New Gallo Headquarters a Rescued Landmark from Healdsburg History

With an all-star cast of local business celebrities on hand, the new local headquarters for Gallo wines to media and family members for a party. On hand were council members and winery patriarchs, architects and contractors, media and the 60-some poeple who work in the remodeled 100-plus year old landmark.

Most of the 80 Healdsburg-based employees of were on hand to help show off the two-story, 15,812-square-foot former Oliveto Wine Co. building at 845 Healdsburg Ave. at Powell. They started working there after a two-year renovation project on the big brick structure.

Architect designed the historic and "green" renovation plan, which preserves the original interior and exterior brick walls and the interior wood columns, but adds stylish touches, light-filled spaces, airy offices and expansive conference rooms.

Cohen was effusive in his praise for the of Healdsburg, saying it was one of the best experiences he's had in his career.

"You've got a city manager here whose mantra is 'Getting to Yes'," he said, referring to Marjie Pettus. Wright Contracting was a primary contractor.

Gina Gallo said she'd like to find a way to share the building with the public, and plans to explore using the picnic-friendly open space for events. At one time Gallo had considered using the Oliveto buiding for an estate winery or a tasting room, but decided converting it to offices for their local employees made the most sense.

The big brick structure is clearly visible set back from the intersection of Powell with Healdsburg Avenue.

Its location along the railroad tracks made it an efficient winery buiding under first the Lorenzini, then Passalacqua families, and labels including Vischia, Paul Masson and Gallo.

The iconic "Hearty Burgundy" was made here, from a blend of the red varietals grown in Sonoma County.

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