The Bacigalupi & Gaddini Family

The Gaddini family’s history began in 1879 when John Gaddini and Elizabeth Passalacqua married and had three children. In 1883, they acquired a ranch near Healdsburg, where they operated a winery, vineyards, and farm. In 1909, they built Laurel Springs Winery, which still stands today. Their daughter Olive Gaddini married Albert Bacigalupi, connecting the families in Sonoma County’s rich history. Their son Charles and his wife Helen purchased 121 acres on Westside Road in 1956 and planted some of the first Pinot Noir in the Russian River Valley. Bacigalupi fruit gained international recognition when a 1973 Chardonnay made with their grapes won the 1976 Paris Tasting, elevating American wine on the global stage. Today, the family farms 150 acres of premium grapes and raises beef cattle, with four generations involved in the business. They supply grapes to 25 wineries and produce a limited amount of estate wines. Helen’s son, John Bacigalupi, and his wife Pam now manage the winery and vineyard with their twin daughters, Nicole and Katey. A fourth generation, through Nicole’s and Katey’s children, ensures the family’s legacy continues.