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Monte Rio Cellars

Monte Rio Cellars is a California wine producer founded by Patrick Cappiello, a respected sommelier, and Pax Mahle, a noted winemaker. The winery focuses on natural winemaking practices with minimal intervention, sourcing grapes from sustainable vineyards primarily in Northern California, including the Lodi region where their Sangiovese 'Fiasco Mag' is produced.

Founded
2018
Specialty
Natural wines with minimal intervention, particularly Sangiovese
Wines
1

Wines by Monte Rio Cellars

M

Monte Rio Cellars Sangiovese 'Fiasco Mag' Lodi

Red

Red

Monte Rio Cellars, founded by sommelier Patrick Cappiello, is part of the new California wine vanguard – producing wines with lower alcohol, minimal intervention, and maximum drinkability. Their Sangiovese 'Fiasco Mag' (the name playfully referencing the traditional straw-covered Chianti bottles) brings an Italian sensibility to Lodi fruit. This isn't trying to be a Chianti knockoff – instead, it's Sangiovese with a California accent, embracing the grape's natural acidity and bright fruit character while allowing Lodi's warm climate to provide just a touch more ripeness and generosity. The winemaking approach is decidedly old-school: native yeast fermentation, neutral oak aging, and minimal sulfur additions. The result is a wine that feels alive in the glass – vibrant, honest, and utterly delicious. It's the kind of red that can be slightly chilled on warmer days and pairs with practically anything you put on the table.