Meet the Winemaker: Alpenglow Winery

The Par Lounge welcomed residents and guests for a memorable evening at the Meet the Winemaker event on May 27, from 5 to 8 p.m. The gathering brought together wine enthusiasts, neighbors, and friends for an enjoyable night of wine tasting, conversation, and community connection.



Guests had the opportunity to meet the featured winemakers, Chris and Marie Lakey, owners of Alpenglow Winery. Guests were able to learn about the art and passion behind the wines and explore the unique flavors and stories that made each selection special. Throughout the evening, attendees enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere filled with great company, delicious wines, and engaging discussions about the winemaking process.

Travis Billy Ross was the entertainment of the night, playing his guitar and singing at the Par Lounge as guests tasted wine and ate dinner.

Chris and Marie Lakey have built more than a boutique winery; they have created a passion project rooted in community, agriculture, and a shared love of food and wine. They moved to their seven-acre property in December 2018, after discovering the remarkable wines being produced throughout San Diego County. Although they missed that year’s harvest, the couple produced their first vintage in 2019, marking the beginning of their winemaking journey together.

“We’ve always shared a love of food and wine,” the couple explained. Chris, who grew up around French wines in New Orleans, expanded his palate while purchasing wines for his restaurants. Later, while living in Encinitas, the pair became increasingly inspired by the growing reputation of local wines produced in San Diego County.

Their introduction to winemaking began with research, mentorship from neighboring vintners, and determination. They started with the well-known Lum Eisenman winemaking book and guidance from experienced local winemakers. After completing two vintages, Chris enrolled in and completed the UC Davis winemaking program. Today, Chris manages the vineyard while both he and Marie share responsibilities in the winery, combining Chris’s refined palate with Marie’s technical expertise.

The Alpenglow property includes just over two planted acres, though the winery also sources fruit from respected growers throughout the Ramona Valley, while rehabilitating older vineyard blocks on their estate. Existing estate varietals include Tempranillo, Merlot, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Albariño. In recent years, the Lakeys have expanded toward Rhône-style varietals that thrive in Ramona’s warm, arid climate; adding Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault. They have even experimented with Pinot Noir, taking advantage of their western Ramona location approximately 25 miles from the Pacific Ocean.

Guests had the opportunity to sample several featured wines, including Estate Albariño, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the Kohill Vineyard.

The Lakeys also enjoy helping guests discover food pairings that complement each wine. Their Estate Albariño pairs beautifully with seafood pasta, artichoke pea risotto, grilled chicken, and spicy dishes. The Merlot complements pork tenderloin, mushroom ravioli, and soft cheeses, while the Syrah shines alongside Bolognese, veal dishes, and rustic French-style stews. Cabernet Sauvignon pairs naturally with steak, hearty ragùs, and aged cheeses.

The Par Lounge dinner specials included Chicken Stroganoff with cream mushroom sauce, chicken thighs, egg noodles, and green onion. There was also Kale Pesto with angel hair pasta, kale pepita pesto, roasted red bell pepper, confit tomato, and parmesan that paired well with the wine selection. The Par Lounge also offered its regular menu to guests as well.

For Chris and Marie, events like Meet the Winemaker represent something larger than simply pouring wine. “It’s about raising awareness of this remarkable grape-growing region nestled among San Diego’s diverse microclimates,” they shared. “And highlighting its vital role in supporting local agriculture.”

As the Ramona Valley wine region continues to gain recognition, wineries like Alpenglow are helping shape its future one vintage, one conversation, and one glass at a time.

The event was a wonderful celebration of community and craftsmanship, creating an experience that guests will remember long after the final toast. San Diego Country Estates extends sincere thanks to everyone who attended and helped make the evening such a success.

For more information about Alpenglow Winery, visit Alpenglow Winery or contact vino@alpenglowwinery.com.