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D'Argenzio

Interview with D'Argenzio's Winemaker and Co-Founder, Ray D'Argenzio

D'Argenzio Winery is a family winery in the truest Italian sense. There are three generations of the D'Argenzio family working together to bring the finest handcrafted wines.

Training

I grew up in a family winemaking business. In the early 1990s, my brother, Richard, and I started playing around with our own wine. Our first vintage was 1993 -  100 cases of Zinfandel that sold out. Each year we would double our production and we continued to sell out. Now we produce 3,000 cases of dozen or more varietals at the winery.

What is your inspiration or philosophy for making wine?

Our style of wine is always food-friendly to compliment the meal. Also we pride ourselves on being handcrafted. We come from long line of families who have made handcrafted goods. Our ancestors were silversmiths. At the winery everything is hand-done. We want to be as gentle with the grapes as possible. This gives more benefit in the end.

When did you start making wine and how long have you been with your current vineyard?

My father and grandfather supervised my winemaking when I was just child. I started making wine on my own in the late 1970s a young boy. Richard and I founded D’Argenzio Winery in 1994.

What are your thoughts on the link between wine and charity?

It is a good thing because it helps give back to the community and at the same time this program is giving us good exposure. It’s a team effort, and I like the camaraderie it creates,

What are you drinking now?

I just got back from Lake Tahoe where I was drinking a lot of Pinot Noirs and Zinfandels. I like all kinds of Italian varietals too.

What is something you want people to know about you?

We are adding new wines just about every year. We like to try small lots of wine that are unusual and do it in collaboration with other vineyards. I love making new varietals for our customers and wine club members. I go to Italy to discover new techniques and bring them back.  A few years ago I learned how to make Amarone. I hope to bottle it before Christmas this year.