With a family winemaking history that stretches back to 1886, it is clear that Robert Renzoni has passion for family and for wine in his blood. Each generation from great grandpa Federico to Robert, who has been making wine on and off since he was six years old, has a fascinating story that can be found on the Robert Renzoni Vineyards website.
Robert Renzoni Vineyards rendering (Courtesy image)
“Our family history is important to us,” said Renzoni. “We have generations of passion and commitment to making the best wine possible. I am proud to carry that tradition forward.”
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Renzoni has a keen eye on the future. The recent consolidation of all wine production to the Renzoni property and the addition of a new crush pad and tank pad are all in preparation for the next step in their growth: a new tasting room and event center, projected to break ground by the end of the year.
“The building is modeled after an 1800s-style Tuscan Villa to honor my family’s heritage,” said Renzoni, indicating that the villa will include underground barrel storage, a spacious tasting room, a private tasting room for wine club members and 4,500 square feet of patio space where guests will be able order simple fare like wood-fired pizzas, salads and paninis.
As with his wine, Renzoni cares about every detail.
“I designed the building myself,” he said. “I wanted it to be true to my family’s heritage, so as we complete the project, we will likely bring in a consultant to make sure the old-world details are as authentic as possible.”
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One detail in particular is sure to transport guests to the Italian countryside.
“The villa will have a 45-foot bell tower which will chime at the open and close of business each day,” said Renzoni. “A bell tower is a central feature in many small Italian villages, so it was important to me that we included it in the design.”
Renzoni anticipates that the new tasting room will dramatically increase traffic to the winery.
Robert Renzoni (Courtesy photo)
“Most of our wine club members are die-hards,” said Renzoni. “They brave the unpaved driveway and warehouse tasting room because they just love our wines. We know that the added amenities will bring a lot more guests our way.”
Production will, of course, increase to meet the demand, making it all the more critical that the winemaking operation be entirely on property.
Renzoni has dealt with a major jump in production in the past — the winery produces 10,000 cases per year, up from 3,000 at opening four years ago – so he is ready to meet the demand.
“The wine comes first, always,” Renzoni said. “We will not compromise quality for quantity. Now that I have everything under my roof and my nose, the sky is the limit. The quality of the vintages over the next couple of years will be elevated exponentially.”
Robert Renzoni Vineyards is located at 37350 De Portola Road, Temecula.
Visit robertrenzonivineyards.com to learn more.
Corie Maue is a local writer and regular contributor to SWRNN.
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We love Robert Renzoni wines. This is a great update on what’s happening at this wonderful winery.
We love the Renzoni Family and their wine! Great family; great wine!