Mosley returns to Cinnabar

Accomplished winemaker takes over in June

CINNABAR LEGACY Ron Mosley (second from right) is shown in this undated photo with Cinnabar founder Tom Mudd (from left), Suzanne Frontz and George Troquato.

Cinnabar, one of the most established brands in Santa Clara County, is under new ownership.

What began three decades ago as the dream of Cinnabar’s founder, Tom Mudd (1942-2007), continues in the capable hands of Ron Mosley, the original vineyard manager for the Santa Cruz Mountain brand, to whom Mudd’s heirs recently sold the brand.

Tasked with clearing the land and planting vineyards, Mosley was hired by Mudd in June 1983. He built the original winery, now the home of Domaine Eden, where he helped make the first barrels of Cinnabar’s cabernet in 1986.

“Exactly 36 years later, I am reconnecting with this brand that is so dear to my heart,” said Mosley, who managed Cinnabar’s property until it was sold in 2007. “I was there by Tom’s side to help make his vision a reality, and am honored to be able to continue Cinnabar’s legacy today.”

Mosley and his wife, Lynne, take over management of the Cinnabar Tasting Room in downtown Saratoga in June.

Mosley is the owner of Tass Vineyards & Winery, as well as Vinescape Inc., a vineyard management company with more than 80 clients in the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Santa Clara Valley.

Cinnabar’s longtime winemaker George Troquato and cellar master Alejandro Aldama will continue to make wine for the successful Cinnabar brand, and business will continue as usual.

“My goal is to keep making great wine,” Mosley said, “and to ensure that Cinnabar continues to thrive.”

Cinnabar Winery Tasting Room is located at 14612 Big Basin Way in Saratoga.