Alamitos Vineyards stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of winemaking that began with John Enos Vargas, a pioneering vintner who emigrated from the Azores Islands to California in the early 20th century. Settling in the Tri-Valley area, he crafted wines that were a reflection of his Azorean heritage and his new American dream. Today, his grandson, Shaun Coleman, together with partner Chris Maune, has continued this family tradition at Alamitos Vineyards, located just a stone’s throw from where Vargas once made wine. Embracing both the heritage and the innovative spirit of their forebear, Coleman and Maune have cultivated vineyards that produce wines including Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, and the unique Portuguese Touriga Nacional grape, among others. These wines are not just beverages; they are a bridge connecting the past’s pioneering efforts with today’s quest for community and belonging in the rolling hills of San Jose.
Alamitos Vineyards isn’t just about the grapes or the land; it’s profoundly about the people behind the wine. Shaun Coleman, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur with a penchant for innovation and a deep respect for his familial roots, along with Chris Maune, have infused their passions and pioneering spirit into every bottle. Meanwhile, George Troquato, a third-generation vintner with an impressive resume that stretches across California’s wine country, brings a philosophy of minimal intervention and sustainability from soil to cellar. With a background that includes crafting the first vintages of Testarossa wines and leading the winemaking team at Cinnabar Winery, Troquato’s experience and ethos resonate deeply within the vineyard’s practice, ensuring that every glass of Alamitos wine reflects the care, history, and innovation imbued by its makers.
At the heart of Alamitos Vineyards is a dedication to creating an experience that transcends the act of tasting wine. Visitors to the estate are invited into a world where history, community, and innovation converge, offering a unique glimpse into the San Jose countryside’s beauty and the rich tapestry of stories that have shaped it. This commitment to excellence and community is evident in every bottle crafted at the vineyard, making Alamitos a distinguished beacon of winemaking in California.
The paths of Shaun Coleman and Chris Maune are marked by an unparalleled drive towards crafting not just wine, but legacy. With careers spanning technology, aerospace, and racing, the pivot to winemaking might seem surprising to some. However, for those who know them, it’s a clear reflection of their passion for innovation, quality, and honoring one’s roots. This dynamic duo has taken on the challenge of winemaking with the same fervor they’ve applied to their previous endeavors, blending the art of viticulture with the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Silicon Valley. Their journey from tech moguls to vineyard proprietors is a compelling story of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of crafting something truly extraordinary.
Completing the powerhouse trio at Alamitos Vineyards is George Troquato, whose remarkable winemaking credentials and philosophy enrich the vineyard’s offerings. With a deep understanding that exceptional wines are born from a harmonious relationship between the land and the vine, Troquato’s approach embodies a commitment to sustainability and minimal intervention. His hands-on experience in California’s and France’s esteemed vineyards has endowed him with a nuanced perspective on winemaking, ensuring that Alamitos wines are not only a product of their environment but also stewards of the land. Together, these three individuals form a formidable team, propelling Alamitos Vineyards into the future while firmly rooted in the traditions and legacy of the past.
