The Russian River Valley is notorious for being home to some of the best wineries in California. Arista Winery is no exception. Since its beginning in 2002, Arista Winery has shown a dedication to quality by producing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines in small lots. Their property also encapsulates the beauty of California wine country and makes for a perfect and tranquil tasting experience. Continue reading to find out why Arista Winery is a must-visit and one of my favorite Wineries in the Russian River Valley, as you’ll see on my Top 10 Russian River Valley Wineries. 7015 Westside Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448

To see my other favorite wineries in this region, take a look at my Top 10 Russian River Valley Wineries blog post here. 

Arista Winery

Arriving at the Arista Winery grounds, luscious greenery and charming architecture make you feel welcome.

Above is co-owner Mark McWilliams who took over the family business with his brother Ben in 2012. Getting to taste with him at Arista Winery was a real treat.

The spectacular Japanese Gardens at Arista were done by the same acclaimed Landscape Architect Harry Sumigawa who also designed the San Francisco Botanical Gardens.  The landscaping and natural environment at Arista Winery is reason enough to make a trip out. Getting to drink delicious wines with a view like this? I could not be more content!

To my left is co-owner Mark McWilliams.  Mark was a wealth of information throughout my 3-hour visit. We probably could have stayed and talked wine even longer although the winery was closing…

Mark explaining the incredible soil at Arista Winery.

Here, you can see the lucky lambs living on the property at Arista Winery. So cute!

No shortage of beauty at Arista Winery… This is one of their outdoor spaces where guests could enjoy outdoor tastings, a fire pit and even parties (pre-COVID of course). I can’t wait until things go back to normal and I can return to enjoy their fabulous parties. This winery is so so magical I’m sure their parties are quite the great time.

Pals Emily & Greg who joined for the visit!

One of my favorite parts of a winery visit is getting to walk the vineyards. I love to see exactly where the fruit is grown and develop a further understanding of what’s in my glass.

The tasting room is elegant and luminous.

We began with the Arista Winery 2018 Chardonnay.

Next up, the 2019 Pinot Noir.

Cruising around the property with bottles to-go. The best way to spend a Saturday if you ask me!

I had such a wonderful time with my Dad.

Thank you to Ben, Mark, and the entire team at Arista Winery for showing me a wonderful time and introducing me to some fantastic wine. I will be returning soon!