Ampelos Vineyard, a pioneering Sta. Rita Hills property renowned for its early commitment to sustainable, organic and biodynamic viticulture, has been sold by its founding owners to Chiara Shannon and Joseph Brent.
The new couple will bring a passion for regenerative farming practices and a fresh vision, said Peter Work, founder of Ampelos with his wife, Rebecca.
Ampelos Cellars, the winery established by the Works, will continue to operate as a separate business, according to Peter Work.
Established in 1999, Ampelos was the first vineyard in the United States to achieve triple certifications — for organic, biodynamic and sustainable farming — and acclaim for pinot noir and Rhone wines.
“Rebecca and I have been in a very special and lucky situation to be able to create and farm Ampelos Vineyard for the last 25 years,” Peter Work said in a news release published by WineBusiness.com.
“We have over the last few years been looking for the next generation to take over our vineyard and its high farming principles. We are convinced that in Chiara and Joe we have found the perfect people with the experience, vision and dedication that will ensure the continuity of Ampelos Vineyard.”
Shannon, MBA, DipWSET, brings 20 years of wine industry experience and ecological values to the venture. Through her work as a sommelier, wine buyer, consultant and sustainable wine advocate, she is well-equipped for a future with Ampelos.
Brent, her husband and business partner, is the founding partner of California-based law firm Brent & Fiol LLP, where he has built a career as a trial attorney. Together, they are excited to transition into the world of viticulture and bring their combined talents to the management and growth of Ampelos Vineyard.
“Joe and I are thrilled to carry forward the vision that Peter and Rebecca set into motion,” Shannon said. “Ampelos Vineyard is a very special site in Sta. Rita Hills and offers unique opportunities. We will be preserving the name, Ampelos Vineyard, and continue vineyard management under Ruben Solorzano and the great team at Coastal Vineyard Care (Associates).
“That said, we are bursting with ideas for the future. Our first step is to become regenerative organic certified with the goal to be complete by the end of 2025.”
The Works maintain separate ownership of the Ampelos Cellars winery and will continue in wine production and distribution, with new vintages anticipated for release in the coming months.
Strange Family Vineyards Opens Los Olivos Tasting Room
Family-owned Strange Family Vineyards has opened a tasting room in Los Olivos for visitors to sample its estate-grown still and sparkling wines, most of them chardonnay and pinot noir.
Founded in 2012 by husband-and-wife Brian and Shamra Strange, Strange Family Vineyards has remained focused on wines that express the character of the family’s sustainably-farmed estate.
After closing its Malibu tasting room to relocate closer to its vineyards, the family chose Los Olivos for its reputation as a destination for wine enthusiasts.
“We are thrilled to open our doors in Los Olivos and welcome visitors to experience a taste of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA in every sip,” Shamra Strange said.
In addition to a range of chardonnay and pinot noir-based still and sparkling wines, Strange Family Vineyards offers nonalcoholic tasting options, including a flight of botanical elixirs.
On weekends, Strange Family Vineyards will offer a special bubbles tasting for two, served alongside a tin of Regiis Ova caviar, crème fraîche and truffle and rosemary chips. The tasting room also features a selection of carefully curated merchandise, from books and linens to glassware.
The Strange Family Vineyards tasting room is located at 2933 Grand Ave. Its hours are noon to 5:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Reservations are encouraged but not required.
PRWCA Promotes Carol Yeaman-Sanchez to Development Director
The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance has promoted Carol Yeaman-Sanchez from membership manager to development director of the organization.
In her new role, Yeaman-Sanchez will lead efforts to recruit and retain members while expanding PRWCA’s sponsorship and partnership programs.
As development director, she will oversee all aspects of member and partnership relations, working to identify, cultivate and secure new sponsorships that support PRWCA’s mission.
In addition, Yeaman-Sanchez will expand partnerships for the organization’s annual events, including the Paso Wine Fest, scheduled for May 15-18.
She joined PRWCA in an administrative role in 2020, and after a brief hiatus, returned to the organization in June 2022 as membership manager.
“We are thrilled to have Carol step into this expanded role,” said Joel Peterson, executive director of PRWCA. “She has already achieved tremendous success in her current role, building great relationships with our members and helping grow our community. Her commitment to our mission and her talent for fostering strong partnerships will be invaluable as we continue to increase our reach and impact.”
The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance is the official trade and marketing organization that represents wineries, growers and businesses in the Paso Robles American Viticultural Area.