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Benziger Family Winery: A Biodynamic Pioneer

Discover Sonoma's pioneering biodynamic winery, where sustainable farming practices create exceptional wines with character and conscience, offering immersive tours and tastings on a stunning estate.

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Nestled in the Sonoma Mountain appellation of Glen Ellen, California, Benziger Family Winery offers a unique wine-tasting experience rooted in biodynamic farming. Since 1981, the Benziger family has been committed to crafting world-class wines while prioritizing the health of their 85-acre estate. Visitors can explore the picturesque grounds, complete with terraced vineyards, lush gardens, and wine caves, on guided tours that delve into the winery's sustainable practices. Sample award-winning wines in the tasting room or during a seated tasting, and discover the difference that biodynamic farming makes in the flavor and quality of Benziger's celebrated wines. With its stunning scenery and dedication to environmental stewardship, Benziger Family Winery provides an unforgettable wine country experience for both novice and seasoned enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Benziger Family 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

  • Book tours and tastings in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability for specific experiences like the Biodynamic Vineyard Tram Tour.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours of the vineyards and gardens, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday for a less crowded experience and a more intimate tasting.
  • Check the winery's event calendar for special events like winemaker dinners or vineyard hikes.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, but remember that outside food is allowed at picnic tables with a minimum purchase of one bottle of wine for every two guests, and reservations are required.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Sonoma Plaza, head north on CA-12 towards Glen Ellen. Continue for approximately 7 miles. Turn left onto London Ranch Road. The Benziger Family Winery will be on your right in about 1 mile. Parking is available on-site free of charge.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Glen Ellen, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Benziger Family Winery takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Expect to pay around $15-$25, but be aware that ride-share availability can be limited in this area, so pre-booking is highly recommended.

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Discover more about Benziger Family Winery

Benziger Family Winery, a Sonoma Mountain gem, offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of biodynamic winemaking. More than just a winery, it's a living, breathing ecosystem where family tradition meets environmental consciousness. Founded in 1981, the Benziger family pioneered biodynamic farming practices, transforming their 85-acre estate into a model of sustainability. Today, the winery stands as a testament to their commitment to crafting exceptional wines while nurturing the land for future generations. The Benziger story began long before their arrival in Sonoma. Chris Benziger's grandfather, a wine and spirits importer in New York, turned to bootlegging during Prohibition, adding a colorful chapter to the family history. In the late 1970s, Mike Benziger, driven by a passion for winemaking, convinced his father to invest in a vineyard. After searching extensively, they found a promising property in Glen Ellen, a site with a history as rich as the soil itself. The land, first settled in the 1860s, had fallen into disrepair after facing challenges from phylloxera, the 1906 earthquake, and Prohibition. For nearly half a century, it remained a ghost town until a doctor purchased the ranch in the early 1970s. The doctor planted vines, but they were allegedly a cover for a more illicit crop: marijuana. The Benziger family purchased the property on Halloween in 1980, embarking on a journey to revitalize the land and establish their family winery. Initially, the Benzigers followed conventional farming methods, but they soon realized that these practices were detrimental to the environment. Erosion became a problem, and the quality of their wines suffered. Inspired by a desire to restore the land's natural balance, they turned to biodynamic farming. In 1995, they began the transition, working with biodynamic consultant Alan York. By 2000, the estate achieved Demeter Biodynamic certification, a milestone that solidified their commitment to sustainable practices. Biodynamic farming goes beyond organic methods, viewing the entire estate as a single, interconnected organism. It emphasizes biodiversity, soil health, and natural preparations to enhance the vitality of the land. At Benziger, diverse plants attract beneficial insects and birds, sheep and cows graze among the vines, and natural compost nourishes the soil. This holistic approach not only promotes a healthy ecosystem but also translates into wines with greater depth, complexity, and character. Visitors to Benziger Family Winery can immerse themselves in this unique world through a variety of engaging experiences. The Tribute Estate Tour & Tasting offers an in-depth look at the biodynamic farming practices, including a stop in the wine cave, followed by a seated tasting of estate wines. The Biodynamic Vineyard Tram Tour provides a closer look at the vineyards, fermentation facility, crush pad, and barrel caves, with a wine tasting at the conclusion. For a more casual experience, guests can enjoy a seated tasting on the terrace or a wine flight in the tasting room and gift shop. The winery's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the vineyards. Benziger recycles water used in the harvest and winemaking process through constructed wetlands and a pond treatment system. This recycled water irrigates the vineyards, landscaping, and gardens, reducing their environmental impact. The winery also provides ongoing education to its workers on water conservation practices. Benziger Family Winery is more than just a place to taste wine; it's a destination where visitors can connect with nature, learn about sustainable farming, and experience the passion and dedication of a family committed to crafting exceptional wines while protecting the environment. It's a testament to the belief that great wine begins with healthy land.

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