Kent Rasmussen Winery produces three different lines of wines, all beautifully made by winemaker, Kent Rasmussen. Should you desire detailed production notes, you can either email us for them, or go to our national sales manager, Ron Berger's website. KENT RASMUSSEN * RAMSAY WINES * ESOTERICA Wines can be found via online sales
It started with a midlife crisis...
Meet Bill Austin. While most men might opt for a convertible or motorcycle during a midlife crisis, Bill turned his wine hobby into a full-fledged business. Residents of Salinas likely know him from SaveOn Cleaners, another venture he manages—clearly, he despises having free time.
Describing Bill in a few words, "hard-working wine enthusiast" fits perfectly.
However, Bill isn't your typical wine snob. Initially, he often felt out of place in tasting rooms, not quite fitting into the high-class culture. Even as he grew into a bona fide wine enthusiast, he realized that much of the fanciness making wine culture expensive wasn't essential for creating great wine. Recognizing a need for premium wine meant for regular people like himself, his midlife crisis provided the perfect opportunity to act on this insight.
A small winery dedicated to showcasing the unique, outstanding qualities of the estate vineyard, Quail Hill Vineyard. The tasting room is actually modern but not cold since it opens up to a beautiful patio. They have awesome gardens and vines and its a great atmosphere for a sunny day.
Mark West was founded in 1978 with a singular desire—to craft remarkable Pinot Noir that delivers exceptional quality at an affordable price.
The name, Mark West, is an ode to a region in the heart of Sonoma County, one of the world's best places to grow Pinot Noir. It was here that the winery started, igniting a passion for Pinot. The facility in Sonoma has been closed and the wines have become a part of the Gallo Wine Family.
The Miller Family planted Bien Nacido Vineyards in 1970's. Togther with Winemaker Trey Fletcher this winery produces approx. 2,000 cases of wine a year. Wines produced are Chardonnay, Grenache, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Marsanne, Roussanne, Vioner, Nebbiolo.
We had a great time here. We stepped in here while waiting for another winery to open. The very first thing we noticed when we opened the door was the intoxicating scent of wine. We were able to take a self-guides tour around and realized the large barrels were right in the open, which was why the facility had that lovely sweet wine smell. Tour was timed perfectly, not too long, but not too short, and we had a super nice tour guide. Wine tasting after the tour was extra fun.
They express their gratitude for the loyal support of Sojourn Cellars. This year, Sojourn Cellars is celebrating the 20th vintage of their wines. As they reach this milestone, they are introducing a fresh new look and elevating their wine labels. They invite followers to join them on their journey, offering an insider’s perspective on the new Sojourn look and feel.
What remains unchanged is the quality of the wine in the bottle. The winemaking team continues to be the same, as does their commitment to crafting memorable wines from exceptional vineyards in Sonoma and Napa Valley.
Tasting Room & Picnic Grounds: Clos Du Val boasts one of the most friendly, down-to-earth winery experiences in Napa Valley brought to you in an incomparably beautiful setting. Clos Du Val offers everything from a casual tasting at their tasting bar, to formal tours and tastings with the winemaker, to large group wine tasting and blending seminars. Beautifully manicured grounds provide the perfect setting for romantic interludes or picnics with family and friends.
Hosted in our elegantly appointed Tasting Room and guided by our Estate Director, you and your guests will discover the unique terroirs of our Estate Vineyards as you savor a selection of six acclaimed single-vineyard wines.
Upon request and weather permitting, guests may also enjoy a scenic walk-through Skyline Vineyard followed by a tour of our Cave Winery. To ensure the intimate nature of your private tasting experience, groups are limited to no more than eight people, and reservations are required.
By-Appointment Tastings: Wednesday-Sunday
Start times at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm
Duration: 60-75 minutes
Tasting fee: $95 per person
Tours: Available upon request
Today, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines includes more than 900 acres of cool-climate estate vineyards in Monterey County, with an emphasis on Chardonnay, Riesling, Valdiguié and Pinot Noir, 2,000 acres in Paso Robles dedicated to Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah, Petite Sirah and other red varietals, and 33 acres in Napa Valley, highlighting Cabernet and Sauvignon Blanc. From this rich and diverse palette of sustainably farmed estate fruit, J. Lohr crafts wines showcasing bold, concentrated flavors and a vibrant sense of place.
