Buena Vista Winery — Attraction in Sonoma

TLDR - Very disappointing. Major tourist trap.

Wines are decent but there are so many unfortunate details that ruin the beautiful historic property. From the cheap looking, out-of-place cutouts of people in the hillside as you walk up the path to the winery to the garish jewelery and wine glasses designed by the owner sold at exorbitant prices in the tasting room, the red flags to turn back are abundant. The walls of just about every room are covered with framed articles about the seemingly pompous and self-indulgent owner.

We made the mistake of ignoring these red flags and going on the barrel tour. Framed on their website as a tour of the property, wine caves, and tasting of wines from the barrels, this was nothing more than a corny tourist trap. We tasted a grand total of one wine from the barrel. Of the 6 or 7 wines we tried, we were given no tasting notes - or any other information beyond the varietal and vintage. This tour is a hoaky play-by-play of the winery's original founder (who has no relation in any way to the current owner). Worse, this tale is delivered in the first-person from an actor posing as the long-deceased creator. It contains no information relative to the wines that are made today or what you are drinking. It also takes you through their champagne room, which is quite possibly the most lurid example of gaudy excess that is out of place in the Sonoma wine region.

There are so many details shared about the history of this man's family that have no relation to anything happening at the winery today, outside of some of the physical structures that stand on the property. Worse, it is revealed in this monologue that the original proprietor's grandson has a winery of his own today - in Sonoma, no less. So the sybaritic modern owner is profiting off of selling the story of another winemaker's grandfather to line is own pockets.

In short, avoid this place at all costs. It is the opposite of an authentic Sonoma winery experience. I am personally disgusted with myself for the sole fact that I gave them my money and allowed myself to be fooled by their...

It breaks my heart to write this review because, despite the issues with management, I love the staff here. They have always been sweet, pleasant, caring, and provided excellent customer service during my visits. However, if you're planning to become a member of this winery, you should know exactly how it works, as what they tell you during enrollment might not be entirely accurate. There are expectations they choose not to disclose at that moment.

I have been a member of this winery for a little over six months. When I enrolled, I was informed that I needed to purchase three bottles of my choice each quarter and that I could enjoy unlimited wine tastings. Additionally, I was told I could bring up to three guests with me. Unfortunately, it appears that this information was inaccurate. Recently, I was told that during my next visit, I HAVE to purchase not just a bottle but a case of wine. This revelation is extremely disappointing.

I have visited this winery several times and have introduced many people to it. If they are not purchasing your wine, it is not my fault; it simply means they did not enjoy it. I cannot force anyone to buy something they do not like. As for myself, I have fulfilled our agreed-upon purchases and more.

What hurts the most is that the manager did not call me directly or wait to discuss this with me in person during my visit. Instead, he had one of the staff members, whom he knows I deeply respect, deliver the message just one day before my visit.

Mr. Jean-Charles Boisset, I admire your taste and your dedication to beauty and design in your wineries. However, I suggest you choose your managers more carefully, seeking individuals with more maturity, experience, and a better understanding of...

This can be either a 4 star or 5 star place depending on who is serving you.

Look for Vasile Chicu, my first visit, I left considering buying 1 bottle. With Vasile's suggestions I ended up actually purchasing more than a dozen.

The samplings range from $20 or $35 for their reserve. That puts it at $8.75 for per one ounce for their reserve tasting with the wines ranging from $50-$75 They have some stellar wines however and their tour is quite nice.

If you get the chance defintely go do the "be the count blending experience"! You will need at least 2 days advanced notice. This gives them a chance to discuss with you how you would like your private label done for the customized wine you will blend. The second picture is of the private room that you will be in. You will be guided by a wine educator to create 3 different blends to your taste.

They also offer weddings, which is no surprise. As we toured I have to say all the rooms were beautifully appointed, perfect for pictures.

As with many wineries here, some bottles are only sold at the location. I'd recommend the 2015 private reserve Chardonnay ($55 bottle) as well as the 2015 private reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($75 bottle). If you join the wine club they are offered at a reduced price.

They have a few other options such as a picnic, a bubbles room and more. A fun thing to note is they are all in costume.

Note for people with mobility issues: The parking lot is not close to the winery. You can request for a golf cart ride up. There is also closer handicap parking up the ways, though it doesn't look like you should be...