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Visiting Our Vineyards
FEBRUARY 2017
Vitagliano Winery: New Winery Welcomes Guests with Ambiance and Great Wine
By Susan J. Montgomery It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic setting than Vitagliano Vineyards and Winery,
which recently opened its tasting room in the Temecula Valley Wine Country. Just imagine . . . a serene lake with meandering geese and beautiful fountains, the sooth- ing sounds of tumbling waterfalls over rocks, and inviting bonfires that are perfect for cozying up with good friends while sipping a glass of superb wine. Without question, this is one of the most enchanting and romantic settings in the wine country. Located on ten acres of rolling hills, the site has been the home for the past ten
years of Lake Oak Meadows, a picturesque, secluded event venue in the heart of the wine country. Lake Oak Meadows and Vitagliano Winery are owned by the Aglios. When Frank first purchased the property about 24 years ago, it was a horse boarding and training ranch, but eventually they realized what a perfect place it would be for couples wanting a private setting for wine country weddings and for other special gatherings. Fortunately, the Aglios were able to bring their extensive experience in planning weddings to their new venture.
Anthony, Lisa and Frank Aglio
Through word-of-mouth, the popularity of their venue grew and the wedding and event business flourished. It only seemed logical, since Lake Oak Meadows was located in the heart of wine
country, that they would also plant grapes. So about two years after creating their event venue, their wine production venture was also launched and it has grown to produce about 4000 cases annually. Until recently, the winery primarily sold its wine to wedding guests, but plans are in place for expanded production to accommodate its new wine club. It isn’t just the setting that is outstanding at Vitagliano. The wines are also excep-
tional with an emphasis on Super Tuscans. The winemaker, Erick Erno, has been at Vitagliano for the past five years. He brings extensive experience and expertise to the table, resulting in the production of exceptional wines that are earning rave reviews. Their cabernets recently won silver medals in the 2016 Inland Empire Magazine com- petition. Right now Vitagliano is producing eight varietals, including Dolcetto, Cabernet
Sauvignon, Riesling, Primitivo, Cinsault, Merlot and Muscat Canelli. Most grapes are sourced locally from the winery’s own vineyards and from other Temecula area vine- yards. Because of the many eucalyptus trees on the property, Vitagliano’s estate wines have hints of this delectable fragrance and flavor. Wine production, including fermentation and pressing, takes place right on the property and a bottling truck comes in when needed. Owner Frank Aglio says, “We are 100 percent committed to producing high quality
wine here. Our goal is to make the best wine possible and pro- vide an exceptional tasting ex- perience for our guests.”
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