The driver-turned-proprietor and podcast host Danica Patrick is living the dream.

PHOTO BY WILL BUCQUOY PHOTOGRAPHY

What is on the horizon for you?

I’m keeping an open mind and focusing on new business opportunities that pop up in the most organic way. I love to interview people for my weekly podcast, Pretty Intense. I learn something new with each interview I do.

You feature so many people on your podcast Pretty Intense. Who is your dream guest?

Can I only pick one? If so, I will say Jesus. I want to know what really happened. Putting aside the obvious obstacle to getting him on a podcast, I’d also really love to talk to George Washington. Exploring the early days of America’s power dynamics and the creation of its government is a newer interest of mine

You are a role model for women, as a racing legend and an entrepreneur. What advice do you wish someone had given you?

I’m very honored that many kids (girls and boys) look up to me as a role model. I grew up wanting to be the best race car driver I could be—not the best female race car driver. I think it’s important that you find something you love and learn how to make a career out of it.

Somnium means “dream” in Latin, and owning your own winery was a dream that has come true! What is your favorite aspect?

It’s so hard to pick a favorite. A huge part of why I started Somnium was to share the beauty of Napa Valley with other people. My first trip to Napa was magical and transformative, with unexpected surprises—and that’s what we aim to do for our guests in Calistoga. Our amazing team at the tasting room also offers guests a true insider’s perspective on our wines, me, and Napa Valley. They’re all born and raised in the valley, going back generations. That’s not very common these days, and I think it appeals to guests wanting to understand what “the real” Napa Valley is.

Can you describe a particularly rewarding or transformative moment in your life?

Visiting Napa Valley for the first time in 2006 was a hugely important turning point for me. I realized how much I wanted to share that magical experience with other people by starting my own Napa Valley winery with gorgeous views and unbelievable wine. That was the moment I dreamed up Somnium and started a whole new adventure in the wine world—both in Napa Valley with Somnium and in the south of France with my newest wine brand, Danica Rosé. It’s been an amazing ride ever since. somniumwine.com