With over 20 years of agricultural experience, Rafeal expertly manages the land at Thistlerock according to regenerative practices that restore the natural health of the soil – and the flowers that flourish here – without the use of pesticides or herbicides. Beginning his career in California wine country, Rafael was previously the vineyard manager for a number of Virginia vineyards. Rafael is as skilled in making things grow as he is in building Thistlerock Mead Company’s legendary bonfires and scoring goals on the soccer pitch.