Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/759555
COVER STORY 56 / the tasting panel / december 2016 Through a series of truly unique guest experiences, a visit to Buena Vista has become much more than a wine tasting. It's now an experiential journey, one that includes the masterful character acting of George Webber, who portrays Count Agoston Haraszthy, and his protégés, who lead blending and tasting sessions. The decision to retain the authentic, rustic nature of the stone structure while creating a seemingly effortless and expansive level of comfort within its stone walls is reminiscent of the approach that's often taken with reno- vating old stone structures in France. Boisset has been heard to say that he's "not interested in doing anything in a purely conventional way." While his playful nature is readily apparent in the execution of each space within the winery and tasting room, his interpreta- tion, which adheres to the authenticity of Buena Vista's history like a well fitted glove, infuses the visitor experiences with energy and vitality. There are two museum displays to discover at Buena Vista—one on the upper floor of the tasting room and the second on the third floor of the winery building—but you won't find humdrum experiences. Boisset has transformed the stairway and the third floor of the winery in to a dramatically-lit and theatrically- displayed collection of rare and authen- tic 19th- and 20th-century European viticulture tools. An extension of the Boisset family's original collection in Burgundy, which is housed at the Imaginarium at Louis Bouillot in Nuits- St-Georges, the Historical Tool Museum takes guests on a light- and sound-filled journey through the cultivation of wine and the art of barrel making through the ages. As a catalyst of French and American culture, Boisset is an expatriate who fosters a deep connection to the history of his adopted country. "We love history; we were taught to treasure it. And in reviving Buena Vista, we have saved a national treasure that will be enjoyed for generations to come." What one man has achieved in five years, many would be hard pressed to attempt in a lifetime. Boisset has fully realized his vision for Buena Vista as the historic point of origin for wine in Sonoma County. The rising visitor count is a testament that the allure of the experiences waiting at Buena Vista are undeniable. The re-envisioned spaces within the walls of the original stone winery and tasting room exude warmth and hospitality; they invite discovery and reward curiosity for those who want a glimpse of California's wine past and a taste of her future. AN EXPERIENTIAL JOURNEY The welcoming interior of the original 1857 "Champagne" cellar. Vintner Jean-Charles Boisset is not interested in doing anything in a purely conventional way.