WE ARE THE prestifilippo FAMILY
Alessandro "Alex" and Charity Prestifilippo with their children and grandchildren
Our story begins nearly 30 years ago in the sun-drenched hills of Sicily, where a young dreamer, Alessandro Prestifilippo, imagined a life filled with possibility beyond the Mediterranean. In 1996, driven by passion and with little more than a dream—and not a word of English—he set off for California in search of his own American Dream. Just three years later, that dream began to take shape with the opening of Gourmet Italia, a restaurant born from family recipes, hard work, and a deep love for food and connection. It quickly became a local favorite—and even more meaningful, it’s where Alex met his wife, Charity. Together, they’ve built not just a business, but a legacy rooted in family, passion, and community.
Today, the Prestifilippo family proudly owns and operates several beloved Temecula eateries: Gourmet Italia, Spuntino Pizzeria, and Bottega Italia. Their children, Mimi, Luca, and Logan, are already helping carry the family legacy forward, from managing the family's boutique resort in Sicily to studying business and hospitality both in Italy and the U.S.
Just a short drive from their restaurants, nestled in the rolling hills of De Luz and Temecula Valley Wine Country, lies the heart of their winemaking journey. Across 45 acres and six estate properties, the family carefully cultivates vineyards and olive groves, crafting wines and cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil. The first vines of Cabernet Sauvignon were planted in 2003, marking the beginning of Poggio Leano—the signature wine label and a heartfelt tribute to the family’s Sicilian heritage.
Mimi Prestifilippo and her family in Sicily
POGGIO LEANO'S legacy
Poggio Leano is where passion met tradition, and the love for winemaking took root.
Today, it stands as the parent brand of their growing collection of wines and experiences, bridging the old-world charm of Sicily with the vibrant beauty of California’s Temecula Wine Country and Temecula Valley AVA.
In 2025, alex by Poggio Leano, a Sicilian-inspired tasting room and vineyard estate in Temecula, where guests are invited to sip, savor, and feel at home.
Along the Mediterranean Sea in Donnalucata, Sicily, the family cultivates 5 acres of Syrah and Grillo grapes, deepening their connection to the land that started it all. These special wines are served exclusively at their two boutique resort properties in Sicily, reserved for members of their Passport to Sicily Wine Club. This unique membership includes an unforgettable 7-night stay in Sicily—a true invitation to live la dolce vita.
Wherever you encounter Poggio Leano—whether in a glass of wine, a drop of olive oil, or a stay beneath Sicilian skies—you’ll find the warmth of family, the richness of tradition, and a legacy crafted with love. This isn’t just a brand. It’s our story—and we’re honored to share it with you.
