Geyserville, Calif.—Working 65 consecutive vintages at J. Pedroncelli Winery gives John Pedroncelli the unofficial title as Dry Creek Valley's most experienced winemaker. Pedroncelli died Jan. 4 at the age of 89.

According to an obituary released by the family-owned winery, Pedroncelli was 2 when his family purchased the winery and moved to Geyserville in 1927. After two years of military service as a radar man in the U.S. Coast Guard, he entered Santa Rosa Junior College, where he studied chemistry and botany. He assumed winemaking responsibilities from his father in 1948, and returned to college in the early 1950s to take enology courses at the University of California, Davis. After the retirement of his father Giovanni (John) Pedroncelli in 1963, he also became manager of the family’s vineyards, expanding them to 105 acres. During his tenure, John guided Pedroncelli through the tough transition from bulk wine producer to premium winery, focused on producing varietal wines and upgraded the winemaking facilities. 

Pedroncelli is survived by his wife of 48 years, Christine, children Connie (John) Proctor, Richard Morehouse, Maureen Davison, and grandchildren Roseann, Lauren, Christopher, Ian and Elea. Also brother James (Phyllis) Pedroncelli and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by sisters Margaret (Al) Pedroni and Marianne Pedroncelli. A private funeral service will be held.