Thoughtful business practices and a strong sense of place are at the core of Bella Union Winery, from farming and winemaking and all the way to hospitality. These principles guided the team through its recent facility and tasting room expansion and renovation, as well as a vineyard replant in Napa Valley's Rutherford region.
With more than 300 acres planted across three different vineyards, Bella Union, part of the House of Far Niente portfolio, focuses on sustainable practices and efficient vineyard design. The company recently replanted aging Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon vines at its estate vineyard to 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. In addition to switching varieties, Bella Union updated row orientation, heat mitigation strategies and drought- and pest-resistant rootstock to help the vineyard cope with today's climate.
The Rutherford property, which had been home to Provenance Winery, was purchased from Treasury in 2021. "We had grand plans to build out what you see today," shared Michael Accurso, director of winemaking for EnRoute, Bella Union Winery and Post & Beam.
Those plans, and the Bella Union brand, have come a long way. Established in 2012, the wines were originally made at a small winery-which they still own-on Bella Oaks Lane, but they quickly realized it was too small for what they needed to do.
