Solano County Wine Country

Mario Lanza and Lena Carlevaro Lanza met in Oakland, California in 1934, and married three years later. Their families both came from the small town of Silvano Di Orba, in northern Italy. Mario worked as a partner in the Oakland Scavenger Company, but he was injured in a workplace accident. His doctor recommended that he move from the Bay area to a warmer climate.

Mario had a friend, Salvador Brea, who, with his brother Manuel had founded a small winery in Suisun Valley at the end of prohibition in 1933 – Wooden Valley Winery.

It was the perfect place for Mario. He moved his family to Suisun Valley in 1944, joining the Brea brothers as a partner. He became sole owner in 1955 – with the understanding that the name of the winery would stay the same. On a handshake, Mario agreed to continue the business as Wooden Valley Winery.

This decision has left a significant historical fingerprint; Salvador named the winery after the road it was on – then Wooden Valley Road. The same road is now Suisun Valley Road, but Mario’s promise allows the unique name “Wooden Valley” to continue in Suisun Valley.

 Welcome to BackRoad Vines located in beautiful Suisun Valley, California, bringing back the traditional "old school" art form of wine making. 

 Enjoying life on the BackRoads....
crafting wine from hand picked berries sourced from their complementary terroir ensures our wines premium foundation. Small vessel fermenting paired with stainless and French Oak barrel aging structures and balances our wines. 

Frank and Liz along with their children began their winemaking journey in 2001. With humble beginnings they put their heart and soul into producing a product that they not only love but that others could as well. Their desire stemmed from the many travels and wine experiences they’ve had over the 35 years of their marriage. They have celebrated marriages, births, friends, and club members with the fruits of their winemaking journey.