The Sebastiani Family

Sebastiani Winery was founded in 1904 by Samuele Sebastiani, an Italian immigrant and stonemason, who purchased land in Sonoma to produce wine for local communities and San Francisco restaurants. During Prohibition, Sebastiani remained operational, producing sacramental wines, one of the only wineries to do so during this time. Samuele was instrumental in supporting his community, creating jobs and building local infrastructure. After his death in 1944, his son August expanded the winery and introduced new varietals. In 1980, August’s children—Sam, Don, and Mary Ann—took over. The family refocused on quality with Mary Ann helping to lead the company through its transition into one of Sonoma County’s premier quality wine producers. The brand sold in 2001 to Constellation Brands, with Bill Foley eventually purchasing the winery in 2008. The Sebastiani family legacy continues with multiple ventures and four generations of Sebastianis who have helped to shape Sonoma Valley’s wine industry.