapes in some vintages. Expect lemon, green apple and white flowers with a saline snap and bright acidity. It is a natural partner for seafood, salads and pizza night.

Why Folk Machine Matters Today

Folk Machine proves that wine made with care, from organic vineyards, does not have to be expensive or serious. For customers of Harvest Wine Shop San Diego, it is an easy, joyful bottle of artisanal California wine made by one of the state's most thoughtful independent winemakers.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Who makes Folk Machine?

Kenny Likitprakong of Hobo Wine Company in Santa Rosa, California.

2. What is Hobo Wine Company?

An independent winery Kenny founded in 2002. It includes Folk Machine and several other labels.

3. Why is it called Hobo?

It is a tribute to the wandering American hobo, whose freedom Kenny admired while traveling to work harvests in his youth.

4. Does Hobo own vineyards?

No. Kenny sources from long-term grower partners, many farming organically or biodynamically.

5. What grapes are in "White Light"?

It is led by Tocai Friulano with Riesling and Verdelho, plus smaller amounts of other aromatic grapes in some vintages.

6. What does "White Light" taste like?

Lemon, green apple and white flowers with a salty, briny edge and zippy acidity.

7. Is Folk Machine organic?

Hobo focuses on organically and biodynamically farmed vineyards. Check individual labels for certification details.

8. What is Tocai Friulano?

A white grape from northeast Italy, known for fresh, almond-tinged and slightly salty wines.

9. What food pairs with "White Light"?

• Seafood: Fish tacos, oysters, grilled shrimp
  
• Casual: Pizza, fried chicken, sandwiches
  
• Fresh: Green salads, vegetable dishes
  
• Spicy: Thai and Vietnamese food
  

10. Is it a good everyday wine?

Absolutely. It is affordable, refreshing and versatile with food.

11. What award did Hobo win?

Hobo Wine Company received the 2026 California Green Medal Business Award for its sustainability efforts.

12. When did Folk Machine start?

In 2005, originally to make affordable Pinot Noir.

13. How should I serve it?

Serve well chilled, around 45 to 50°F.

14. Where can I buy Folk Machine online?

You can buy Folk Machine at Harvest Wine Shop San Diego, specializing in independent California and natural-leaning wine, with shipping to California and select states.