When our kids completed high school and ‘left the nest’ for college, the countryside beckoned, and we moved to Ramona in October, 2019. When we saw a secluded hilltop home in Ramona, compete with a small vineyard it was love at first sight. With the previous owners of the property having moved overseas, our approx. 300 Cabernet Sauvignon vines were in need of some love, and ever since we’ve been working hard to look after and improve the health of these vines, which are around 10 years old. It’s been a steep learning curve, with knowledge gained from grape growing friends, Ramona Valley Vineyard Association (RVVA), taking a vineyard management class, books, SNS, etc., and although challenging, it has been a most enjoyable journey.
Just a little background about myself. I am Japanese, I was born in Japan, but since graduating college, I mainly lived outside of Japan due to my work. My husband is British and we have two grown-up kids. We moved to the US in 2009 due to my husband’s work. We have two dogs; Nocino (rescue Mutt) and Tartufo (Spinone Italiano). Both are doing great as vineyard guard dogs, and have contributed to the name of this magical place which is “Tartino vineyards”. Tartino being a combination of “TARTufo” and “nocINO”.
My current goal is to grow healthy, high quality grapes. Wine making may follow, likely when my husband retires, and I can imagine this peaceful and private place as a hidden spot for people to get together and enjoy the spectacular views over a glass of wine.
Welcome to Tartino Vineyards.
