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San Antonio Winery: A Taste of History in Los Angeles

Experience California's oldest winery in the heart of Los Angeles, where family tradition meets award-winning wines, Italian cuisine, and a vibrant cultural heritage.

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Step into California's oldest winery, a family-run establishment since 1917, nestled in the heart of Los Angeles. San Antonio Winery offers a unique urban wine experience, blending rich history with modern winemaking. Sample award-winning wines from their Napa, Monterey, and Paso Robles vineyards, and indulge in Italian cuisine at the Maddalena Restaurant. Explore the historic grounds, take a winery tour, and discover the legacy of the Riboli family, who have been crafting wines for over a century. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, San Antonio Winery promises an unforgettable journey into the world of fine wines, where passion and dedication are poured into every bottle. It's a perfect destination for a relaxed afternoon, a special celebration, or a cultural exploration of Los Angeles's winemaking heritage.

A brief summary to San Antonio Winery

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience, avoiding the weekend crowds.
  • Check the winery's calendar for special events, such as wine and food pairings or blending workshops.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the winery's history and winemaking process.
  • The Maddalena Restaurant is popular; reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.
  • Take advantage of the free parking, a rare find in downtown Los Angeles.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Union Station, a major transportation hub in Los Angeles, take the Metro A Line (formerly the Gold Line) towards Azusa. Exit at the Lincoln Heights/Cypress Park Station. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk south along N Main Street, then a left onto Lamar Street. The winery will be on your left. A single Metro fare is $1.75, and a TAP card is required (available for purchase at Union Station). Alternatively, several bus lines, including the 45, stop near the winery. Check the LA Metro website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. The LADOT DASH Lincoln Heights/Chinatown bus also serves the area.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Los Angeles, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to San Antonio Winery typically costs between $10-$15, depending on traffic and surge pricing. The journey usually takes around 10-15 minutes. Direct the driver to 737 Lamar Street, Los Angeles, CA 90031. Be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

  • Driving

    If driving, take the 5 Freeway and exit at Main Street. Head south on Main Street, then turn left onto Lamar Street. The winery will be on your left. San Antonio Winery offers free parking in its on-site lot, a valuable perk in Los Angeles. However, parking can fill up quickly during peak hours, especially on weekends. There is also a parking garage located across the street from the winery.

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Discover more about San Antonio Winery

San Antonio Winery, a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, stands as a testament to the city's rich winemaking past and the enduring spirit of the Riboli family. Founded in 1917 by Santo Cambianica, an Italian immigrant from Lombardy, the winery has weathered Prohibition, the Great Depression, and the urban sprawl of Los Angeles to become a beloved landmark and the oldest producing winery in the city. Located in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood, just east of downtown, the winery offers a unique urban oasis, a place where visitors can escape the city's hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the world of wine. The original location on Lamar Street, now surrounded by businesses and homes, is a tangible link to the early days of California winemaking, when Los Angeles was the center of the state's wine industry. Santo Cambianica, a devout Catholic, dedicated his winery to Saint Anthony, hoping for good fortune. During Prohibition, the winery secured a contract with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to produce sacramental wines, a lifeline that allowed it to survive while other wineries closed their doors. This pivotal moment cemented the winery's place in the community and laid the foundation for its future success. In the post-World War II era, Stefano Riboli, Santo's nephew, took the helm and guided the winery through a period of expansion and modernization. Recognizing the superior quality of grapes grown in Northern California, Stefano began sourcing grapes from Monterey County and Napa Valley, establishing relationships with growers that continue to this day. This commitment to quality and innovation has earned San Antonio Winery numerous accolades, including being named "American Winery of the Year" by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Today, the winery is a multi-generational family affair, with members of the Riboli family involved in all aspects of the business. The winery's offerings have expanded to include a diverse portfolio of wines, from classic varietals to innovative blends, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The Stella Rosa line, known for its semi-sweet and sparkling wines, has become a national phenomenon, introducing a new generation to the joys of wine. Visitors to San Antonio Winery can embark on a variety of experiences. Guided winery tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the winemaking process, from grape to glass, while knowledgeable staff share the history of the winery and the Riboli family. Wine tastings offer the opportunity to sample a selection of the winery's acclaimed wines, guided by expert staff who can help refine your palate and discover new favorites. For a more immersive experience, consider a steward-led tasting in the Stefano Cellar, where you can sample limited-production wines paired with a charcuterie platter. The Maddalena Restaurant, named after the matriarch of the Riboli family, offers a delightful culinary experience, serving traditional Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The 1917 Wine Bar & Bistro provides a more casual setting, with a menu of wine by the glass or bottle, cocktails, and draft beer. The winery also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including wine and food pairings, blending workshops, and seasonal celebrations. Beyond the wine and food, San Antonio Winery offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Los Angeles. The winery's historic buildings, adorned with vintage photographs and artifacts, tell the story of a family's journey and the evolution of the California wine industry. The gift shop offers a curated selection of wine-related gifts and souvenirs, allowing visitors to take a piece of the winery home with them. San Antonio Winery is more than just a winery; it's a destination that celebrates family, tradition, and the art of winemaking. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family outing, or a cultural exploration, San Antonio Winery offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the world of wine. The winery's commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy. They have invested in energy-efficient winemaking facilities in Paso Robles and have implemented practices to reduce their environmental impact. This dedication to responsible winemaking ensures that future generations can enjoy the fruits of their labor. Visiting during the fall harvest season is a particularly special time, as the winery hosts special events and tastings to celebrate the bounty of the year. However, any time of year is a good time to visit, as the winery offers a welcoming atmosphere and a diverse range of experiences to suit every taste. San Antonio Winery is a true gem in the heart of Los Angeles, a place where history, culture, and the love of wine come together to create an unforgettable experience.

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