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A Sparkling Success Story at Thornton Winery

by Tom Plant

John Thornton has been at the helm of Thornton Winery for more than two decades now. His journey has been a fascinating one. He and his wife, Sally, owned six companies in the 1980’s and they traveled extensively, eating in “better” restaurants and drinking local wine. “We thought we knew something about food and wine. Wrong! All we knew was who to pay,” said Thornton.

When John and Martha Culbertson asked if the Thornton’s might be interested in investing in their winery business, the Thorntons first said no. After taking a second look at projected earnings, cash flow and expected return on investment, they decided to take the plunge. Shortly after the winery’s 1987 opening, it became apparent the projections were way off. The Thornton’s wound up buying out the Culbertsons and starting over.

It took longer and cost more than he imagined, but with son Steve by his side and a quality team led by Champagne Jazz/Club Manager, Tonya Wake, they “moved mountains.” There were six other wineries in Temecula at the time and not many visitors. They thought people might enjoy wine while listening to music and the Champagne Jazz Concert Series. Their 26th annual music season has just concluded. What began with two to three piece bands has grown to feature internationally renowned artists drawing a packed house to every show. In the early days most of the clientele came from San Diego. Today people are coming from as far away as Northern California and Arizona.

At the heart of every winery is wine, and today world-class winemaker, David Vergari, oversees wine production. When the doors first opened, Thornton offered only sparkling wine, but it became apparent the demand was very seasonal so they began offering still wines as well. Thornton still produces sparkling wine made in the traditional Methode Champenoise process. Vergari also makes a wide range of whites and reds including Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.

Jeff Massey is the Executive Chef at Café Champagne. Not many chefs have twenty years as a Marine gunnery sergeant on their resume, but the Thornton’s say it’s a big part of why the kitchen runs as smoothly as it does. He has a chef’s creativity, but also the ability to lead his staff. The restaurant has gone through several transitions. Originally conceived as a deli, it opened as a “high end” restaurant and has become through the years a casual, “nice dining” establishment.

Both John and Steve are committed to consistency at the winery and to giving people what they want. “We are out to produce the highest quality possible in all of our products and services,” says John. He again gives credit to the team they have assembled: Tonya, Jeff and David specifically. “We try to work with people who love what they’re doing, who are absolutely committed to making it work and are very proud of the work they do,” he added. They note that most of the team has been in place for at least five years and many of them more than ten. Thornton Winery is open 365 days a year at 32575 Rancho California Road in Temecula.

Tom Plant launched WINEormous in 2009. A member of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, he also conducts Temecula Valley winery tours for a maximum of seven passengers. You can call him at (951) 907-9701 or email him at tom@wineormous.com.

Written by Tom Plant

Why not experience Temecula Wine Country with a guide who knows the area perhaps as well or better than anyone else. You can reach Tom Plant at (951) 907-9701 or via email at tom@wineormous.com.

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