BEST TASTING ROOM
BEST TASTING ROOM P ARADISE RIDGE WINERY
By Rosie Padilla
P aradise Ridge Winery is a returning winner to the Tasting Room category in NBb’s annual readers’ poll, and the proof is in the view. Located on the hills of the Fountaingrove neighborhood of Santa Rosa, the winery is positioned to give customers a breathtaking view of the Russian River Valley. The winery manages to maintain an exclusive ambiance by selling wine direct to consumers. Proprietor Rene Byck told NBb that Paradise Ridge only makes about 2,500 cases of wine a year, produced from the estate vineyard. After the 2017 wildfires, the team
at Paradise Ridge decided to prioritize sustainability and utilize regenerative farming. This has been integrated into the business in myriad ways—only using natural herbicides and pesticides, the re- introduction of sheep to the property, and the implementation of biochar to encourage biodiversity, among other initiatives. General Manager Casandra Karkos Klein says innovation continues to be a priority for the winery and it doesn’t end at sustainable farming. “We are also working on new ways of making the tasting room more inclusive and distinctive—creating memorable experiences and drink options for everyone, not just wine enthusiasts,” says Klein. The incredible views are not the only appeal. The property is also
Paradise Ridge’s expansive views over Sonoma County are part of what makes it a favorite tasting room.
adorned with various immersive sculpture exhibitions that pay homage to the local community—both permanent installations and rotating exhibits. Paradise Ridge Winery strives to blend nature, wine and art to create a unique wine-country experience. In honor of Byck’s parents there will be a new sculpture show called “Return to Paradise” making its debut June 15. “We have a historical exhibit about the first Japanese winemaker in the world, Kanaye Nagasawa. He settled here in Fountaingrove and became known as the Grape King of California,” says Byck. As Paradise Ridge looks to the future, Byck shares a couple of upcoming releases, including the first ever oaked sauvignon blanc and stainless-steel chardonnay. Several short-term vacation rentals, known as farm stays, have been added to the property so visitors can stay on a working ranch/vineyard. When asked about her initial reaction to winning Best Tasting Room (plus second place Gold awards for zin and chardonnay), Klein says she felt gratitude. “To do what we do every day, with continued passion and commitment to community, it’s an honor to be recognized for what we do and create.” Adds Byck: “We [are] super excited and proud to have the readers vote us Best Tasting Room. [It] was recognition of all the hard work we have put in after the fires and COVID.” v
prwinery.com
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