Somerset, California, is a small, charming community situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills within El Dorado County. Known for its scenic beauty, Somerset boasts rolling hills and bountiful vineyards within a tranquil rural atmosphere. The area is part of the renowned Fair Play AVA (American Viticultural Area), making it a notable destination for wine enthusiasts seeking boutique wineries in a natural setting. Beyond its viticultural appeal, Somerset stands apart from other wine communities due to its outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and exploring the nearby El Dorado National Forest. With its natural beauty, agricultural richness, and close-knit community, Somerset provides a picturesque and peaceful local retreat conveniently close to home.
At the heart of this flourishing wine country, nestled in a secluded valley amongst towering lines, lush vineyards, and beautifully landscaped grounds stands Saluti Cellars. Saluti, meaning “friendly greetings” in Italian, perfectly reflects how owner Randy Rossi has transformed his 300-acre tree-studded property into the peaceful wine paradise that stands today, ensuring all who visit feel welcome.
Randy’s journey to Saluti is far from ordinary. Throughout his demanding career in law enforcement and counterterrorism at the state and federal levels, he experienced some of the best and worst of humanity, leading an exciting yet stressful lifestyle working around the world. “To cope, I would go to a place in my mind, a hidden beautiful sanctuary with animals, ponds, and gorgeous grounds to walk upon. And of course, with fine wine.”
Years later, he vacationed in a lovely bed-and-breakfast in Somerset and instantly fell in love with the area and knew that was where he belonged. With a Master’s in business with undergraduate work involving agricultural economics and viticulture, it was a natural transition to become a vintner. “I became fixated on developing that paradise I had in my mind for all those years”, shares Randy.
Over the next 2 decades, Randy transformed his property into his dream, building the vineyards, wine caves, housing, barns, and Saluti Equestrian Center from the ground up. "There was virtually nothing on the property when I bought it. Roads had to be established and wells had to be drilled," says Randy, sharing he did most of the work himself, an impressive feat!
Traveling down the paved road to his estate, you can appreciate the time and effort put into this amazing place, as you are instantly welcomed by the soothing sounds of fountained water within a vast lily-pad-studded pond. On our first visit, my husband and I were greeted by Norman, Saluti’s Clydesdale horse, grazing on the green grasses nearby. He often can be found meandering freely through the vineyard. Norman isn’t the only furry friend you’ll encounter here. You can also visit the adorable little alpacas living beside the resident Saluti chickens. Or perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of the Scottish Highland cow herd roaming carelessly through the forest. With their long horns, shaggy coats, and natural sweet disposition, they are not to be missed!
For the more intrepid visitors, you can book a 1 or 2-hour trail ride at Saluti Horse Adventures with head honchos and experienced owners David and Brenda Ingram. With their herd of 30 horses, you’ll discover how to care for your horse with grooming skills and handling tips to keep your horse happy, healthy, and attentive during your trek. Whether journeying along the shaded, forested trails, making your way through the vineyards, or splashing through the Cosumnes river running through the property on their famous “River Ride,” it’ll surely be a day to remember.
The happiness of the Saluti wildlife residents is evident as Randy speaks about his love and respect for nature, a sentiment that's palpable in his tasting room, adorned with Zeus, their Great Dane wine mascot, contentedly sleeping in the middle. As he pours one of the smoothest Chardonnays I've ever tasted, it becomes clear that his award-winning wines are crafted with the same meticulous care he applies to every aspect of Saluti, from landscaping to animal care. Each sip of Barbera, Zinfandel, and Malbec was impressive, though unsurprising, given his dedication to excellence in every detail of his winery. “I am very hands-on in all aspects of the grape growing and winemaking process. We are environmentally conscious, using solar for our energy demand, and organic sprays in our vineyards to reduce fire fuel suppression. We have been awarded for our earth-friendly farming techniques,” he shares.
I found myself reluctant to leave at the end of the day, overwhelmed by the comfort and tranquility of Saluti. Fortunately, they have two unique and elegant overnight suites for guests, each with a full bath, gas fireplace, and King bed. The Zinfanden Suite includes a full kitchen, living and dining area, and a spacious deck overlooking the beautiful grounds, perfect for your morning cup of coffee or evening glass of wine. Accommodations include complimentary wine and access to the 4-person spa off the deck, a pool/spa combo tucked in the vineyards, and an exercise room. Guests can also enjoy bocce ball and a horseshoe pit for leisurely gaming. On Saturdays and Sundays when the vineyard is open to the public, they offer gourmet wood-fired pizza on the patio. Wine club members have access to Saluti during the week as well.
Also an event destination, they offer unique venue options for intimate and romantic wedding ceremonies, receptions, and other special celebrations. The patio with its rose-laced arbor gazing upon the tranquil pond is the perfect spot to say “I do!” Their large timber pavilion can host a perfectly “rustic-chic” affair, lit by Western-style chandeliers and towered by an authentic antique windmill adorned with a lighted heart. For a more intimate and romantic ambiance, you can choose a candlelit dinner in the expansive wine cave.
Saluti now even offers affordable elopement and micro-wedding packages for smaller weddings. Packages are available starting at $2500 and include a choice of the 3 venues, an officiant, a wedding coordinator, a catered dinner, and cake. Call 530-957-2528 or visit saluticellars.com for more information regarding all event packages.
Randy's journey to creating Saluti is truly remarkable, and the scenic drive to witness his beautiful vision come to life is well worth it. “We aim to make this winery a destination, not just a place to come for a tasting. To have our visitors walk away with a little better appreciation for elegant country life. We enjoy providing our guests with an exceptional experience by sharing our love of good wine, beautiful vistas, and our loving resident 'pets.' We make our property yours to explore with hiking/walking trails throughout. Our goal is to ensure you have many happy returns.” And that Randy does in spades.
"I became fixated on developing that paradise I had in my mind all those years"