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“If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.”

— Sir Isaac Newton, 1676

Grape growing and winemaking have been a part of our family heritage for over a century. With Maxenti, we honor that legacy while forging a bold, new chapter—uniting tradition and discovery. Our purpose is simple: to make history by crafting exceptional, small-lot wines—Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux-style blends, and Italian varietals—that express the best of Rutherford, Napa Valley, and Sonoma County. Rooted in tradition, driven by passion, and made to be remembered—Maxenti is more than a wine; it’s a legacy in the making.

Steve Tonella, 4th Generation Vintner

History of Maxenti

1906

Joseph Ponti, Steve Tonella’s great-uncle, emigrated from northern Italy to California to work in construction after the San Francisco earthquake.

1907

Ponti meets George de Latour, founder of Beaulieu Vineyard (BV), where he launches his 42-year career in winemaking.

1920's

The Roots of Tradition - Ponti purchases 40 acres of prime benchland in Rutherford that will later be passed down to Steve’s grandfather, Louis Tonella. Maria Maxenti, Steve’s great-grandmother, emigrates from Italy and settles in Rutherford, bringing with her a deep commitment to family, hard work, and community.

1920-33

Beaulieu Vineyard becomes the first nationwide wine distributor to the Catholic Church, cementing its legacy during the challenging Prohibition era.

1939

Ponti’s 1936 vintage Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon is featured at the San Francisco World’s Fair, becoming the first Napa Valley Cabernet wine of this varietal to receive international acclaim. This moment cements Cabernet Sauvignon’s rise to prominence in Napa Valley.

1980's

As a young boy, Steve begins working in his family vineyard pruning, canopy work, tying vines and hoeing weeds between the vines. (of course thats apple juice!)

2000's

Steve begins crafting his own small lot wines, laying the groundwork for his winemaking journey.

2010

Steve releases the first vintage under S.R. Tonella Cellars: a 247-case Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon, aged five years. Aimed at collectors, it sold out in six weeks.

2025

Maxenti wines were created to offer handcrafted, premium, and approachable expressions—designed to delight both longtime enthusiasts and new wine lovers alike.