Galleano Winery
by
Kathy Sullivan
Summary: Galleano Winery is a National Landmark located in the Cucamonga Valley of California. The Galleano family farms 400 acres of grapes. The enthusiasm of the third and fourth generations at the winery is apparent. Enjoy learning about its place in history and tasting wines.
Galleano Winery is located in Mira Loma, California not far from Ontario’s International Airport. It is a State of California Point of Historic Interest and on the National Register of Historic Places. According to the Historic Assessment provided by the historic Galleano Winery, “The Galleano Winery is the oldest continuously operated family-owned winery in the Valley.” Four generations of the Galleano family have been born on the property. Domenico Galleano came to the United States with his wife and brothers in 1913. He purchased the 160-acre property in 1927. With the ending of Prohibition in 1933, the Galleano Winery was bonded and opened in 1933. Eventually the winery passed on to Domenico’s son, Bernard nicknamed Nino. In 1983 the winery operation was passed to Donald Galleano, Domenico’s grandson and his wife, Charlene. Now Domenico’s great grandson, Domenic, is also working at the winery with Donald.
The emphasis at Galleano Winery is on history, family and wine. Charlene Galleano is justifiably proud of the historic Galleano Winery and happy to share her knowledge of the history, vineyards and wines.
Vineyards
The soil in the vineyards is sandy and loose. The vineyards were planted in the 1930’s to the 1950’s. They have acres of Old Vine Zinfandel grapevines. Currently the Galleano owners farm over 400 acres in the Cucamongo Valley. The summer temperatures in the area can reach 110 degrees. On occasion it can stay at 110 degrees for several days. The head pruned vines are organically and dry farmed. During harvest the winery averages between three and five tons of grapes per acre.
Winery
The winery produces 10,000 cases of wine and in addition sells bulk wine. The winery tour is fascinating. For instance be sure to note the cement underground tanks that can hold 7,070 gallons of fermenting wine. A retired cement tank above ground is used for private events. Aged winery equipment no longer in use can be observed outside of the winery buildings.
Galleano Winery has a large number of old redwood tanks. On a tour, notice the seals of the tank. Beeswax is used to seal the door tight. These tanks are used for red wine, Sherry and Port.
Visitors are encouraged to come to the winery. This multi generational family produces quality wines that are affordable. The Galleano family has 83 years of wine and vineyards experience.
Wines
Zinfandel is Galleano’s bestseller. Zinfandel Pioneers Legendary 2008 was dark red. The aroma had floral notes especially rose. The taste offered cherry and earthy nuances. There were mild tannins on the finish. Zinfandel Dos Rancheros Zinfandel 2008 was produced from Old Vine Zinfandel. The wine was fruity with bold tannins. Claret was a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Merlot. This dark red wine had an aroma of black fruit. The taste had notes of blackberries and black cherries. The finish was fruity with intermediate tannins. Zinfandel, used as the house wine, is an everyday drinking wine. The wine had red fruit notes and mild tannins.
Cucamonga Peak was a blend. The aroma was light but the taste was fruity with oak notes. The finish was dry and lingered. Zinfandel Port 2000 was red with sienna hues. The aroma was of cooked jam and raisins. The taste was smooth with jam flavors of dark fruit. The finish was fruity. Angelica was a sienna color. This wine was produced with the Mission grape. The wine was sweet with a velvety mouthfeel. There were layers of fruit with a touch of nuts. Sherry Crème Cask III with 18 percent alcohol was very smooth. Raspberry was a brut sparkling wine. The wine had a raspberry flavor taste.
When planning a visit to the Galleano Winery, plan to include a tour of the winery. The tour will provide details of the fascinating history of the winery and the Cucamonga Valley wine history. A picnic area is available onsite with an adjacent area of small animals. Rambunctious guinea pigs were the main attraction. Groups should call to ask about availability.
Galleano Winery
4231 Wineville Avenue
Mira Loma, California 91752-1412
GPS: N34º 00.653’ W117º 32.520’
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