CALIFORNIA SUNGOLD: Our Story

Our family-run business of California Sungold began as an investment, and evolved into a way of life...

In 1983, my wife and I purchased 20 acres of pistachio trees. We both had other jobs; myself in the dairy business, and my wife as a high school English teacher.

The first crop of pistachios presented a financial dilemma: a large mortgage payment was due that we didn't have money to pay for; and the money for the crop wouldn't come in until after the mortage payment was due. With necessity being the mother of invention, we hand packaged our nuts and went on the road to try and sell them. We were successful, we made our first payment, and our nut business was born at that moment, evolving into a full-time livelihood.

In 1998, we expanded our family with the addition of Natalie, our beautiful daughter. The business was also expanding.

We now have our warehouse in the town of Oakhurst CA (nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains just 20 minutes from Yosemite National Park) where we package, store and ship our products. We have 3 year-round employees, and we hire local seasonal help for the holidays.

Our original pistachio acreage has expanded to 79 acres; and in addition to selling our delicious pistachios, our product line includes chocolate and toffee covered nut and fruits, gourmet organic chocolate bars, caramel corn, and an array of gift baskets filled with the best California has to offer.

We feel fortunate to be doing something we love, and selling products that people really enjoy!

Sincerely,