The V. Sattui winery story is historic and inspiring. Vittorio Sattui immigrated to the United States from Genoa, Italy, in 1882 and settled in San Francisco. Just three years later, he established St. Helena Wine Cellars, named after the town from where he sourced his grapes. In 1899 he bought a winery in the San Francisco Mission district and renamed his enterprise V. Sattui Wine Company. Soon after, his sons Romeo and Mario joined him in the business.
V. Sattui Wine Company had enormous success and growth through the early 1900s. But, like so many other wineries in the United States, it closed in 1920 with the passage of prohibition. By the time the 21st amendment was repealed in 1933, Vittorio had retired, and the family wine business appeared over.
Photo by Joanna Salazar
Determined to re-establish V. Sattui Winery in Napa, great grandson Dario Sattui returned in 1972 from traveling throughout Europe to the Napa Valley. He immersed himself in winemaking by apprenticing for three years at various wineries. In 1976 Dario reopened the doors to V. Sattui winery, becoming the 46th winery established in the valley after prohibition. It was made possible in part with an investment, part of a Nobel prize purse, from a UCLA professor. To keep marketing costs down, Dario chose to sell wine directly to consumers. To do this, he made V. Sattui an inviting place to visit, building a beautiful stone edifice, lush gardens, and beautiful grounds for picnics and events
This business model continues today at V. Sattui, and their 70-plus award-winning wines are only available at the winery and online. President Tom Davies says, “Our focus is on inclusivity. It is like one big Italian family, where everyone is welcomed and has a great time enjoying wine, food, and friendship.” In addition to tasting wine, visitors can enjoy the artisan marketplace with over 200 cheeses, house-made foods, salumi, bread, and gelato. For those who want a regular shipment of wines from V. Sattui, there are four levels of the wine club to join.
Acknowledging the changing climate and environmental threats, V. Sattui has committed to sustainable farming practices and is working towards all 300 acres becoming 100% certified organic in three years. Invested in being a good community partner, V. Sattui produces a Cabernet Sauvignon blend called Terra Forza, “strong earth.” For every bottle sold, they contribute $1.00 to the Napa Valley Grape Growers to support sustainable viticulture.
The commitment of V. Sattui to the industry’s future is evident in the words of founder Dario Sattui at his recent 80th birthday party, “As a historic family-owned business, caring for the environment, the community, and the next generation is both a privilege and a responsibility.”
To learn more about V. Sattui winery, plan a visit or event, or order wine visit their website www.vsattui.com.
