San Antonio Winery - Los Angeles California

The San Antonio Winery, located on Lamar Street in Los Angeles, is the last functional winery left in this huge Californian city. The vineyards aren't visible from the windows of the building - the vineyards are long gone, and only the white grapes are shipped to this location for processing. They do have a huge selection of wine, though, both their own and selections from around the world.

One side of the winery houses a gift shop, and an entrance to their cafeteria area. We saw quite a few tour groups coming through while we were there, taking advantage of the interesting wines and the meal. When we got to the tasting bar, Lenny Winans was there to talk with us at length about the wines, the winemaking process, and the vineyards.

The winery puts out many labels, for their different levels of wine. We began with three of their Chardonnays. The Maddalena, from Central Cost grapes, was crisp and citrussy, with a mineral flavor to it. The San Simeon Chardonnay comes from Monterey and is partially barrel aged, giving it an oakier flavor, with pear and some citrus flavor to it. The Aliento del Sol comes from Santa Barbara grapes, and had a fruity flavor - pear, green apple, and a creamy, oaky overtone. This was my friend's favorite.

The Maddalena Cabernet Sauvignon was my favorite, aged in oak, with delicious fruit flavors, blackberry and vanilla. Quite tasty. They also have a Santo Stefano Cab, and a San Simeon Pinot Noir and Merlot.

I had really hoped to try their La Quinta "port", but they sadly were all out. I did get to try their Marsala-style dessert wine, which was pretty tasty. Their full-service store also has quite a few other wines from around the world, including many that aren't seen at most liquor stores. This is definitely an interesting winery to visit if you're in Los Angeles! In addition, if you live in the area, Mr. Winans runs courses in wine at the local college.

San Antonio Winery Webpage

California Winery Reviews