Its been reported that Edna Valley Vineyards will be purchased by E & J Gallo Winery in the next few weeks. Yes the Gallo who started making wine after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933 and grew to become the largest privately held wine company in the world.
The Niven family originally started Edna Valley Vineyards in 1974 when they planted the Paragon Vineyard and then in 1980 built the winery. They have been a big player in the Valley and in the community supporting a range of causes. The Niven’s maintain other winemaking facilities in the Valley and will continue to supply grapes to the winery from their Paragon Vineyard.
Gallo has been involved in the Central Coast wine industry for a number of years and has helped Cal Ploy’s viticulture and enology programs with funds and expertise. They planted a vineyard on the campus back in 1999. Like many large wine companies, Gallo has a broad portfolio of wine brands, including everything from Boones Farm to Barefoot Cellars to Gallo of Sonoma to Bridlewood in Los Olivos. The Edna Valley purchase will fill out their premium wine division and showcase the winery’s focus on Chardonnay.
For a dramatic panoramic view of Edna Valley and the volcanic peaks that dominant the area, plan a visit the Edna Valley Vineyards tasting room and experience the hospitality at our local wineries – large and small.
By Barrie Cleveland
