On July 15, 2023, Audrey passed away, just a few days before celebrating her 94th birthday. Her immense contributions to winemaking in Southern California will always be remembered and honored.
“It’s hard to think of Temecula Valley Wine Country without also thinking of Audrey Cilurzo,” said TVWA executive director Krista Chaich. “I know I speak for our entire community when I say we will continue to carry forth her vision for a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming wine destination.”
Audrey was married to Vincent Cilurzo, a Hollywood lighting director and Wine Country pioneer who won an Emmy Award. The couple played a crucial role in putting Temecula Valley on the map by establishing the first commercial vineyard in the region in 1968. They planted Petite Sirah and Chenin Blanc in the vineyard.
Over the next ten years, Vincent and Audrey devoted themselves to grape growing and winemaking. They read books, took classes at UC Davis, and learned from an agricultural consultant named Dick Break. He had previously determined that the soil and climate of the area was suitable for viticulture. In 1978, they opened Cilurzo Winery, one of the earliest wineries in the region. Bella Vista Winery now sits on the site.
Audrey’s influence extended beyond her own winery as she actively supported the growth and success of other local wineries. She was always collaborative, especially in the early years. As Temecula Valley became a promising wine destination, she spent countless hours mentoring and providing support and encouragement to those who came in search of their own Wine Country dream.
Many credit Temecula Valley’s reputation as an amenities-rich wine destination to Audrey’s hospitality. Early visitors to the region were treated to home-cooked meals and tales of Hollywood and winemaking. Audrey often welcomed hot air balloonists who had nowhere to grab a quick bite. Vincent Cilurzo’s 2016 obituary in the Press Enterprise reads, “They were treated to tales of Hollywood and winemaking and meals from Audrey’s kitchen.” Over the years, many wineries have followed Audrey’s example by offering dining and lodging options among the vines.
“For almost 30 years, Audrey was the welcoming face of Temecula Valley not only to visitors, but to residents, county, state, and federal officials, and vendors alike,” said Phil Baily of Baily Winery and president of the TVWA board of directors. “The coffee pot was always on in the Cilurzo house. Of all the people in the nascent wine industry here in the 80s, no one encouraged us more to start Baily Winery, and no one helped us more to get it going, from giving advice to loaning equipment. She will always be remembered fondly.”
Audrey played an integral role in establishing the South Coast Vintners Association, which later evolved into the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association. She served on the board of directors for several years, making significant contributions to the association’s growth and mission to promote Temecula Valley grapes and wines. The legacy of Audrey and Vince’s efforts will be celebrated for many generations to come.
“Audrey was a stalwart advocate and forthright first lady of the valley,” said Jon McPherson, master winemaker at South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery. “I am truly saddened that one of the last pioneers of our appellation has passed. We all are blessed to be still carrying the torch that she and Vince, and numerous others with them, set afire and started way back when. Let’s all dedicate this vintage to Audrey’s memory. Cheers to you, Audrey.”
