Gianelli Vineyards Has New Owners
Jamestown, CA — A popular and award winning Tuolumne County winery has new ownership.
Gianelli Vineyards was founded in 2000 by Lorie and Ron Gianelli and has long specialized in Italian varietals.
The 30-acre vineyard and winemaking facility on Algerine Road, with 14 estate varietals, and the Jamestown tasting room at 18158 Main Street, have been sold to Amy Veldstra and Brendt Noon. They are also owners of the nearby historic Rawhide Saloon. Lorie Gianelli will remain active in the winery’s day-to-day operations under the new ownership. Husband Ron was forced to step away from the business a couple of years ago due to health issues.
Veldstra and Noon have been in business together since 2009 and have owned the Rawhide since 2016. They are active members of the Tuolumne County Chamber of Commerce and support local events.
Veldstra and Noon approached Lorie as soon as they learned she was considering selling the business and moving closer to retirement.
Veldstra notes, “We have known of Gianelli wines for years, have always been impressed with the attention they pay to their vineyards, and the quality of the wine they produce. The timing was perfect for all of us and we’re excited to have Lorie continue as an integral part of the Gianelli Winery team.
Lorie says, “The goal at Gianelli Vineyards and tasting room, as it has been since Ron and I launched this grand adventure decades ago, remains-to produce award winning wines that combine both old world tradition and new technologies, draw even more wine lovers to enjoy the amazing varietals we produce and continue to promote the Sierra Foothills as the true wine destination that it is.”
The new owners plan to expand the winery, continue its popular events, and with winemaker Cody LaPertche, will debut new creations, while still embracing the Italian varietals, and working to stay true to the region.
A meet and greet with the new owners is planned for Sunday, July 22, from 1-4pm at the downtown Jamestown tasting room.
