Our Story
Inspired by Sylvia and William “Bill” Lytton, Avensole Winery was born into a family deeply rooted in tradition. The Lyttons had a profound love of music, wine and, above all, family. Throughout the years, Sylvia and Bill, along with their children Sheldon and Maribeth, would often return to Sylvia’s home town of Vienna, Austria to visit extended family. Austria, with its enchanting vineyards and centuries-old winemaking traditions captivated Sylvia and Bill. Vienna in particular was, and still is, the European center of music, wine and food. The fragrant aromas, picturesque landscapes and centuries-old winemaking traditions painted a vivid picture that would influence the family for years to come.
Sylvia and Bill’s love for music is what brought them together. Sylvia, a talented pianist, performed throughout Europe in the 1920’s and 30’s often with a partner. Together they became known as, “The Melody Twins”. Bill was an accomplished musician in his own right playing both saxophone and clarinet. During his college years, he formed a band, “The Purple Syncopaters” which performed in both the U.S. and Asia. When Sylvia came to America, they were introduced and formed an immediate bond over their love of music. Their love never wavered throughout their 54-year marriage and now lives on through the generations of their children and grandchildren.
Driven by this love and admiration, Sheldon and Maribeth worked tirelessly to follow in their parent’s footsteps. Sheldon, like Bill, became a lawyer and Maribeth became am accomplished concert pianist. But the siblings never forgot their family vacations and longed to capture the essence of their experience by bringing their memories of summers amongst the elegant vineyards to America. In the Temecula Valley, California they found a remarkably similar geography and climate that they experienced in Austria and decided to pay homage to their childhood memories by establishing their winery here.
Sylvia’s favorite wine was the Gewurztraminer. She developed a deep affinity for its fragrant aromas and fruity overtones. One of the varietals already planted in the vineyard that was to become Avensole, was Gewurztraminer. Both Sheldon and Maribeth were surprised and delighted that Sylvia’s favorite was there. They felt it was a “sign” that they were “home”. Avensole became part of the Lytton heritage.
Fast forward to the current day, Avensole stands as a tribute to both Bill and Sylvia, and to Sheldon who passed away in 2019. With every bottle of wine produced, we honor the Lytton Family’s vision. Our wines embody the harmonious blend of tradition, artistry, and the rich heritage of the vines.
We invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey to savor the fruits of Sheldon, Maribeth and the Lytton Family’s labor and be transported to a time of elegance, adventure, and the ever-present magic of music and wine.
