Bacchus Landing
Here's a little secret to brighten your day: what's a vibrant oasis of wine, art, and food tucked away in the heart of Healdsburg? It's Bacchus Landing! This enchanting spot is not just a destination; it's an experience. A mere 3-minute drive or a 20-minute walk if you're feeling ambitious, Bacchus Landing, with 8 boutique wineries, has become the new haven for wine enthusiasts. We found the facility quite by accident and were enchanted, so we made a plan to come back and explore.
Bacchus Landing is the brainchild of the Lopez family (Al and Dina, together with their children Monica and Francisco). The idea for the development was fleshed out in 2015 and came to fruition in the summer of 2021. With a Mediterranean flair, guests are encouraged to stroll the 3-plus acres and enjoy the wineries, bites from local food artisans, and music.
Bacchus Landing hours are from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and is located at 14210 Bacchus Landing Way, Healdsburg, CA 95448; visit www.bacchuslanding.com for more details. We had time to visit only two of the wineries during our first visit. Another visit is approaching, so stay tuned for more blogs about Bacchus Landing.
Smith Story Wine Cellars
What's Their Story
I attended a talk by Smith Story Wine Cellars co-owner Alison Smith-Story during the North Bay Business Journal Wine Industry Conference last April. Her talk was so compelling I knew I had to visit her winery.
In a world where passion fuels success, Smith Story Wine Cellars is a testament to the power of dreams and community support. Founded by Eric Story and Alison Smith-Story, with a combined 40-plus years of wine know-how, the winery has become synonymous with quality, authenticity, and perseverance. Smith Story Wine Cellars is my favorite type of winery to visit and begin evangelizing about – small, intimate, with an over-arching eye on quality without the pomp (or pomposity) of which so many other wineries seem fond.
Smith Story Wine Cellars specializes in small lot wines. Of particular note are their Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon (particularly yummy), and Pinot Noir. We were extremely fortunate to have Eric Story (co-owner) lead us through our tasting, making a special tasting even more so.
Tasting Room Ambiance
As you enter the Smith Story tasting room, a warm, welcoming atmosphere greets you. The decor blends rustic charm with modern elegance, reflecting the winery's philosophy of honoring tradition while embracing innovation. Visitors can enjoy a personal and immersive tasting experience, learning about the stories behind each bottle from knowledgeable staff. The setting encourages relaxation and connection, making it a memorable stop for wine enthusiasts. A lovely patio is available for outside tastings. We were extremely fortunate to have Eric Story (co-owner) lead us through our tasting, making a special tasting even more so.
Details: Smith Story Wine Cellars, 14210 Bacchus Landing Way, Ste. 200 Healdsburg, California. Phone number (707) 494-5575; reservations: tastings@smithstorywines.com; website: www.smithstorywines.com
Montagne Russe Winery
What's Their Story
Kevin Bersofsky, owner & winemaker of Montagne Russe winery, loves roller coasters so much that he named his winery after them (Montagne Russe translates roughly to Russian mountain- switch-back or a roller coaster). He's also been on a figurative roller coaster. He began testing his winemaking skills in a garage in 2006; in 2015, Montagne Russe Pinot Noir achieved a 95-point score from the esteemed Robert Parker. Known for its excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Montagne Russe crafts wines that embody the vibrant essence of Sonoma County. Montagne Russe Winery is renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Tasting Room Ambiance
The Montagne Russe tasting room is a blend of whimsy and practicality. The winery also houses Vino & Vinyl's Record Shop, a 2000-plus vinyl record store; it's fun to sip their fabulous Chardonnay and browse their extensive record collection. Sitting in their comfortable bar stools and with Whitney, our knowledgeable wine concierge, leading us through the tasting was a great way to spend an afternoon. Go big and try their food and wine pairing. It's one of the best we've experienced.
Details: 14210 Bacchus Landing Way, Ste. 101, Healdsburg, California. Phone number (855) 467-8773; website: https://www.russewines.com
Convene By Dan Kosta
What's Their Story
Renowned winemaker Dan Kosta, known for Kosta Browne, has launched his new winery label, Convene by Dan Kosta. Proving that even rare magic can find the same place twice, his new venture at Bacchus Landing features a stylish tasting room adorned with fantastic art. The crisp Chardonnays, emphasizing fruit over barrel, will surely delight Chardonnay lovers. Their Sonoma Coast and Russian River Pinot Noirs offer rich, vibrant fruit flavors that will satisfy even the most dedicated Pinot Noir enthusiasts. With winemaker Shane Finley leading the charge, expect even greater things to come
Tasting Room Ambiance
Convene y Dan Kosta tasting salon is the right blend of cool vibe with down-home comfiness to while away an afternoon with our favorite beverage. With concierge pro, Leslie Donnelly leading us through the tasting, it was the perfect way to spend the day. Make sure you check out the amazing art when you visit.
Details: 14210 Bacchus Landing Way, Ste. 300, Healdsburg, California. Phone number: (707) 861-8199) website: https://www.convenewine.com
Conclusion
Bacchus Landing is well worth a visit. It's a delightful way to spend a summer day sipping, strolling, and discovering its treasures.
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