#USA #Los Angeles #Maddalena Riboli #Riboli Family Wines #San Antonio Winery

Honoring the Life and Legacy of Maddalena Riboli

Maddalena Riboli, the matriarch of the renowned Riboli family winery, passed away just days shy of her 102nd birthday, leaving behind a legacy that not only transformed California's wine industry but inspired countless others to pursue their dreams with tenacity and passion. Born Maddalena Satragni on December 7, 1922, in Mombaruzzo, a small village in Italy, she exhibited extraordinary strength and determination from a young age.

Maddalena's family immigrated to America in search of better opportunities, ultimately settling in Southern California's Guasti Winery Village. It was in this vibrant community of Italian immigrants that Maddalena's ambition began to flourish. Academically gifted and athletically inclined, she excelled at Chino High School, where her talents in mathematics and science stood out.

In 1944, while working on her family's ranch, Maddalena met her future husband, Stefano Riboli. Their romance blossomed quickly, leading to a marriage in 1946. With a visionary mindset and a passion for wine, Maddalena opened one of California's first wine tasting rooms, creating a vital link between winemakers and consumers. This bold move paved the way for twelve additional tasting rooms in the 1960s, broadening access to high-quality wines in Southern California.

Her ambitious spirit extended beyond mere business. In 1974, she established the Maddalena Restaurant within the San Antonio Winery, marking it as the first winery restaurant in America. This innovative idea not only provided an excellent culinary experience but showcased her ability to blend food and wine, further enhancing the reputation of her family's winery.

Maddalena was not just a businesswoman; she was a nurturing matriarch who valued family above all else. Her children—Santo, Cathy, and Steve—grew up witnessing her dedication to work and family life. She instilled in them the importance of education, perseverance, and integrity, ensuring that her legacy would continue through generations.

Over the years, Maddalena led the family’s ambitious growth plan, expanding their vineyards to over 2,000 acres across Californian wine regions including Napa Valley, Paso Robles, and Monterey. Her keen sense for real estate and viticulture transformed the family's approach to winemaking, emphasizing sustainability and organic practices.

The spirit of Maddalena Riboli lives on through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who are eager to continue her mission of excellence in the wine industry. Each member of her family embodies the values she held dear, which are deeply rooted in her philosophy: “Work hard, love your family, and always keep moving forward.” This motto not only reflects her personal journey but serves as inspiration for her family and all who knew her.

Throughout her life, she was celebrated not only as a business leader but as a beloved grandmother and great-grandmother. Her extensive family remains heavily involved in the Riboli Family Wines, which she helped to elevate as an industry leader. The family's commitment to innovative winemaking and sustainability reflects the foundation Maddalena laid down during her illustrious career.

In an industry where barriers were often placed before women, Maddalena Riboli boldly stepped beyond societal expectations, becoming a leader, an innovator, and a figurehead for those seeking to create their path. Her contributions to the California wine industry paved the way for future generations, and her story serves as a source of inspiration.

Maddalena’s favorite expression, “Sempre Avanti” (Always Forward), encapsulates her relentless spirit. As we honor her memory, we are reminded of the power of dreams pursued with determination, and the profound impact of family and community in achieving those dreams. The Riboli Family Wines continues to thrive, upholding the principles she championed and the values she instilled. Maddalena Riboli’s legacy will live on, forever etched in the hearts of those she inspired.

About Riboli Family Wines

Riboli Family Wines has been family-owned since 1917 and is celebrated for its award-winning wines. As the winner of Wine Enthusiast's 2018 American Winery of the Year, the Riboli family continues to honor its heritage while pushing the boundaries of winemaking. Today, they proudly offer various estate-based brands and maintain a commitment to sustainable farming, ensuring Maddalena's vision thrives in every bottle produced.