Ted Seghesio Returns to Winemaking: A New Chapter for the Sonoma County Vintner

After Ted Seghesio exited Seghesio Family Vineyards in 2018, he faced an emotional period, uncertain about his future in winemaking. As a fourth-generation winemaker from Sonoma County, he had transformed his family’s winery into a prominent name in Zinfandel production, following a lineage that dates back to 1886 when his great-grandfather first planted Zinfandel in Alexander Valley.

In 2011, the winery was sold unexpectedly to a Napa-based company, Crimson Wine Group, which left Ted feeling unmoored. Despite his reservations, he remained at the company for another seven years before resigning. Following this departure, he and his wife Dana began to consider launching their own label.

In 2021, they unveiled their new venture, Solo Nostro, which translates to "ours alone" in Italian. They aimed to re-enter the wine industry with a small-scale production philosophy that would emphasize quality over quantity. Their venture took shape at Bacchus Landing in Healdsburg, sharing a cooperative tasting room with other local wineries.

Currently, Solo Nostro produces around 400 to 500 cases annually, focusing on their Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, Rockpile Primitivo, and a unique blend of Rhone varietals. The couple hopes to attract a local following while navigating the challenges posed by a recent downturn in the wine market. Ted expressed optimism for the brand’s future and a desire to reconnect with the community that values Sonoma County wines.

The tasting room for Solo Nostro is set to open in June at Bacchus Landing, operating Friday to Sunday and offering appointments on Mondays and Thursdays. For more details, you can visit solonostro.com.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!