Truffle Pig Winery Prepares To Open In 2025 At Former Avensole Winery

TEMECULA, CA — The restaurant and winery formerly known as Avensole is under new ownership, and has become Truffle Pig Winery, in Temecula Valley Wine Country. New owners Robert Renzoni, Domenic Galleano, and Olivia Bue (Renzoni's winemaker) closed escrow on the property at 34567 Rancho California Road at the end of January.

The winery sits on 21 historic acres, with arguably some of Temecula Valley's most scenic views. The property includes a restaurant, a tasting room building and 15 acres of planted vineyards.

Renzoni told Patch that he, Galleano and Bue have plans for the vineyard, from replanting the vines to completely revitalizing the restaurant, which is slated to open around May 2025.

"Mollie Haycock, was just brought on as winemaker for Truffle Pig," Renzoni added to the team Tuesday. Renzoni's longtime award-winning winemaker, Bue, will oversee the Robert Renzoni's Vineyard offerings and the new label "Truffle Pig Winery."

The landmark transaction to purchase the ailing winery has been in the works since the summer of 2024. It marks a significant moment for the region, joining two of Southern California's prominent winery owners and winemakers, Renzoni and Galleano, and their storied family histories.

Why the name Truffle Pig?

Truffle Pig Winery's name refers to "the keen instinct of a truffle-hunting hog—uncovering hidden treasures beneath the surface," according to the winery website. "Just as the hog detects the finest truffles, we cultivate our vineyards with precision, allowing the land’s character to shine through in every bottle."

According to a statement, truffle hunting and winemaking require patience, intuition, and a deep respect for nature. "Each bottle reflects our dedication to quality, capturing the unique essence of our region with every sip."

Since January, Renzoni has been mostly quiet about the venture, making only subtle hints about what's coming over social media. This followed a disappointing October when the property sale was delayed due to the Avensole Winery owners' legal entanglements.

They announced the new name and teased what's next over social media in mid-March, always considering the history of the land and their family roots.

The property was originally part of the acreage purchased in 1986 by Budd Van Roekel and his wife, Maurice Carrie. The longtime Temecula pair later designated 21 acres to become the Van Roekel label in 1994. Ultimately, after Van Roekel's death, the family sold the property to the Lytton family and investors as Avensole Winery in 2013. By 2024, that land was in legal turmoil, and Renzoni and Galleano concocted their plan, bringing in Bue to complete the formula.

Truffle Pig Winery has deep roots in Temecula Valley's rich winemaking history. Still, they are not just revitalizing the experiences guests remember from Avensole, they are expanding upon them. The owners plan to keep former wine club members in the loop, taking over the former Avensole Winery social media accounts, allowing former members a clear view of what's in store for the new brand.

While discussing the restaurant, Renzoni spoke with enthusiasm. The trio decided upon a name: Domenico's Italian Chop House. They have been working on the menu, which is still being tested.

"The name honors members of both the Galleano and Renzoni families," he said. "Domenic is a name that is prominent on both sides."

The plans for the menu include an array of Amalfi Coast-inspired flavors.

"There will be something for everybody," Renzoni said. From fish tacos to Wagyu beef burgers, to tableside cheese wheel pasta presentation and tableside Caesar salads, the restaurant will be "Approachable. If you want to order a burger and a beer, or a salad and a glass of wine, all the way up to a Wagyu Tomahawk steak, we've got that."

Patch will follow the story as Truffle Pig Winery prepares and announces grand opening plans.

Wedgewood Weddings are still taking place on the property, according to a Wedgewood spokesperson.

Read also:

Avensole Winery To Close In Temecula Valley Wine Country