The Bastoni Family

In March 1905, Pasquale and Luigi Bastoni arrived in Santa Rosa, California, from northern Italy, beginning the family’s legacy in the U.S. They purchased 160 acres of land in northeast Santa Rosa, which was later passed down to Pasquale’s son. The original vineyards, planted with Zinfandel on St. George rootstock, included a field blend of Alicante Bouschet, Petite Sirah, Carignan, and Palomino, but over time dwindled to 13 acres. Three generations later, Martha Bastoni Messana and her husband Russ replanted the vineyards with a focus on Zinfandel and Alicante Bouschet. The family repurchased land over the years, expanding to 37 acres today. Bastoni Vineyards, located in the historic Fountaingrove District, features a 1921 house, a traditional bread oven, and remnants of old farm structures. Certified Fish Friendly Farming since 2002, the vineyard is also known for its holiday tradition: a spectacular light display synchronized to music, enjoyed by the local community each December.