7 Wineries With Stunning Architecture

Wine tasting is more than just savoring a beverage; it's an immersive experience that engages all the senses. When combined with breathtaking architecture, the experience transcends the ordinary, creating unforgettable memories. From fairytale castles to avant-garde designs, these seven wineries around the world stand out not only for their exceptional wines but also for their remarkable architectural innovation.

Prepare to embark on a visual and gustatory journey as we explore wineries where design and winemaking converge to create something truly extraordinary.

Donum Estate Where Wine Meets Art

In the rolling hills of Sonoma, California, lies Donum Estate, a place where wine, land, and art harmoniously coexist. Founded in 2001, Donum Estate is known for its single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. What sets it apart is its integration of over 50 monumental works of art, creating a unique sensory experience for visitors. The Donum Collection features sculptures by renowned artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Ai Weiwei, and Yayoi Kusama, seamlessly blending art with the natural landscape.

Among the estate's architectural highlights is the Vertical Panorama Pavilion, designed by Studio Other Spaces (Olafur Eliasson and Sebastian Behmann). This pavilion enhances the wine-tasting experience, offering a modern take on Sonoma's agrarian architecture. The tasting rooms, redesigned by Danish architect David Thulstrup, offer stunning views of Sonoma's landscape. The estate's commitment to sustainability is evident in its biodynamic and organic farming practices, which create an environment where vines thrive and produce high-quality fruit.

Visiting Donum Estate is a holistic sensory experience, combining the taste of top-rated wines with the visual delight of world-class art. The estate's dedication to regenerative organic farming underscores its respect for the land, making it a destination where wine, art, and nature intertwine. The harmonious blend of these elements creates an international destination that appeals to both wine connoisseurs and art enthusiasts.

The integration of art and architecture at Donum Estate elevates the wine-tasting experience, making it a unique and memorable journey for every visitor. The modern design and thoughtful integration of art installations create a serene and inspiring atmosphere, perfect for savoring the estate's exceptional wines.

Local Tip: Book your visit well in advance, as reservations are essential to experience the art and wine at Donum Estate. Consider the 'Explore' experience for an in-depth exploration of the wine, land, and art, including an all-terrain vehicle tour.

Ysios Winery A Wave in the Rioja Landscape

Nestled in Laguardia, Spain, Ysios Winery stands as a testament to architectural innovation in the heart of the Rioja Alavesa. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the winery's undulating aluminum roof mirrors the Sierra de Cantabria mountains, creating a seamless blend with the landscape. Opened in 2001, the winery has become an icon, representing the innovative approach to winemaking while respecting the region's rich traditions.

Ysios Winery emerges as an avant-garde boutique winery, fusing Rioja's winemaking tradition with a revolutionary mindset. The building integrates with its surroundings, appearing as a wave frozen in motion. The winery's design creates a dialogue between the building and nature, enhancing the visitor experience. The use of horizontally placed cedar slats on the southern facade, reflected in the pools, resembles a row of wine barrels, adding to the winery's unique charm.

The winery's structure features two 196-meter-long concrete, load-bearing walls, tracing a sinusoidal shape in both plan and elevation. The aluminum roof paneling creates a material contrast with the warm wood of the facade, accentuating the roof volume and creating a kinetic effect against the calm vineyard backdrop. The winery offers premium activities and visits, including a wine bar where visitors can enjoy fine wines and snacks.

Ysios Winery is more than just a winemaking facility; it's a destination where architecture and nature converge to create a sensory experience. The winery's avant-garde design and respect for tradition have earned it international recognition, making it an essential stop for those exploring the Rioja Alavesa region. The harmonious blend of architectural innovation and winemaking excellence makes Ysios a must-visit destination.

Hidden Gem: Opt for the WineCar tour to explore the Carravacas vineyard and Los Prados plot, offering a unique perspective on the winery's terroir and winemaking process. The tour includes tastings of wines such as Ysios Blanco, Finca el Nogal, and Finca Las Naves, paired with savory aperitifs.

Marqués de Riscal A Dance of Titanium

In the heart of Elciego, Spain, Bodega Marqués de Riscal stands as a bold statement of architectural innovation, designed by Frank Gehry. The hotel's avant-garde design features swirling titanium ribbons in pink, gold, and silver, challenging conventional designs and blending into the Rioja landscape. Inaugurated in 2003 by King Juan Carlos I, the Marqués de Riscal Hotel is part of the City of Wine complex, which includes the primary wineries, modern facilities, and vineyards.

The complex geometrical structure integrates a reception, lounge, uniquely designed bedrooms, a wine library, and a spa. The building's design alludes to the wine and the corporate colors of the bodega, creating a dynamic and colorful structure. The titanium ribbons reflect the sunlight, creating a dance of colors that changes throughout the day.

Marqués de Riscal has a rich history dating back to 1858, making it one of the oldest wineries in the Rioja Alavesa. The winery has played a significant role in transforming Rioja into what it is today, combining tradition with modern winemaking techniques. Visiting the winery is a journey through the history of Rioja wines, offering a blend of past and present, art, oenology, and architecture.

The Marqués de Riscal Hotel is not just a place to stay; it's an experience that combines luxury, art, and wine. The avant-garde design and integration with the surrounding landscape make it a destination that appeals to both wine lovers and architecture enthusiasts. The swirling titanium ribbons and unconventional design create a lasting impression, making Marqués de Riscal a must-visit destination in the Rioja region.

Local Tip: Take a guided tour of the winery to learn about the history of Marqués de Riscal and the winemaking process. Be sure to visit the wine bar to sample a selection of the winery's renowned wines, including the Marqués de Riscal Reserva and Barón de Chirel.

Sauska Tokaj Floating Above the Vineyards

In the UNESCO-protected Tokaj-Hegyalja region of Hungary, Sauska Tokaj winery stands as a modern architectural marvel. Designed by BORD Architectural Studio, the winery embodies the 'Untouched Untouchable' concept, appearing to float above the landscape. The winery's futuristic, lens-shaped form brings a sense of modernity to the hills, honoring a landscape shaped by centuries of viticulture.

Sauska Tokaj winery represents a rare harmony between architecture, heritage, and winemaking excellence. The building rises from the landscape, appearing as though it floats lightly above the vineyards. The winery's elevated position offers panoramic views of the countryside, turning every visit into a sensory journey. The use of natural wood surfaces and local limestone cladding, combined with steel details, creates a harmonious blend of modern and traditional elements.

The winery's visible portion consists of two intersecting, lens-shaped volumes, each 36 meters wide. These volumes house the visitor-facing functions, including a restaurant, bar, and panoramic terrace. The functional spaces for fermentation and storage are located underground, where stable conditions are naturally maintained. The circular fermentation halls position stainless steel tanks concentrically around a central wooden barrel area, creating a clear spatial order.

Sauska Tokaj winery is more than just a winemaking facility; it's a destination where design, gastronomy, and hospitality intertwine with the story of one of Europe's oldest wine regions. The winery's design embodies a new energy, reflecting both practicality and artistry. The balance between preserving tradition and embracing innovation defines modern Hungarian winemaking, making Sauska Tokaj a must-visit destination.

Local Tip: Opt for a guided tour to gain insights into the winemaking process and the history of the winery. Be sure to sample the renowned Tokaji Aszú, a sweet dessert wine that has been cherished for centuries, as well as the dry white wines and sparkling varieties.

Antinori nel Chianti Classico Hidden in Tuscany

In the heart of Tuscany, Italy, Antinori nel Chianti Classico stands as a testament to architectural integration with the landscape. Designed by Marco Casamonti of Archea Associati, the winery blends into the surrounding hills with its earth tones and horizontal cuts. Inaugurated in October 2012, the winery affirms the historical bond between the Antinori family and their ancestral territory.

Antinori nel Chianti Classico is a place where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony. The winery reveals the past, present, and future of the Antinori family, who have been making wine since 1385. The design focuses on low environmental impact and maximum energy savings, reflecting the family's commitment to sustainability. The winery features a spiral staircase and rows of vines forming the 'roof cover,' seamlessly integrating the structure into the landscape.

The winery's gravitational design allows for gentler handling of the grapes, encouraging pure fruit aromas in balanced wines with supple tannins. The floor-to-ceiling glass doors and wide terraces offer stunning views of the Tuscan countryside, enhancing the visitor experience. The Wine Shop at Antinori nel Chianti Classico offers a wide selection of wines from the Antinori family's estates, including special formats and tasting by the glass.

Antinori nel Chianti Classico is more than just a winemaking facility; it's a symbol of the family's bond to its ancestral land. The winery celebrates Tuscan art of every kind, from the architecture slipping it surreptitiously into the hillside to the museum space hosting historical and contemporary exhibitions. The winery's elegant headquarters and commitment to sustainability make it a must-visit destination in Tuscany.

Hidden Gem: Explore the Antinori Art Project and museum area to discover historical and contemporary exhibitions that celebrate Tuscan art. Be sure to visit the Rinuccio 1180 restaurant, named after the family's first recorded winemaker, to enjoy rustically-inspired but polished dishes made with local produce.

Aperture Cellars Where Photography Meets Winemaking

Located in Healdsburg, Sonoma County, Aperture Cellars is a unique winery that merges winemaking with photography, reflecting the owner's passions. Designed by Signum Architecture, the winery's design captures the essence of both art forms. Founded by winemaker Jesse Katz in 2009, Aperture Cellars champions a range of expressive Bordeaux-style wines from Sonoma County's premier vineyard sites.

Aperture Cellars features a two-volume structure: a production space and a hospitality building. The large windows connect the indoors with views of the Sonoma Mountains, creating a seamless blend of the interior and exterior spaces. The winery's modern architecture is characterized by expansive glass walls that frame breathtaking vineyard views and the rolling hills of the countryside. The use of sustainable materials reflects the winery's commitment to environmental responsibility.

The wine labels feature imagery by Katz's photographer father, Andy Katz, further emphasizing the winery's connection to photography. A visit to Aperture Cellars isn't like any other in Wine Country, offering a unique experience for both wine lovers and art aficionados. The winery's tasting experiences are prepaid, ensuring an intimate and informative tasting featuring exceptional wines and knowledgeable staff.

Aperture Cellars is a testament to the artistry of winemaking and architectural design, inviting guests to savor remarkable wines and appreciate the artistry behind them. The winery's stunning modern architecture, dedication to hospitality, and exceptional wines make it a perfect destination for both casual tasters and seasoned connoisseurs. The serene setting and commitment to quality make Aperture Cellars a truly memorable experience.

Local Tip: Make reservations well in advance to ensure a spot for the desired tasting experience. Consider the Site Series Experience to dive deep into the curated vineyards of Aperture Cellars, showcasing the site-driven wines from single-vineyard locations.

Quixote Winery A Fairytale Castle

In Napa Valley, Quixote Winery stands out with its whimsical, one-off design that resembles a fairytale castle. Designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the winery's colorful and organic architecture sets it apart from traditional winery designs. The winery is the only United States project built by the Viennese artist, architect, philosopher, and environmentalist.

Quixote Winery strikes a seriously playful pose with its colorful ceramic tiles and shimmering gold onion dome. The winery's unique design enhances the visitor experience, reflecting an unconventional approach to winemaking. The organic architecture and use of all available materials, including rock, stone, brick, stucco, wood, and tile, create a world all its own. The winery's design features curving walls, undulating rooflines, and deliberately uneven floors, creating a tactile effect on occupants' feet.

The property is home to 27 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Syrah, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, farmed organically by the Ilsley Vineyard Management team. The winery specializes in estate-grown Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah, crafted in the silky, elegant style of consulting winemaker Philippe Melka. The wines are smooth and drinkable upon release and can be held for two decades or more.

Quixote Winery is a world all its own, offering a unique and immersive experience for visitors. The fairytale castle design and organic architecture create a whimsical and eccentric atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in Napa Valley. The winery's commitment to organic farming and exceptional winemaking further enhances its appeal, making Quixote Winery a true gem in the heart of wine country.

Local Tip: Explore the winery's grounds to fully appreciate Hundertwasser's unique design, including the colorful ceramic tiles, shimmering gold onion dome, and undulating roofline. Be sure to taste the estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah, crafted in the elegant style of Philippe Melka.