First founded 50 years ago, Russian River Vineyards is a Sonoma County icon and an idyllic winery destination. Through the years, Russian River Vineyards has seen many chapters with changes of ownership and is now flourishing, thanks to the vision and hard work of its team of dedicated owners: Chris O’Neill, Giovanni Balistreri, and Anthony Austin. The partnership was formed through a mutual love of fine wine, excellent food, and a desire to bring back the glory days at Russian River Vineyards.
Winemaker Anthony Austin, a Sonoma County native, has had an illustrious career in wine, which includes time working alongside winemaking master André Tchelistcheff. “When I was growing up, Russian River Vineyards was the epicenter of all good things,” Anthony says. “The combination of food, wine, and agriculture is very special here. This is a happy place. I’m home.” General Manager and Assistant Winemaker Giovanni Balistreri, whose family has grown Pinot Noir in Sonoma County for decades, came to Russian River Vineyards at about the same time as Anthony. Since Anthony and Gio have been on board, they have been creating award-winning Sonoma County wines that have been recognized by Wine Enthusiast.
The winery’s Corks Restaurant has also been renovated inside and out, and its culinary program has seen a complete rebirth. The only winery-based restaurant in the Russian River Valley, Corks features the season’s best from local farms, with an emphasis on organic and sustainably grown foods, to delight guests with dishes grounded in the Sonoma wine country tradition. Located in an historic 1890s farmhouse in a grove of century-old redwood trees, Corks was voted Best Outdoor Dining in the 2011 Bohemian’s Best of the North Bay awards.
Although he’s pleased with their achievements, Managing Partner Chris O’Neill is excited to do more. “We’re stewards of this beautiful and historic site,” he says. “Anyone with a passion for fine wine and food should visit Russian River Vineyards. Believe me, they’ll fall in love.”
For more information, please visit: russianrivervineyards.com