OUR family

In the early 1900s Italian families. . .

Lorenzi and De Ambrogio planted Zinfandel vines in parts of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. This region, now known as the Cucamonga Valley, still produces grapes from these 100-year-old vines. Don Lorenzi remembers the smell of fermenting grapes at his grandparents’ home. In 2000 Don’s cousin, Steve De Ambrogio, gave him 20 vines cloned from these original 100-year-old vines. With a little luck, these vines were fruitful and soon Lorenzi was experimenting with small batches of wine for friends.

One barrel led to another and the garage was enlarged to create a dedicated winemaking area. Lorenzi began crafting small barrels of wine from a variety of grapes including Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Syrah. This passion grew and soon he was making enough wine to give to friends, clients and charitable groups as well. Grapes from legendary vineyards formed the genesis of the Lorenzi private label. He has now built one of Southern California’s premium wineries. His simple hands-on approach: study the wines he loves, study how they are made, and source or grow the fruit needed to make them. Most importantly, he insists on shepherding the wine from fruit to bottle. What makes a great small lot, handcrafted artisan wine? A wine made by a wine lover. Don makes a wine lover’s wine.