At the end of Old Winery Road is Buena Vista Carneros, California’s first premium winery. Being a historic landmark, it possesses the vibes from 150 years of winemaking, as well as a lot of California history.

Buena Vista’s founder, Count Agoston Haraszthy, arrived in Sonoma County in the 1850s and planted some of the state’s first European varietals, laying the foundation for the Buena Vista Winery. He has been considered the “father of the California wine industry,” due to both his extensive knowledge of grape varieties and his worldwide travels, during which he spread the word of California’s winemaking potential. (While exploring rum interests in Nicaragua, legend has it that Count Haraszthy perished crossing a crocodile-infested river.)

The winery’s park-like setting, along with the old rock-walled buildings, exudes a dusty sense of history in this marvelous canyon location. Stroll up the narrow road, surrounded by overgrown trees and dense foliage, until you reach the picnic areas and entrance to the tasting room. The vine-covered building is true “Old California” with its simple and elegant design.

Inside, the wood-beamed ceiling and tile floors contribute to the warm ambiance of the room. A long spacious tasting bar can host numerous visitors at one time. The walls have old maps and photographs, along with medals and ribbons. A
sit-down tasting experience is available and is accompanied by food and snacks. There are additional visitor programs including their Wine & Cheese Experience, their Twilight Tasting, and other options for private tours and tastings. Food is available in their small deli case to enjoy outside in their extensive picnic areas, some of which are tucked up against the hillsides.

The winery now focuses on its extensive Carneros vineyard holdings, producing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Merlot.