Our guest blogger, Sandra Beals with Experience Murphys, offers a glimpse into some wine and hospitality history in the storybook town of Murphys, CA. Sandra captures owner Michael Ninos’ love for a community grateful for his contributions that shaped Murphys into such a beautiful place to be…
It all began with a chance meeting between the late Barden Stevenot and Michael Ninos in 1985 when he was the owner of a chain of stores called Wine Emporium. At that time, Michael was changing the way consumers explored wine by allowing customers to taste a variety of wines both domestically and globally. Barden was a pioneer of the Calaveras County wine scene and met with Michael to share his Gold Country wines with the hope of being featured at the Wine Emporium stores across the nation. Michael shares, “Barden and I became fast friends as we traveled to New Orleans among many other destinations. After our trip to New Orleans, Barden’s wines were featured on Continental Airlines flights and the Stevenot brand was discovered by the masses. Soon after, I visited Barden’s home – Shaw Ranch outside of Murphys and decided to make this area my home.
In 1990, Michael moved to Murphys, and that same year, the Kautz family opened Ironstone Vineyards with the help of winemaker Steve Millier. Steve also migrated to Calaveras Wine Country thanks to Barden, who hired him to help expand Stevenot Winery. In 2000, Michael purchased the “Miners Exchange” building that included the Red Bud Inn. After a remodel, the Victoria Inn opened with just four rooms at the time. Today, this beautiful B&B features 12 rooms and is a favorite of visitors to the Gold Rush Era town. Michael recalled the Renaissance period of Murphys when Grounds Restaurant opened in 1992. “Restaurateur River Klass moved here from Hollywood and had studied at the Sorbonne. He brought an important vision to our small town and opened Grounds as a bakery, coffee, and sandwich shop. Our hotel guests enjoyed the early days at Grounds, where the town gathered to chat over coffee and scones. His evolution into one of the top fine dining restaurants in our area has been remarkable.”
River took a moment to share his congratulations, “For 25 years, the Victoria Inn has been more than a place to stay — it’s been a pillar of hospitality, a reflection of Michael’s dedication, and a cherished part of the community. Here’s to a legacy built on warmth, service, and heart!”
In 2005, the Newsome Harlow Tasting Room opened in the historic downtown of Murphys, across the main street from the Victoria Inn. Winemaker Scott Klann grew up in the area and after his time in Long Beach, returned to the area to try his hand at winemaking. He trained with the visionaries of our wine region – Barden Stevenot and Chuck Hovey. After making wine for seven years at Stevenot Winery, four years at Chatom, and nine years at Twisted Oak, Scott decided to launch his own wine brand. His long-time grower relationships and more than two decades as a winemaker have helped put Calaveras County wines on the map. “His Killer Zins are a favorite of many wine enthusiasts our way”, shares Michael Ninos. In recognition of the anniversary celebrations, Scott shared this sentiment, “As we also celebrate our 25th anniversary at Newsome Harlow this year, it give us great reason to look back at the fabric of this town. Michael and the Victoria Inn have been such a centerpiece of what has evolved over the last quarter century here. It’s an honor to call him trusted partner as well as a good friend for over 30 years. Congrats Michael!”
By 2019, the Murphys Main Street wine scene had grown to over 20 tastings rooms. That same year, Michael had the opportunity to purchase Dunbar House 1880 down the road from the Victoria Inn. He gave this historic space an update and renamed it the “Historic Dunbar House Inn,” featuring six unique guest rooms and an event space, this magical property has become a favorite gathering space.
Long-time friend and co-owner of Hovey Winery, Brian Klassen reflects, “Michael is an integral part of the Murphys community through his business leadership and personal generosity – the many things that support our special little town. Congratulations!”
This past year, Michael launched ExperienceMurphys.com to showcase his two Downtown B&Bs and 13 Vacation Rentals throughout Murphys. Visitors to the area can access Travel Guides and Trip Planning Services to plan the perfect getaway.
Join Michael and the town of Murphys in celebrating 25 years of warm and luxurious lodging from July to December 2025 with exclusive events, a local vintner party, and more!
