Discover the History Behind Buena Vista Winery in Sonoma

By Published On: March 21st, 2023

Step back in time and enjoy the wine.

Nestled just one mile from bustling Sonoma Square, Buena Vista Winery offers an idyllic escape for those wishing to explore and experience some of California’s finest wines. Founded in 1857 by the illustrious Count Agoston Harazsthy, Buena Vista is California’s first premium winery with a rich agricultural heritage.

Tool Museum at Buena Vista Winery. Photo Courtesy: Drew Kelly.

The Press House and Champagne Cellars, completed in 1862 and 1864, offer incredible historic tasting experiences.

Jean-Charles Boisset set out to restore and revive the winery while respecting the region’s rich history and property. Today, Buena Vista fulfills the legacy of its founder.

Famed for its heritage and colorful founder, Agoston Haraszthy – aka the “Count of Buena Vista”, Buena Vista Winery has been delighting wine enthusiasts with its delicious offerings since it first opened in California. The pioneering vintner left behind a legacy of fabulous wines that still captivate us! I’m inspired to carry on his passion for making great wine.

Jean-Charles Boisset

Buena Vista was California’s first grand winery estate planted with premium viniferous vines. It was the first gravity flow winery, the first to have caves for aging wine, and an early pioneer of méthode cham- penoise sparkling wine. Buena Vista is a monument to winemaking in America.

            The Courtyard at the Champagne Cellars. Photo Courtesy: Scott Chebia.

Now fully renovated and open to the public, Buena Vista offers a bevy of tasting opportunities for those who love wine and appreciate history. 

 The Lounge. Photo Courtesy: Buena Vista Winery.

Current Release Bar Tasting

With a rich history stretching back to 1862, the Press House offers visitors an immersive experience in California’s wine culture. Step inside and you’ll find yourself surrounded by tales of winemaking gone-by while being able to enjoy their current release tasting or even indulge in some ultra premium Private Reserve wines at their historic bar.

$25 per guest – Current Release Tasting

$40 per guest – Private Reserve Tasting

Add an Oakville Grocery Cheese Plate for two to your tasting!

$30 per guest

Uncover the Hidden Gems of the Press House. Photo Courtesy: Buena Vista Winery.

Current Release Seated Tasting

Have a seat and enjoy a blissful break sipping on four wines, from either the Current Release or Private Reserve flight. Upon availability, guests may enjoy this tasting in the Champagne Cellars al fresco beneath nature’s canopy – weather depending.

$35 per guest – Current Release Tasting

$50 per guest – Private Reserve Tasting

Add an Oakville Grocery Cheese Plate for two to your tasting!

$30 per guest

Grand Reserve Tasting

Escape into the heart of Buena Vista’s winemaking history with an unforgettable private seated tasting. You and up to seven other guests will enjoy a selection of rare library wines, ultra-premium imports, plus small bites for purchase – all in the historic seclusion of one their caves or other unique location! Sip away on this 90-minute journey full of flavor.

$100 per guest

Buena Vista Winery’s Tasting Table. Photo Courtesy: Scott Chebia.

Barrel Tasting and Winery Tour

Immerse yourself in Buena Vista’s historic winery and take a journey through time. Stroll past their gorgeous grounds, explore the renovated Champagne Cellar – which dates back to 1857 – then indulge in an exquisite flight of current release wines before heading into the caves for barrel-selected tastings. Dive into 90 minutes of captivating history and find out all the compelling stories that have led up to this point.

$50 per guest

The Cave of Curiosity. Photo Courtesy: David Wakeley

Bubble Lounge Sparkling Wine Flight

Step into an era of decadence, glamour, and vintage elegance – all from the comfort of The Bubble Lounge. Enjoy a glass as you sit surrounded by California’s first premium winery walls in this luxurious white décor lounge. Let the fun vibes of this place whisk you away. Enjoy a carefree time with friends and family while making magical memories to last.

$50 per guest 

The Bubble Lounge. Photo Courtesy: Buena Vista Winery.

Visit Buena Vista Virtually

Love wine but can’t come to the winery? No problem! They offer complimentary private virtual tastings over ZOOM, so you don’t have to miss out. Your personal guide will walk you through every aspect of your chosen selection, including details about where each delicious sip was grown and made.

Discover their Wine. Photo Courtesy: Buena Vista Winery.

They’ll also tell tales about Count Agoston Haraszthy—the founder of Buena Vista Winery in 1857—so that you can enjoy an even more thorough understanding before sipping away.

Treat yourself to a free, personalized virtual experience with the purchase of delicious Buena Vista wines! Enjoy designing your own wine that suits you perfectly.

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