San Antonio Winery: A Taste of History in Los Angeles

San Antonio Winery, a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, has been crafting wines since 1917. Founded by Santo Cambianica, an Italian immigrant from Lombardy, the winery is dedicated to his patron saint, Saint Anthony. It stands as a testament to the city's winemaking past, a tradition that began with the Franciscan Fathers and early commercial vineyards in the 1800s. During Prohibition, San Antonio Winery distinguished itself by producing sacramental wines for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, allowing it to prosper while many other wineries closed. This connection to the Church, rooted in Cambianica's devout faith and charitable acts, proved vital to the winery's survival and growth. Today, the winery is run by the Riboli family, with multiple generations involved in the business. They source grapes from their vineyards in Monterey County, Napa Valley, and Paso Robles, as well as from other Californian growers. Visitors can explore the winery's history through tours, sample a variety of wines in the tasting room, and enjoy traditional Italian cuisine at Maddalena Restaurant. The 1917 Wine Bar & Bistro offers an outdoor setting to enjoy wine, cocktails, and beer. San Antonio Winery offers a multifaceted experience, blending wine, food, and history in the heart of Los Angeles.