Altamura Winery
Frank Altamura’s lifelong pursuit as a winemaker is fueled by his passion for viticulture. Born and raised in Napa Valley, Frank began working with his cousin, a vineyard manager, right out of high school and knew that this would be his life’s calling. Formal viticulture training began at Sterling Vineyards in 1976 under the tutelage of Ric Forman where he began to explore what winemakers were looking for from the vineyard. This concept was further developed from the winemaker’s perspective at Caymus with friends Chuck Wagner, Randy Dunn and mentor Charlie Wagner.
Frank and Karen Altamura established Altamura Winery in 1985. Many of the early vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon were sourced from a vineyard located on a sprawling 400 acre ranch in historic Wooden Valley that had been settled by members of Karen Altamura’s family in 1855. Frank sensed the long-term potential for this growing region and began extensive site selection research within the Napa Valley to ensure optimal vineyard development on the Ranch. They began their adventure, taming what had once been a cattle ranch by clearing 65 acres and planting to Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese on six different sites. Caves were dug and meticulous construction was begun on the stone winery. Lured by the natural beauty and rural atmosphere, the Altamuras found their home in Wooden Valley.
