Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country Remembers Pioneer Audrey Cilurzo

Audrey Cilurzo celebrating Temecula Valley Wine Country's 50th anniversary in 2018

TEMECULA, Calif., July 21, 2023 (VSNewsNetwork.com) - The Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association (TVWA) has announced the passing of wine industry pioneer, Audrey Cilurzo, who left an indelible mark on Southern California's viticulture. Audrey, who passed away on July 15, 2023, just short of her 94th birthday, was known for her instrumental contributions to the region's winemaking scene.

"Audrey Cilurzo is synonymous with Temecula Valley Wine Country," said TVWA executive director Krista Chaich. "Our entire community will strive to uphold her vision of a lively, inclusive, and hospitable wine destination." Cilurzo, along with her late husband Vincent, an Emmy-Award-winning Hollywood lighting director turned vintner, established the region's first commercial vineyard in 1968. Their pioneering venture into viticulture included planting Petite Sirah and Chenin Blanc vines, taking classes at UC Davis, and learning from agricultural consultant Dick Break. In 1978, the couple launched Cilurzo Winery, now Bella Vista Winery, setting the stage for Temecula Valley's future success.

The spirit of collaboration was paramount to Audrey, and she supported the development and triumphs of other local wineries, providing mentorship and encouragement to those who sought their wine country aspirations. Audrey's hospitable nature shaped the region's personality as an amenities-rich wine destination, offering home-cooked meals to visiting balloonists. Phil Baily of Baily Winery and president of the TVWA board of directors noted, "The coffee pot was always on in the Cilurzo house... She will always be remembered fondly." For more on Audrey Cilurzo's life and legacy, visit www.temeculawines.org.

Source: Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association via Newswire