Sometimes out of tragedy something beautiful is born and this is true for Gioia Wines. While driving home one evening from my day job I stopped in a wine shop that I’d seen several times before but had never explored. When I walked in I was amazed at the rows and rows of interesting bottles of wines. I was greeted immediately and there began my incredible experience at Bernard’s Wine Gallery in Calabasas, California. One of the owners, Cynthia Rosenson, guided me around the shop introducing me to many of the unique and sometimes even rare wines they carry.

After learning I was a fan of red zinfandels, Cynthia immediately pointed out Gioia (Italian for joy). Upon first glance, the label struck me as beautiful artwork. When I mentioned that to Cynthia she began to tell me the story of how this wine came into being. The maker of Gioia Wines is Teri Love. Her son, Tyler, had study in Italy and developed a very strong passion for wines. Unfortunately when Tyler returned to the States he and his best friend were tragically killed in a motorcycle accident on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu.

It was after the lost of her son (the joy of her life) that she decided to do something to memorialize him. From this tragedy Gioia Wines was born and the label on all of the Gioia wine bottles is a beautiful symbol expressing the love for Teri continues to feel for son. There is a heart (for the name Love), a crown because Tyler was her prince, Tyler’s angel wings as Teri believes they appear and a beautiful golden square with the name of the wine in the middle representing her golden child.

Upon hearing this incredible story, I was inclined to buy the wine, if for no other reason, to support Teri in her efforts to keep the memory of her son alive. So I purchased a bottle. A few weeks later, prior to my trip to Europe, I decided to try the Gioia Zinfandel. I was completely blown away. First your nose is invited in by a floral parade including the beautiful scent of rose oil. Next your palate springs to life as the flavors of berries and figs roll over your tongue giving way to the secret hint of vanilla that caresses the back of your tongue. Gioia’s Zinfandel is uncharacteristic to most zinfandels, which can be a bit robust and peppery. The texture is creamy and light. Its silky, smooth finish embodies its name because it is a “joy” to drink.

Gioia Wines come in five varietals, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Syrah, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon and retail for about $20.00. Teri wanted to celebrate the life of her son and these wines are definitely a special celebration to his life and one of his loves – good wine.