Salerno Winery: Wine, statues and song

Salerno Winery, a newly expanded cultural destination in Ramona Valley, offers guests an eclectic experience of award-winning wines, an extensive collection of world-class art and classical opera.

Family owned by Herman Salerno, a former opera singer from Italy, and his wife Rose, the vineyard has undergone renovations as part of a new partnership with Jaime Chaljon – a successful businessman from Mexico, who expands on the vineyard’s art with his own collection of sculptures from more than 20 world-renowned artists.

In addition to remodeling the tasting and dining area, streams and waterfalls – visitors can stroll along floral pathways through Chaljon’s collection of sculptures, while enjoying wine and lilting operatic presentations as they view more than 30 works from more than 20 artists. Among his collection, assembled over 25 years, are the largest grouping of pieces from Jorge and Javier Marín – renowned Mexican brothers and sculptures. A life-size chess board by Mexican artist Fernando Pereznieto is featured, as well as sculptures from Tang Da Wu, Julián Bravo, Pedro Cervantes and many more.

In 1998, the Salernos brought their 23 years of making wine to the Ramona Valley, with a dream to establish a world-class winery. By 2005, using traditional Italian methods, the Salernos earned an International Medal for their first wines. Today, the Salernos are credited with being among the top boutique wineries – in California, if not the world. They have earned more than 65 local, national and international awards; they annually sell out all their offerings; and, Salerno Winery has helped Ramona become a “must-see” California destination for wine lovers.

The vineyard’s signature wine is the Elegante, a double gold-medal and sweepstakes winner. Seasonally, the harvest yields Lagrein – “silk in a glass” – and Muscat Canelli, the favorite dessert wine.

Prior to establishing the winery, Herman Salerno, as a proclaimed opera singer, graced stages in Philadelphia, Los Angeles and New York. He later owned Verdi, an Italian restaurant in San Diego where he often entertained his guests with a group of fellow singers.

As the partnership between the Salernos and Chaljon continues to thrive, additional renovations are planned to further enhance the winery. For more information, visit www.salernowinery.com.