More than 200 people turned out at the historic Buena Vista Winery tasting room in Sonoma, Calif., to celebrate the 150th anniversary of California’s first premium commercial winery.
The estate was founded by Agoston Haraszthy in 1857.
Congressman Mike Thompson (D-CA) entered a statement into the Congressional Record, honoring the winery and its founder. And current winemaker Jeff Stewart, who joined the estate in 2003 to lead its cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay program, noted: “I’m honored to continue the legacy started by Agoston Haraszthy.”
The most heart-warming speech of the day was delivered by Vallejo “Val” Haraszthy, the great-great-grandson of both Agoston Haraszthy and General Mariano Vallejo, both significant figures in California history.
“Beam Wine Estates, the owner of Buena Vista Carneros, has carried the torch lit by my great-great grandfather, and made this winery something I’m proud to be associated with again,” he said.
He went on to praise the estate’s Ramal Vineyard Syrah, saying, “Jeff Stewart’s winemaking skills are so good, one glass of his Syrah will improve your marriage.”
