Buena Vista Winery: Where California’s Wine Story Begins

When you visit wine country, there’s something special about stepping onto historic ground—and that’s exactly what Buena Vista Winery Sonoma delivers. Just a few minutes from Sonoma Plaza, it’s considered California’s very first premium winery, dating all the way back to 1857.

I couldn’t wait to visit and experience the deep roots of California wine history firsthand—and of course, to taste a few favorites along the way.

First Impressions

Walking up to Buena Vista feels like stepping back in time. Towering oaks frame historic stone buildings from the 1800s, and the whole property carries the spirit of Count Agoston Haraszthy—the adventurous Hungarian immigrant who founded the winery and helped shape California’s wine industry.

The grounds are stunning and beautifully maintained, with plenty of places to sit and sip under the sun. We spent time wandering through the peaceful courtyard, soaking in the history and charm without feeling rushed.

What We Tasted

The tasting menu at Buena Vista featured a great mix of history, heritage, and serious winemaking talent. Every glass seemed to tell a little story—and it made it very hard to pick favorites

• The Sheriff Sonoma County
  A bold red blend that really sets the tone for Buena Vista’s style. Rich layers of blackberry, dark plum, and a little peppery spice, tied together with just a hint of smoky oak. It’s powerful but smooth, and a must-try if you love a full-bodied red that still feels elegant.
• Count’s Selection Pinot Gris
  Crisp, bright, and refreshing. This white was packed with notes of citrus and green apple, with just enough minerality to make it interesting. It’s the kind of wine you want to sip slowly on a sunny afternoon—and a perfect match for the courtyard setting.
• Geza’s Selection Pinot Noir
  A beautiful, fruit-driven Pinot Noir with layers of ripe cherry, strawberry, and a touch of earthy spice. Silky and soft on the palate, with just enough structure to give it depth. This was one of those wines that keeps you coming back for just one more sip.
• Antal’s Selection Zinfandel
  Classic Sonoma Zin—full of juicy raspberry and blackberry flavors, rounded out by a nice spicy kick. It’s bold but balanced, with enough finesse to make it feel polished rather than overwhelming.
• Attila’s Selection Zinfandel
  If you love a richer, more intense style, Attila’s Selection delivers. Darker fruits like black cherry and plum, plus deeper spice notes. Hard to choose between the two Zins—they each bring something different to the table!
• Tokaji-Style White
  Inspired by Count Haraszthy’s Hungarian heritage, this sweet white wine was a standout. Lush flavors of honey, apricot, and golden peach, balanced by a crisp acidity that kept it from feeling heavy. A perfect ending to the tasting lineup. (And a little bittersweet, because they can’t ship it to Georgia—we made sure to enjoy every drop while we could.)

Each wine felt thoughtfully crafted, showcasing not only the diversity of Sonoma but also Buena Vista’s long-standing commitment to honoring both tradition and innovation.

A Peek Inside the Bubble Lounge

During our tasting, our host gave us a special peek inside the Bubble Lounge—a stylish space tucked into Buena Vista’s historic stone cellars. Once used for sparkling wine production, today the Bubble Lounge mixes old-world charm with a little modern flair

With dramatic stone walls, cozy seating, and sparkling touches everywhere, it felt like a hidden gem you’d stumble upon during your visit. It added just the right amount of “extra” to an already unforgettable experience.

Tips for Visiting

• No tour needed to enjoy the grounds—you can absolutely explore at your own pace, like we did.
• Make a reservation for your tasting, especially on weekends.
• Don’t rush—there’s so much history to soak in across the courtyard and inside the tasting rooms.
• Midweek visits tend to be a little quieter and more personal.

Why Buena Vista is a Sonoma Must-Visit

Buena Vista Winery Sonoma isn’t just another stop on the Sonoma wine trail—it’s a piece of California’s wine history. Between the gorgeous setting, the connection to the past, and some seriously memorable wines, it’s a visit that feels both timeless and truly special.

Whether you’re drawn in by the story of the Count, the beauty of the estate, or simply the promise of a great glass of wine, Buena Vista is a place you’ll be glad you didn’t miss

Cheers!