My note:An exciting new development for the site formerly known as Ampelos. Great new name! And rockstar vit leader Jordan Lomborg on board! Woo hoo!
Press release by Groundstar Vineyard & Estate™
Mar 20, 2025
LOMPOC, Calif., (March 19, 2025) – Groundstar Vineyard & Estate™ proudly announces its debut, unveiling a bold new vision for the Sta. Rita Hills property formerly known as Ampelos Vineyard. The 80-acre estate, including 25 acres of premium organic and Biodynamically farmed vines, has been reimagined under the stewardship of Chiara Shannon and Joseph Brent, who acquired the property from Peter and Rebecca Work in 2024. The renaming reflects a deep commitment to regenerative agriculture—a global movement focused on creating a healthier and more sustainable future for farming communities and the planet.
Carrying a Legacy Forward—With a Bigger Purpose and a New Name
Building on the vineyard’s pioneering legacy in organic, Biodynamic, and sustainable viticulture, Shannon and Brent aim to enhance the quality, health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience of Groundstar Vineyard by implementing regenerative practices such as reduced/no tillage, habitat conservation, and holistic planned grazing.
“At Groundstar, we are looking beyond fence lines to cultivate a living example of how grape growing and ecology can thrive,” said Joseph Brent. “We are not winemakers, and this allows us to focus on farming innovation and land stewardship. With regenerative agriculture, we have the tools and a roadmap to care for our vineyard in the highest way possible while making a lasting, positive impact on the environment and our community.”
The name Groundstar draws inspiration from the Santa Ynez groundstar (Ancistrocarphus keilii), a rare native flower once thought extinct but recently rediscovered nearby at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in Lompoc, CA.
“We were deeply inspired by the story of the Santa Ynez groundstar,” said Chiara Shannon. “Small but mighty, this rare, beautiful flower is local to our area and embodies resilience—a principle central to our mission. It also reflects the connection between soil and sky, a core tenet of Biodynamics, while offering a message of hope. We love our new name.”
Shannon and Brent bring a bold ambition to the estate: to become Regenerative Organic Certified®(ROC), ensuring their vineyard achieves the highest standard in regenerative farming. In December 2024, they welcomed Jordan Lonborg, former Viticulturist at Tablas Creek Vineyard, as their Regenerative and Biodynamic Advisor. Lonborg has since joined Coastal Vineyard Care Associates, which manages Groundstar’s vineyard operations.
"Jordan brings unmatched expertise in Biodynamic and regenerative viticulture,” added Brent. "Under his guidance, we’ve immediately begun implementing practices to build soil health and increase vine vitality. With Jeff Newton, Ruben Solorzano, and the Coastal Vineyard Care team by our side, we anticipate an exceptional 2025 harvest—with superior grape quality.”
A Destination for Sustainability and Community
Groundstar Vineyard is not just a vineyard—it’s a living laboratory for regenerative organic farming. Wine enthusiasts and the local community will have unique opportunities to experience the estate throughout the year. One of the first is “The Wilderness Table” fundraising event benefitting Los Padres ForestWatch, taking place at the estate on May 4, 2025.
"We are excited to share Groundstar with the world,” said Shannon. “Our commitment to regenerative farming goes beyond the vine—we hope to inspire others to see the potential of agriculture as a force for good, from the ground up.”
Join the Journey
To stay updated on the latest at Groundstar Vineyard, upcoming experiences, and the evolution of regenerative agriculture, visit www.groundstarvineyard.com.
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