brianza gardens & winery 

Our Story

In 2010, Founder and Owner, Tony Parnigoni, purchased the historic farm land that Brianza now sits on. The land had been continuously farmed since 1843. The root cellar on the original home still stands today along with a beautiful 230 year old Shagbark Hickory tree. Historically, tobacco, corn, soybean, and cattle dominated the property. Today, grapevines, blackberries, and many fruit trees dot the property.

In 2012, construction of the winery, the Parnigoni residence, and a complete remodel of the “Cottage” began. In 2013, the first of 3900 grape vines were planted. The winery opened to the public in 2015. In this same year, Tony and Deb Parnigoni were married. In 2017, the “Bungalow” and “Winemaker’s Suite” were built finishing off what is now three vacation rentals on the grounds.

So, what is the “rest of the story”? How and why did Tony get into the winery business?

The dream started in 1997. A full 13 years prior to the establishment of Brianza. After leaving Procter and Gamble in 1987 at the age of 24, Tony established two companies based out of Atlanta, Ga. Marketplace Promotions and Retail Support Force. These companies focused on in store grocery promotions and retail merchandising. The businesses grew to encompass five offices covering 18 States with over 1000 employees. An offer was made by a national food brokerage business to acquire Retail Support Force and Tony accepted. At this time, the decision was made to sell Marketplace Promotions to another entity. A moment in time occurred and Tony explored winery ownership opportunities in California and Oregon in 1997. Alas, the risk was too great moving a family with three small children across the country and no experience in the industry.

The University of Kentucky horticulture department helped Tony with vineyard development, and he hired Jim Wight of Wight Meyer Vineyards as a consultant to teach him wine making. Jim hand held Tony for two years, along with many classes taken at the University of California – Davis. Today, Jim and Tony remain great friends and trade grapes and borrow equipment from each other as needed.
The winery today consists of a tasting room, banquet hall, large attached winery, and plenty of covered and open air outdoor seating. A short walk to the gardens right in the middle of the vineyard, and to the covered bridge, is a must experience. The tasting room is open to the public six days a week all year round. As of 2024, the winery produces over 3500 cases, yet only sells out of the winery. Over 800 wine club memberships testify to the quality and experience. Three vacation rentals, hosting showers, rehearsal dinners, private parties, and weddings round out the Brianza experience and opportunity.

Come out and enjoy our award winning wines, and ask to meet the owners Tony and Deb Parnigoni. They are sure to be around continuing to enjoy the dream that started in 1997.