Viaggio The Journey Has Begun
BY IVAN MOORE
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Viaggio began its life as a private residence on the banks of the Mokelumne River in Acampo farm country, but its new owners have spent the better part of the last two years rebuilding and expanding on the natural beauty of the grounds, preparing to present it to the public as a premier location for fine dining, wine events, private parties, and weddings.
Boasting 23 acres of walnut orchards, gardens, vineyards, and an array of indoor and outdoor venues, everything about Viaggio – the secluded country setting, the structures’ rustic Tuscan décor, the stately facade of the main residence – evokes the magnificence of an Old World estate, combined with pastoral elegance and the added convenience of its proximity to home.
Viaggio’s winery isn’t operational yet – Lodi’s Oak Ridge Winery produces wine under the Viaggio label – but wine production is among its plans for the near future.
Construction is slated to be completed in June, when Viaggio’s winery and banquet room will open for regular hours, and executive chef Chris Isert – formerly of Brookside Country Club – will unveil a menu of seasonal, Mediterranean-style dishes, prepared with his signature flair for Southwestern cuisine and a selection of fresh ingredients grown on the grounds and at surrounding farms.
“This is an amazing opportunity for me,” says Isert. “To be told, as a chef, that you have virtually everything you need, want and desire. It’s like being a European style chef – using local, seasonal ingredients.”
Isert says he’s been forming relationships with local wineries and produce growers, so the menu will change with the seasons, and emphasize the region’s products. He added that he and his staff will customize menus for weddings and private parties to their clients’ wishes.
Likewise, Viaggio’s event director Theresa Hart has partnered with local vendors to offer her clients complete wedding or party arrangements all in one place, from floral arrangements to dinnerware, and even a lavishly appointed on-site bridal suite, where newlyweds can spend their first wedding night at Viaggio.
Viaggio also boasts an assortment of settings, from the grassy expanse of the river lawn, the shady embrace of the orchard, or the regal stonework and fountains of the brick-and-tile walk, all creating an impressive selection of scenic backdrops.
For more information about Viaggio call 209-368-1378or visit www.viaggiowinery.com
Boasting 23 acres of walnut orchards, gardens, vineyards, and an array of indoor and outdoor venues, everything about Viaggio – the secluded country setting, the structures’ rustic Tuscan décor, the stately facade of the main residence – evokes the magnificence of an Old World estate, combined with pastoral elegance and the added convenience of its proximity to home.
Viaggio’s winery isn’t operational yet – Lodi’s Oak Ridge Winery produces wine under the Viaggio label – but wine production is among its plans for the near future.
Construction is slated to be completed in June, when Viaggio’s winery and banquet room will open for regular hours, and executive chef Chris Isert – formerly of Brookside Country Club – will unveil a menu of seasonal, Mediterranean-style dishes, prepared with his signature flair for Southwestern cuisine and a selection of fresh ingredients grown on the grounds and at surrounding farms.
“This is an amazing opportunity for me,” says Isert. “To be told, as a chef, that you have virtually everything you need, want and desire. It’s like being a European style chef – using local, seasonal ingredients.”
Isert says he’s been forming relationships with local wineries and produce growers, so the menu will change with the seasons, and emphasize the region’s products. He added that he and his staff will customize menus for weddings and private parties to their clients’ wishes.
Likewise, Viaggio’s event director Theresa Hart has partnered with local vendors to offer her clients complete wedding or party arrangements all in one place, from floral arrangements to dinnerware, and even a lavishly appointed on-site bridal suite, where newlyweds can spend their first wedding night at Viaggio.
Viaggio also boasts an assortment of settings, from the grassy expanse of the river lawn, the shady embrace of the orchard, or the regal stonework and fountains of the brick-and-tile walk, all creating an impressive selection of scenic backdrops.
For more information about Viaggio call 209-368-1378or visit www.viaggiowinery.com