The Bartolomei Family

In 1895, thirteen-year-old Dominic Giovanetti left Carlazzo, Italy, for California in search of a better life. A skilled stone mason, he helped build Santa Rosa landmarks such as the Railroad Square train station and Hotel La Rose before turning to agriculture. After learning hop farming on the historic Wohler Ranch, he purchased 84 acres in Forestville—now Giovanetti Road—where he planted apples, prunes, and wine grapes, founding Giovanetti Ranch in 1911. His vineyard featured classic Italian field blend varietals like Zinfandel, White Chasselas, Carignan, and Alicante Bouschet. During Prohibition, Dominic distilled spirits, using the proceeds to build the grand Italianate farmhouse that still stands today, now home to his great-granddaughter Catherine Bartolomei. The ranch became a cherished gathering place for family and friends, with Catherine and her brother Joe growing up immersed in its traditions. Their neighbors, the Martinelli family, shared both land and values, helping shape the Russian River Valley’s agricultural heritage. Replanted to Pinot Noir in the 1990s, Giovanetti Ranch continues to honor its Italian roots while reflecting Sonoma County’s cool-climate legacy—a lasting symbol of resilience, hard work, and family devotion.