Carneros Center
“What is Carneros?” and “Are we in it?” are two questions posed frequently by visitors to Artesa, which led to the creation of the Carneros Center. The answer to the second query is a simple, “yes,” but the first question required several displays to answer.

Carneros is a unique viticultural appellation, spanning the southernmost portions of both the Sonoma and Napa Valleys, with a rich history. Tucked away in the gently rolling terrain are more than a dozen wineries, but because no town exists in the region, many visitors just drive past on their way to wineries and cities farther up the valleys.

The Carneros Center portrays the area in several ways. Visitors first encounter a large topographical map showing how the area is positioned between the marshlands and foothills of the Sonoma and Mayacamas Mountain ranges. The marine influence of San Pablo Bay is obvious. On a nearby wall are U.S. Geological Survey maps as well as the legal description used to define Carneros as an American Viticultural Appellation in 1983.

A 24-foot panoramic photograph of Carneros taken from Artesa occupies another wall along with additional views of the area’s boundaries taken at seven compass points. Finally, a trio of wall displays highlights Carneros history, natural history and terroir, those characteristics that make the area ideal for producing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wine grapes.

Codorníu Winemaking Museum
Artesa’s parent company, Codorníu, is headquartered in Barcelona. Owned and managed by the same family for 16 generations, Codorníu traces its history to 1551 when a family member executed his will bequeathing winemaking equipment to his heirs.

A large oak and chestnut wine cask and a wine press from the mid-16th century can be seen in the winemaking museum at Artesa, located right next to the Carneros Center. Visitors can also view 19th-century méthode champenoise disgorging equipment and wine vessels dating as far back as 2,600 B.C.

Tasting Room & Tours

Tasting Room
The Artesa Tasting Room and Gift Shop are located at the south end of the Visitor Center. Here visitors may relax at the bar or sit at tables and taste a variety of wine samples while enjoying the panoramic Carneros view through the striking prism-shaped window.

Tasting
Our tasting programs include a single taste of wine, a sample of six wines, or our limited production Reserve wines. If your preference is méthode champenoise we offer a glass of Brut or Reserve sparkling wine. Wine, wine accessories, logo’d wearables and wine country-inspired home furnishings are available for sale in the winery gift shop.

Tours
Tours of the Artesa winemaking facility are available free of charge daily at approximately 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Groups of 8 or more must have advance reservations for tours and tasting. Private tour and tasting options are available for a minimum of 10 or more. Please call 707-224-1668 for rates and to make an appointment. Tours begin on the mezzanine with a viewing of turn-of-the-century (19th!) poster art commissioned by Codorníu, Artesa owners, from among the leading Spanish artists of the day.

Corporate Events
We are fortunate to host a limited number of events for business groups with an interest in fine wine and cuisine. We offer dinners involving 25 to no more than 130 people and corporate receptions for 50 to no more than 200 people. Our Corporate Events Manager will be happy to provide you with additional information.