VJB Vineyard & Cellars: A Taste of Italy in Sonoma

VJB Vineyard & Cellars transports visitors to the heart of Italy with its charming Tuscan-style villa, marketplace, and dedication to Italian varietals. Founded by the Belmonte family, VJB Cellars is named in memory of Victor Joseph Belmonte, honoring his passion for winemaking. The family's story began in Bonito, Italy, where Vittorio and Maria Belmonte instilled a love for Italian traditions. In the late 1990s, sons Henry and Victor envisioned crafting family wines to serve at their popular Italian restaurant in Santa Rosa. Following Victor's unexpected passing, the family persevered, opening a tasting room in Kenwood in 2003. In 2012, they expanded, creating a stunning Tuscan-style villa that houses the tasting room, marketplace, and deli. Visitors can savor a diverse portfolio of Italian varietals, wood-fired pizzas, and home-style Italian cuisine prepared by Maria Belmonte. The winery produces small-lot, handcrafted wines, primarily from their 24-acre estate, including Zinfandel vines planted in 1882. VJB Cellars offers various tasting experiences, from seated tastings amidst the vineyards to casual tastings on the piazza. The marketplace features imported Italian goods, artisan chocolates, and locally-made gelato. With its warm hospitality and dedication to quality, VJB Cellars provides an unforgettable taste of Italy in the Sonoma Valley.