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CL Kvia Google

4 months ago

During my visit to Byington Winery, the estate Pinot Noir revealed an intriguingly mature aromatic profile—marked by notes of damp earth, forest floor, and sous-bois, accented by a faint oxidative nuance reminiscent of porcini and truffle. While some may perceive this as a touch of funk, it lends the wine a Burgundian complexity that will appeal to those who favor tertiary evolution over primary fruit. 88/100 The 2005 “port-style” dessert wine, *Mane*, stood out as a highlight—deeply concentrated yet finely balanced, with layers of black fig, cocoa nib, and caramelized plum. Its structure and length reflected both careful craftsmanship and admirable cellaring integrity. 90/100 The 2014 Bordeaux blend from Alexander Valley—comprising Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc—displayed impressive pedigree, with a poised tannic frame supporting a core of cassis, graphite, and cedar. This bottling underscores the estate’s capacity to produce wines of stature and polish. 93/100 The Chardonnay, matured in seasoned French oak, offered a refined counterpoint to the riper, butter-laden styles often associated with Napa. Its restrained use of oak allowed the wine’s orchard fruit, lemon curd, and faint hazelnut notes to shine through in a measured, harmonious expression. 91/100 Both the 2023 and 2024 Sauvignon Blancs were exemplary—brimming with energy, citrus zest, and mineral tension that spoke to careful vineyard management and precise winemaking. 92/100 Overall, Byington Winery demonstrates real promise, with a portfolio that blends classical sensibility and regional authenticity. Nonetheless, the aging staff and family-run structure may present long-term operational challenges if succession planning is not addressed. As a Chinese visitor accompanied by a young child, I found the hospitality warm, genuine, and gracious—a testament to the estate’s enduring charm.

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Sreraam KCvia Google

8 months ago

Visited Byington Vineyard for a wine tasting and had a fantastic experience! The winery is large and set in a stunning, lush green location with beautiful views all around. The building has a rustic yet exquisite charm, both outside and inside. The staff were polite, knowledgeable, and made the experience even better. The selection of wines was excellent, especially the reds. There is also a private hiking trail and a lovely picnic spot, though we didn't have time to explore the trail. Overall, exceptional service in a truly picturesque setting!

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Nikhil Srivatsavia Google

10 months ago

The greatest winery experience you could dream of. I made a reservation to do a winery tour and tasting and actually when we showed up, we were told there was a private event that was to be taking place there and were offered a complimentary tour and tasting for the following day. When I told Justin, the GM and gentleman I was conversing with that I unfortunately couldn't do that since I was flying home the next day, he was gracious enough to do a private tasting for us and shared a wealth of knowledge about the wines, pairings and the wine making processes. On top of this, he even comped our whole experience. I genuinely haven't experienced customer service this good ever at all. Their wines were fantastic and I cannot say enough about their GM Justin. He is awesome and I can see why the winery is awesome. I will be sure to return on following trips out there!

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Jim Fawcettevia Google

over 1 year ago

We had an enjoyable reunion tasting and hors d'oeuvres there. Nice site in Bear Creek reserve. Pinot was good, unoaked chardonnay interesting, and team gracious. We got good prices on shipments from the winery. Forests of nature preserve would be better appreciated if outdoor patio didn't overlook the parking lot, and if surrounding trees could be thinned. Takes a bit of a drive up a windy road; suggest if you have a group to get as small a bus as possible to navigate those turns.

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Natasha Lozanoffvia Google

almost 2 years ago

I absolutely love photographing weddings at Byington Vineyard & Winery. This location is such an amazing gem of the central California coast and Santa Cruz Mountains. This vineyard and winery goes to great lengths to create an amazing and high quality wine. The estate is so serene and scenic and provides countless gorgeous backdrops for weddings. There is a perfect spot to get married called Wedding Hill and the staff is so great and helpful. I highly suggest getting married here.