The Franscioni family has handled the Salinas Valley soil for the past three generations. In the early 1890s, Silvio Franscioni Sr. settled a ranch outside of Gonzales with his beloved wife Maria and their children. What began as a dairy operation developed into a row crop farm. The owner of Puma Road winery Ray Franscioni, Silvio’s grandson, kept the farming tradition vibrant and alive. His dreams for business reached far past dairy cows and growing lettuce. While growing 6,000 acres of row crops, he began to delve into growing grapes. For over the past 20 years, Franscioni has been a prominent grape grower in the Monterey County region. His operation has advanced into growing 2,000 acres of vines while simultaneously continuing the family row crop business. About half of the grape yield is grown in the Santa Lucia Highlands. The other portion grows in the Paicines AVA. After the Franscioni’s became grape growers, they decided to craft wine themselves. The family produced their first bottle of wine in 2003 under the label of RF Wines. Years later, Puma Road Winery produces 4,500 cases per year. They proudly continue to grow 15 varietals. The winery is a thriving, local-based establishment that strongly reflects the Santa Lucia Highlands as well as the Paicines AVA. The earthy flavors and rich minerality of the soil creates the unique products one can only experience at Puma Road down the River Road Wine Trail. Come visit our tasting room in the Santa Lucia Highlands! It is located on the original homestead the Franscioni family settled so many years ago. Experience the hospitality and local knowledge we pride ourselves on.

Our Wines

Monterey

Monterey County is one of the most exquisite wine regions in the nation. Golden, rolling hills meet the world renowned coastline of Monterey Bay. Hundred year old oak trees are scattered throughout meadows and ranches. Mornings are welcomed with light ocean breezes and nights begin after breath taking sun sets. But not only is the Monterey County terrain enough to make any person awestruck, it is also blessed with extremely fertile soil. The area has ideal conditions for growing grapes. The soil, what local farmers call “black gold”, hold abundant nutrients and water to support large varieties of crops, fruits, and vines. As a result, Monterey County has developed into an area with abundant wineries. It is classified as Region I and II climates. These climates and soil conditions merge to support arguably one of the most prestigious grape growing areas in the nation. Region I micro-climate is perfect for Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. They obtain maximum sunlight, allowing the grapes to grow to their upmost potential. Region II micro-climate is found in the southern sections of Monterey County. Since the terrain has numerous canyons, winds stream through the area, cooling the vines and obtaining a moderate temperature. Region II areas do not experience extreme heat waves. As a result, the grapes are able to slowly develop and ripen. Gewürztraminer and Riesling grow particularly well in these conditions. One of the greatest characteristics about Monterey County is its location. Being located in the middle of the state, the area is less than 100 miles south of San Francisco, 30 miles away from Santa Cruz, and 60 miles north of San Luis Obispo. It is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Not only does Monterey County offer exclusive wines, but it’s also home to gorgeous beaches, pristine golf courses and incredible scenery.

Features:

• FREE Tastings