Robert Renzoni Vineyards continues the tradition begun by their ancestors. That of creating the finest of wines for your enjoyment.

The Fords are renowned for their passion for family, friends, travel, and, of course, wine. John and his wife, Kimiko, have journeyed extensively throughout California, often favoring cozy bed-and-breakfast inns as they explore the local wine scene. With a degree in geology, John’s fascination with science and soil laid the groundwork for his deep interest in the history and technology of winemaking. As their appreciation for wine blossomed, John and Kimiko shared their enthusiasm with family and friends, who became regular companions on wine excursions to Northern and Central California.

By the early 1980s, John and Kimiko began dreaming of creating their own estate winery destination, complete with an elegant Tuscan-style bed-and-breakfast inn. This vision soon attracted the involvement of John’s brothers, Steve and Lance, who also embraced the dream. Captivated by the stunning landscapes of the Central Coast, the brothers were drawn to the rapidly growing wine region.

In 1999, the Ford brothers took a significant step by purchasing a 24-acre parcel of land in Templeton, California, which would become Moss Lane Estates and John Alan Winery. This picturesque property now features an 11-acre vineyard and a beautiful cut flower garden, providing a serene setting for wine lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich viticultural heritage of the area.

For those exploring California’s wineries, John Alan Winery offers a unique experience that reflects the Fords’ love of wine, family, and the enchanting landscapes of the Central Coast.

An artisan, family owned winery showcasing the fabulous fruit and friendly spirit of Dry Creek Valley. Located near the charming village of Healdsburg. Pulled in on a whim while visiting wine country for the day. Not only was it a beautiful winery/vineyard, but we practically had the place to ourselves. Patrick was very friendly and knowledgable about all the wines.

Inspired by Sylvia and William “Bill” Lytton, Avensole Winery was born into a family deeply rooted in tradition. The Lyttons had a profound love for music, wine, and family. Over the years, Sylvia and Bill, along with their children Sheldon and Maribeth, often traveled to Sylvia’s hometown of Vienna, Austria, to visit extended family. Austria, with its enchanting vineyards and centuries-old winemaking traditions, captivated them. Vienna, a European hub of music, wine, and food, played a special role in their lives. The fragrant aromas, picturesque landscapes, and time-honored winemaking customs left an indelible mark on the family, influencing their future.

Sylvia and Bill's shared passion for music is what brought them together. Sylvia, a talented pianist, performed throughout Europe in the 1920s and 1930s, often with a partner as part of a duo called "The Melody Twins." Bill, a skilled musician, played both the saxophone and clarinet. During his college years, he formed a band called "The Purple Syncopaters," which performed across the U.S. and Asia. When Sylvia moved to America, she and Bill were introduced, and their mutual love of music created an immediate bond. Their love endured throughout 54 years of marriage and continues through their children and grandchildren.

Inspired by their parents, Sheldon and Maribeth worked diligently to honor Sylvia and Bill’s legacy. Like his father, Sheldon became a lawyer, while Maribeth followed in her mother’s footsteps, becoming an accomplished concert pianist. Despite their careers, the siblings never forgot their family vacations and sought to capture the essence of their memories spent among Austria's elegant vineyards. In the Temecula Valley of California, they found a landscape and climate that reminded them of Austria, and they chose to establish their winery there, paying homage to their childhood memories.

Sylvia’s favorite wine was Gewurztraminer, a varietal she loved for its fragrant aromas and fruity notes. When Sheldon and Maribeth discovered that Gewurztraminer was already planted in the vineyard destined to become Avensole, they were surprised and saw it as a “sign” that they were “home.” Avensole became a part of the Lytton family heritage.

Today, Avensole Winery stands as a tribute to Sylvia, Bill, and Sheldon, who passed away in 2019. With every bottle produced, the winery honors the Lytton family’s vision. Their wines embody a harmonious blend of tradition, artistry, and the rich heritage of the vines.

Visitors are invited to experience the fruits of the Lytton family’s labor and be transported to a time of elegance, adventure, and the timeless magic of music and wine.