Casa Larga is more than a winery; it is a living tribute to our Italian heritage and the enduring legacy of our founders, Andrew and Ann Colaruotolo. Known affectionately as Mr. and Mrs. C, their passion, dedication, and love for family are the cornerstones of our continued success. This is their story, and ours. Follow the remarkable story of Casa Larga through the decades, from a small vineyard in Italy to New York’s celebrated winery.
Born in Gaeta, Italy
Andrew Colaruotolo was born in Gaeta, Italy, a small Mediterranean fishing village between Rome and Naples.
It is here, in his family's vineyards, that he first learns the art of winemaking and the importance of a meticulously tended vineyard.
His grandmother teaches him that only careful attention to every vine will yield the fruit required to produce high quality wine.
Journey to America
At the age of 17, Andrew immigrates to Rochester, New York, seeking a better life after the turmoil of World War II. His sister Eliza and brother Frank come with him to America to start a new live. Leaving another sister and his parents in Italy.
He begins his career as a mason, studying architecture at RIT and learning English at night.
His sister Eliza joins him, and together they work to build new lives in America while honoring their Italian heritage.
Marriage and New Beginnings
Andrew marries Ann Campbell, a Rochester native with a shared appreciation for Italian heritage.
Together, they founded Anco Builders, a successful home-building company that establishes their reputation for quality craftsmanship.
Their partnership in business and life becomes the foundation for everything that follows.
Planting Dreams
Driven by a desire to reconnect with his roots, Mr. C plants the first vines on a picturesque hill in Fairport, New York.
He names the vineyard 'Casa Larga,' in honor of his grandparents' vineyards in Italy where the highest quality grapes were grown.
What begins as a hobby soon becomes a passion that will define the family's legacy.
New York's 21st Winery
The first harvest from Casa Larga produces an award-winning vintage, earning recognition at wine competitions.
Casa Larga officially becomes New York State's 21st licensed winery, marking the beginning of commercial operations.
The early success validates Andrew's vision and his grandmother's teachings about meticulous vineyard care.
A Legacy Continues
Casa Larga mourns the passing of its visionary founder, Mr. C, in 2004, followed by his beloved wife, Mrs. C, in 2015.
Their spirit and 'old-world approach to making wine and doing business' live on through their children.
The family's commitment to quality and tradition remains unwavering as the next generation takes the helm.
"Only a meticulously tended vineyard will yield the fruit required to produce high quality wine".
Today, the legacy of Mr. and Mrs. C is carried on by their children and grandchildren. John, our Director of Winemaking, inherited his father’s passion for the craft. Mary Jo, our Director of Accounting and IT, ensures the smooth operation of the business. And Andrea, our Director of Marketing, leads storytelling and brand identity across all channels, while also developing new guest experiences and business initiatives that carry Casa Larga into the future
The Colaruotolo family sharing a moment in the vineyard that started it all. Together, they are committed to upholding the family’s tradition of excellence, ensuring that the Casa Larga legacy continues for generations to come.
John Colaruotolo
Director of Winemaking
Continuing the winemaking tradition with modern techniques and old-world craftsmanship.
Mary Jo Colaruotolo
Director of Accounting & IT
Managing the business operations with the same attention to detail as the vineyard.
Andrea Colaruotolo
Director of Marketing
Sharing the Casa Larga story, connecting with wine lovers everywhere, and leading new guest experiences and business initiatives that shape the future of the winery.