If you’ve ever thought Los Angeles wasn’t wine country, think again. Tucked into the industrial heart of Lincoln Heights, just minutes from Downtown LA, San Antonio Winery stands as both a living landmark and a beloved local wine destination.
Established in 1917, it’s the oldest producing winery in Los Angeles and the last remaining one from the city’s once-thriving wine era. Step through its doors and you’ll find more than just award-winning wines. You’ll find a story of family, survival, tradition, and warm hospitality that’s been over 100 years in the making.
Whether you’re a history buff, wine lover, foodie, or just curious about California’s hidden wine roots, here’s everything you need to know before you visit San Antonio Winery.
A Quick History of San Antonio Winery
Founded by Santo Cambianica, an Italian immigrant from Lombardy, San Antonio Winery began as a small operation serving the city’s growing Italian-American community. But just three years later, Prohibition hit, threatening to shutter the entire industry.
San Antonio survived by making sacramental wine for the Catholic Church, one of the few legal exemptions allowed under the Volstead Act. That decision not only kept the business alive but solidified its reputation and relationships across LA’s religious and immigrant communities.
Today, the winery is still owned and operated by the Riboli family, descendants of Santo Cambianica. Four generations later, it remains a rare example of continuous family stewardship in California winemaking.
Visiting the Winery: What to Expect
Location:
737 Lamar Street, Los Angeles, CA 90031
Just north of Downtown LA in Lincoln Heights — with free parking on site.
Wine Tastings
Tasting Room Hours:
Open Daily: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are available for groups.
You can taste a wide variety of wines here from estate wines from Paso Robles and Napa Valley to San Antonio’s signature Stella Rosa collection (yes, that Stella Rosa). Whether you lean toward dry reds or sparkling sweet wines, the knowledgeable staff will guide you through a tasting tailored to your preferences.
Tasting Options Include:
- Classic flight (choose from a rotating list)
- Stella Rosa flight
- Riboli Family Estates flight
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the award-winning reds from their Paso Robles estate, especially the San Simeon and Maddalena lines.
Maddalena Restaurant and 1917 Wine Bar and Bistro
Right inside the winery is Maddalena Restaurant, named after the family matriarch. It features hearty Italian-American cuisine – think house-made pastas, fresh salads with locally grown produce, Italian favorites and local cheeses and charcuterie.
Grab a glass of wine and enjoy a casual lunch at 1917 Wine Bar and Bistro in the same building where wine has been made for over a century.
Hours: Daily for lunch & early dinner (10:30 AM – 5:00 PM)
Bonus: There’s also a grab-and-go deli counter with paninis, desserts, and espresso — perfect for a more laid-back visit.
Wine & Gift Shop
After your tasting, swing through the on-site wine store which is a beautifully stocked shop where you can buy everything from single bottles to full gift baskets, many of which are exclusive to the winery.
Also available:
- Wine accessories
- Olive oils
- Chocolates
- Gift sets & seasonal goods
Tours & Private Events
While full production tours are currently limited (check the website for updates), private tastings and event rentals are available and the space is beautiful. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a corporate outing, or planning a wine-paired dinner, the winery offers a one-of-a-kind urban venue with rustic charm.
Event types include:
- Private group tastings
- Birthdays & retirements
- Small weddings & rehearsal dinners
- Business receptions
What Makes San Antonio Winery Special?
- Over 100 years of LA wine history
- Still family owned and operated — 4 generations strong
- Survived Prohibition through making sacramental wine
- Award-winning estate wines from Paso Robles, Napa, and Monterey
- Home of Stella Rosa — one of the most popular wine brands in the U.S.
- Full-service Italian restaurant on site
- Open year-round, right in the heart of LA
“We’re proud to still be here, pouring wine where it all started — in Los Angeles.” — Riboli Family
Best Times to Visit
San Antonio Winery is a year-round destination, but some seasonal events and releases are worth keeping an eye on:
Fall: New wine releases, perfect weather, and cozy vibes in the tasting room
Winter holidays: Holiday baskets, special tasting flights, and gift-ready wine bundles
Spring/summer: Outdoor seating, cool wine cocktails, and lighter seasonal food menus
Before You Go…
- Make a reservation if you’re visiting with a group
- Bring your ID (21+ to taste)
- Come hungry — the food is worth it
- Ask staff about the winery’s original oak barrels still on display
- Tag your visit: #SanAntonioWinery
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking for a relaxing, history-filled day in LA, San Antonio Winery offers a rare glimpse into the city’s agricultural roots and pours some excellent wine while they’re at it.
Looking for a winery experience without driving to Napa or Paso Robles? You’ll find it right here in Lincoln Heights in a building that’s been making wine for over a century.
Cheers to LA’s last original winery and to the family who never stopped believing in it.