Sonoma Valley · Sonoma County · Sonoma
Buena Vista Winery
California's oldest premium winery since 1857.
4.5(725)
Rate this winery
Known forCabernetChardonnayBarrel TastingHistoric EstateKid-FriendlyDog-Friendly
About Buena Vista Winery
California's oldest premium winery, founded in 1857 by Count Agoston Haraszthy, the 'Father of California Viticulture.' The historic stone cellars and press house in Sonoma are a state landmark. Now owned by Boisset Collection, Buena Vista combines 160+ years of history with approachable, well-priced wines.
Why Visit Buena Vista Winery
Buena Vista Winery stands out as California's first premium winery, with a legacy that dates back to 1857, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about wine history. Imagine being seated in a historic press house that whispers tales of winemaking from over a century ago, as you savor a selection of their current releases—each sip revealing the evolution of California viticulture. This experience is not just a tasting; it's a journey through time that culminates in a moment of sheer delight as you enjoy a glass of their award-winning wine.
- Home to California's oldest premium winery, founded in 1857 by Count Agoston Haraszthy.
- Features historic stone cellars that are a designated state landmark, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Offers a unique Barrel Tasting & Winery Tour that includes a guided exploration of 19th-century wine caves.
- Provides a Private Experience that pairs wines with artisan cheeses and charcuterie in an exclusive setting.
- A dog-friendly environment allows visitors to bring their furry companions along for the experience.
The Setting
A stunning stone press house greets visitors, its ancient walls echoing with the stories of countless vintages. This historical landmark serves as a backdrop to the picturesque landscape of Sonoma Valley, where the sprawling grounds invite leisurely strolls amidst the vines. The ambiance is enriched by the soft sounds of nature as birds chirp and the gentle breeze rustles through the leaves, creating a tranquil space for wine lovers to explore.
The Tasting Experience
During a Barrel Tasting & Winery Tour, visitors descend into the cool, dimly lit stone cellars, where the scent of oak mingles with the earthy aroma of the historic caves. Here, the guide shares fascinating insights into the winemaking process, while you taste directly from the barrels, experiencing the raw essence of the wines at their most unrefined. The tour culminates in a seated tasting of reserve wines, where flavors burst forth, offering a rich tapestry of the winery's heritage with each sip.
Tasting Experiences
Current Release Tasting
$35Seated tasting in the historic press house featuring a curated selection of current release wines.
45 min1–10 guests
Includes: 4 wines, seated experience
Barrel Tasting & Winery Tour
$50Guided tour of the 1857 stone cellars and historic caves with barrel tasting, followed by a tasting of reserve wines.
75 min2–12 guestsReservation Required
Includes: Winery tour, barrel tasting, 5 wines including reserve selections
Private Experience
$150Exclusive private tasting in the historic tasting room with wines paired to artisan cheeses and charcuterie.
60 min2–8 guestsReservation Required
Includes: 4 wines, cheese and charcuterie board, private setting
Wine List (6)
| Wine | Type | Vintage | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 Approachable Sonoma Cabernet with black cherry, plum, and soft oak. Great everyday red. | Cabernet Sauvignon | 2020 | $28 | |
Carneros Pinot Noir 2021 Elegant Pinot with cherry, strawberry, and earthy undertones. Excellent value. | Pinot Noir | 2021 | $37 | |
The Count Red Blend 2020 Flagship blend honoring founder Count Haraszthy. Zinfandel-driven with Merlot and Syrah — rich dark fruit, mocha, and firm tannins. | Red Blend | 2020 | $32 | |
North Coast Syrah 2020 Dark and savory with blackberry, smoked meat, and pepper. Approachable and well-priced. | Syrah | 2020 | $22 |
Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
Approachable Sonoma Cabernet with black cherry, plum, and soft oak. Great everyday red.
Cabernet Sauvignon2020
Carneros Pinot Noir 2021
Elegant Pinot with cherry, strawberry, and earthy undertones. Excellent value.
Pinot Noir2021
The Count Red Blend 2020
Flagship blend honoring founder Count Haraszthy. Zinfandel-driven with Merlot and Syrah — rich dark fruit, mocha, and firm tannins.
Red Blend2020
North Coast Syrah 2020
Dark and savory with blackberry, smoked meat, and pepper. Approachable and well-priced.
Syrah2020
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