Fred Fanzia was born into what might be called “the First Family of California wine.” His uncle by marriage was Ernest Gallo, one of the founders of E. & J. Gallo Winery — the country’s largest wine company. Growing up in the Central Valley, his family became synonymous with boxed wine, eventually selling the Franzia winery to Coca-Cola. Along with a brother and cousin, Fred branched out on his own to start Bronco Wine Company that went on to buy the Charles Shaw label for $25,000, and which later would take on the nickname of Two Buck Chuck.
Wine critic Esther Mobley discusses the life and legacy of Fred Franzia, who passed away in September.