The idea for Red Truck Wines was born from a single image. A painting created by internationally renowned Somona-based artist, Dennis Ziemienski, depicting a classic, old red truck became the inspiration behind this brand.
The light filled painting of a vintage truck set against a typical Sonoma landscape of soft, golden hills, bright blue sky and cotton ball clouds seemed destined to become a sensational new wine label with universal appeal. But the only way to achieve it would to couple the gorgeous label with wine that is both vivid and vibrant. Luckily, our winemaker was up to the task making Red Truck Wines the perfect wine drinking experience.
For more brand information, visit our trade page
The idea for Red Truck Wines was born from a single image. A painting created by internationally renowned Somona-based artist, Dennis Ziemienski, depicting a classic, old red truck became the inspiration behind this brand.
The light filled painting of a vintage truck set against a typical Sonoma landscape of soft, golden hills, bright blue sky and cotton ball clouds seemed destined to become a sensational new wine label with universal appeal. But the only way to achieve it would to couple the gorgeous label with wine that is both vivid and vibrant. Luckily, our winemaker was up to the task making Red Truck Wines the perfect wine drinking experience.
For more brand information, visit our trade page
Charlie Tsegeletos
Winemaker
Charlie Tsegeletos’s successful career in the wine industry spans over 40 years. He started his winemaking journey in 1980 after graduating with a degree in Agricultural Science and Management from the University of California at Davis. He enjoyed winemaking roles at Pendleton Winery, Hacienda Wine Cellars, and D’Agostini Winery prior to joining Glen Ellen Winery where he held the position of Senior Director of Winemaking for 15 years.
In 2002, Tsegeletos joined Cline Family Cellars and managed all winemaking, production operations, and grower relations. During his tenure, he played a critical role in building the company’s portfolio of nationally and internationally recognized wine brands including Cline Family Cellars, Cashmere, Farmhouse, and Jacuzzi Family Vineyards. He also produced and helped launch the highly successful brand, Red Truck wine in 2003, which the company later sold to Bronco Wine Company.
In 2007 when Jacuzzi Family Vineyards launched, Tsegeletos spearheaded the winemaking program, developing over 20 wines made from unique Italian varieties. He partnered with family-owned growers who helped preserve these lesser-known varieties throughout Northern and Central California. Tsegeletos collaborated with these growers to ensure the unique flavor characteristics of each varietal were maintained, and he enhanced the flavors in the cellar by embracing Italian winemaking traditions.
At Cline he successfully grew the winery production from seven to thirty-five wines for the domestic wholesale, export, and direct-to-consumer channels and in 2021, Charlie announced his retirement.
Tsegeletos was past President of the Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance, mentored many men and women in the wine business, served on wine judging panels, and continues to be a well-respected member of the Sonoma community.
With such deep roots in the industry, Charlie realized quickly it was hard to stay away. In Spring 2022, he came out of retirement as Head Winemaker for Rosenblum Cellars. His love and appreciation for Rhône style wines makes him the perfect addition to carry on Kent Rosenblum's vision and legacy.
