Fodor's Expert Review Buena Vista Winery

A local actor in top hat and 19th-century garb sometimes greets guests as Count Agoston Haraszthy at this homage to the birthplace of modern California wine making. Haraszthy's rehabilitated former press house (used for pressing grapes into wine), completed in 1864, is the architectural focal point, with photos, banners, plaques, and artifacts providing historical context. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and several Bordeaux-style red blends are the strong suits among the several dozen wines produced. During appointment-only visits (weekday walk-ins generally possible), you can taste some of them solo or preorder a cheese plate or box lunch from the affiliated Oakville Grocery.