As one of Northern California’s wine pioneers, the Guglielmo family has been producing wines in the Santa Clara Valley since 1925, continuing a winemaking craft passed down for generations in Italy.

Born in 1883 near Asti in Italy’s Piedmonte region, family patriarch Emilio Guglielmo (Gool-yell-mo) left his homeland and came to America, purchasing property in the Santa Clara Valley. Today, third-generation brothers George, Gene and Gary keep the family tradition alive by producing nearly 40,000 cases annually under three different labels: Guglielmo Private Reserve for most of their estate wines, Villa Emile varietal wines, and a super-value line bottled as Emile's.

They grow Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Merlot, Carignane and Grignolino, purchasing additional grapes for their 28 wine offerings, which include the full range of California varietals, Champagnes, Ports and a Marsala. Some of their wines are available only at the winery due to the small case production. They also produce some wonderful raspberry and olallieberry wines.

When the winery first began operation, the Santa Clara Valley was a wide open agricultural area, growing a range of crops in its fertile soils. The extensive winery buildings and vineyards of Guglielmo are surrounded by the expanding city and offer a welcome retreat from the hectic pace of urban life.

The ivy-covered walls, lovely patios and fountains offer an inviting place to step back into a little history. Along the wide walkway and throughout the complex of winery buildings are pieces of old processing equipment, with placards describing their past. The old family farmhouse sits center stage between the production facility and the tasting room and gift shop. Off to the side is the entry into the Villa Emile Event Center, a wonderful outdoor picnic area with courtyards, an extensive lawn area, dance floor, stage and vine-covered wine bar.

The tasting room is a warm cozy space packed with wine-related gift items, gourmet foods, pastas, glassware, and even chocolate. In the back is a very large additional gift area where seasonal items, gift baskets, and holiday items can be found. VIP tasting and tours can be arranged by appointment.