Historic Wine Tool Museum
There’s more to winemaking than barrels and vines. A collection of historic French viticulture tools is showcased in the new Wine Tool Museum at Buena Vista Winery, 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, California.
A special permit from the French government was needed to bring the tools to America. From picks and plow blades to handcrafted barrel spigots, these items represent state-of-the art viticulture during the late 1800s, both in Europe and in California.
In the museum, the tools are theatrically displayed in artistic patterns against the ancient stone walls of the Buena Vista Champagne Cellars. And when the lights go out, visitors enjoy a 20-minute light, sound, and visual show, presenting the history of winemaking through its tools. The engaging program is narrated by Buena Vista’s colorful founder Count Agoston Haraszthy, as personified by actor George Webber.
Tours of the museum are combined with tasting of Buena Vista wines and an exploration of the winery’s recently renovated historic property and Champagne Cellars.
The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with tours offers at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m. Reservations are required. The cost is $25 per person for the museum tour and tasting. Families are offered a museum-only experience for $10 per person — children are admitted free with a paying adult.
(Photo courtesy of Buena Vista Winery)