While Far Niente’s Bella Union Winery, led by wine-maker Brooke Price, is committed to innovation and experimentation, that spirit wasn’t reflected in their location. So when a 120-acre property on Highway 29 became available, they jumped at the opportunity to create a space that showcased their goal of being “a playground for the wine-curious.”

“They envisioned it as the physical embodiment of the out-of-the-box thinking that goes into creating Bella Union’s unique blends,” says Pacific Building Workshop’s Mike Riemann, who was tasked with reimagining the new location’s dour building as a compelling and vibrant destination. “We wanted to design a fun, multilayered experience that would appeal to a young audience, encourage repeat visits and convey winemaking’s inherent creativity,” he explains. A visitation permit meant they could consider events outside the usual stop of winery activities. “Of course they can have serious tastings,” he explains. “But they can also welcome casual groups, host creative events and offer cultural programming, like their artist-in-residence program, launched with LA-based artist Harold Mendez.”



Collaborating with JK & Co.’s Jason Kern, who wore the architect hat, Carmel Brenden, also of JK & Co., who assumed interior design duties, and Girvin Associates’ George Girvin, who oversaw the landscape design, Niemann led the transformation of the existing concrete box into a welcoming and airy structure. A series of distinct yet connected indoor and outdoor spaces, spread our over two stores, cascades through experiences including the Jewel Box, a glass-encoded room on the second floor that showcases breathtaking views of Napa Valley; The Wren bar, a lively outdoor patio and lounge; and the Winemaker’s Table, an intimate “chef’s-table”for oenophiles. 

“We took a challenging structure and recast it as a venue that can stand toe-to-toe with any of Far Ninety’s landmark caliber properties.” Adventure awaits!