Testa Vineyards was established in 1912 by my Great Grandparents, Gaetano and Maria Testa. Gaetano left his homeland of Gallarate, Italy to come to America following his dream to own his own land and vineyard. After working in San Francisco a few years, he then traveled north by train. At the first sight of Calpella it reminded him of his homeland, full of beautiful hillsides and lush trees, he knew this was the land to buy. He then sent for his wife Maria and my Grandfather Victor Testa. The whole family worked side by side to clear the land using Belgian horses and dynamite sticks. They planted their first vines and the story began!

The varietals planted on the Testa Ranch are Carignane, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Barbera, Grenache and Charbono. Also just to the north is our Gusto Vineyards – Hillside Cabernet Sauvignon. We are able to make the best “Black” wine using our own fruit. We take great pride in the way we farm our land and vines. It shows in the fruit we harvest.

Our ranch is full of memories and stories of all the hard work and challenges that our family has faced throughout the years… but mostly of the good times spent together, making great wine and life-long friends!

Picture above: My Nonnie Mary Deghi Testa, Papa Victor Testa holding my Dad James Testa, Nona Maria Zochi Testa, Aunt Rose Marie Testa Indelicatto, Uncle Charlie Testa