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Imagery Estate Winery: Where Art and Wine Converge

Discover rare wines and captivating art at Imagery Estate Winery in Glen Ellen, where unconventional winemaking meets a world-class art collection, creating a unique Sonoma Valley experience.

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Imagery Estate Winery in Glen Ellen offers a unique sensory experience, blending the art of winemaking with a captivating art collection. Founded by Joe Benziger, the winery experiments with uncommon varietals, crafting wines that defy tradition. The winery's labels feature original artwork commissioned from artists worldwide, each incorporating a subtle Parthenon image, a nod to the Benziger family's sister winery. Visitors can explore the on-site art gallery, sample rare wines, and enjoy the beautiful Sonoma scenery. With its focus on artistic expression and unconventional winemaking, Imagery provides a refreshing departure from the typical wine-tasting experience, inviting guests to broaden their palates and appreciate the intersection of art and viticulture. Enjoy lawn games, picnic areas and a relaxed atmosphere.

A brief summary to Imagery Estate Winery

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Explore the art gallery inside the tasting room to fully appreciate the unique blend of wine and art that defines Imagery Estate Winery.
  • Book a Collections Tasting with Gallery Tour for an intimate, seated exploration of Imagery's most coveted wines and the stories behind the labels.
  • Bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful lawn area with bocce ball and cornhole, perfect for a relaxed afternoon in the Sonoma sun.
  • Check the winery's event calendar for summer lawn parties and other special events that combine live music, food trucks, and Imagery's unique wines.
  • Take advantage of free passes offered if you visit both Benziger Family Winery and Imagery as they are sister wineries.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Imagery Estate Winery is located on Sonoma Highway (Highway 12) in Glen Ellen. From the town center, head north on Sonoma Highway. The winery is a short drive, approximately 1 mile, on the right-hand side. Look for the winery sign and entrance. Free parking is available on-site.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Glen Ellen or nearby locations like Kenwood, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. A ride from central Glen Ellen will typically cost between $15-$25, depending on demand and distance. Confirm the fare before you start your trip. On-site parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Sonoma County Transit Route 30 runs along Sonoma Highway. From Santa Rosa, take Route 30 towards Sonoma and get off at the Arnold Dr & Warm Springs Rd stop in Glen Ellen. From there, it's approximately a 20-minute walk (1 mile) north on Sonoma Highway to the winery. A single ride on Sonoma County Transit costs $1.50 - $3.00.

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Discover more about Imagery Estate Winery

Nestled in the heart of Sonoma Valley, Imagery Estate Winery offers a distinctive experience that transcends the traditional wine tasting. More than just a winery, Imagery is a celebration of creativity, where the worlds of art and winemaking intertwine to stimulate the senses and broaden the palate. Founded by Joe Benziger in the 1980s, Imagery was born from a desire to break free from convention and explore the uncharted territories of winemaking. Joe, whose family has been crafting wines in Sonoma Valley since the 1980s, sought to showcase unique vineyard sites and experiment with lesser-known varietals that often get lost in large blends. This thirst for experimentation led to the creation of Imagery's signature style: rare wines crafted from uncommon grapes and character-rich vineyards. What truly sets Imagery apart is its commitment to art. Each bottle is adorned with original artwork commissioned from artists around the globe. The concept began when Joe met local artist Bob Nugent, who designed the first labels. Nugent continues to curate the Imagery art collection, commissioning hundreds of artists to create one-of-a-kind pieces for the wine labels. The only requirement given to the artists is that they incorporate an image of a Parthenon, paying homage to a small-scale replica of the structure located at the Benziger Family Winery, Imagery's sister winery. This unique fusion of art and wine creates a multi-sensory experience that elevates the act of wine tasting to a new level. A visit to Imagery Estate Winery is an immersive experience. The tasting room itself serves as an art gallery, showcasing a rotating selection of the commissioned artwork. Guests can wander through the gallery, admiring the diverse styles and interpretations of the Parthenon theme while sampling Imagery's unique wines. Knowledgeable wine specialists guide visitors through the tasting experience, sharing insights into the winemaking process and the stories behind the art. Beyond the tasting room, Imagery offers a variety of experiences to enhance your visit. Guests are invited to bring a picnic and relax on the sprawling lawn, enjoying a game of bocce ball or cornhole amidst the picturesque vineyard scenery. For a more in-depth experience, the Collections Tasting with Gallery Tour provides an intimate, seated exploration of Imagery's most coveted small-lot wines, paired with local cheeses and accoutrements. This guided tasting delves into the stories behind the wines and the artwork, offering a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. Imagery's commitment to experimentation extends beyond its varietals to its winemaking techniques. The winery is dedicated to crafting wines that express the unique terroir of Sonoma Valley, using sustainable practices to preserve the land for future generations. This dedication to quality and innovation has earned Imagery Estate Winery numerous accolades and a loyal following of wine enthusiasts who appreciate its unconventional approach. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Imagery Estate Winery offers a memorable experience that will stimulate your senses and expand your appreciation for the art of winemaking. From the rare and expressive wines to the captivating art collection, every aspect of Imagery is designed to inspire and delight. It's a place where tradition meets innovation, where art and wine converge, and where every visit is an opportunity to discover something new. Imagery Estate Winery is open Thursday through Monday, offering a variety of tasting experiences to suit every palate. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended, especially for the Collections Tasting with Gallery Tour. Special events, such as summer lawn parties with live music and food trucks, are also held throughout the year, providing a festive atmosphere for enjoying Imagery's wines and art. So, escape the ordinary and embark on a sensory adventure at Imagery Estate Winery. Discover the perfect pairing of art and wine, and experience the unconventional spirit that makes Imagery a true gem of Sonoma Valley.

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