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History 2024-07-10T21:15:41+00:00

SINCE 1869

Soda Rock is steeped in history, and if the mossy old stone walls could talk, we’d hear some colorful stories. We strive to honor what has transpired here over the past 150 years. Some of our wines pay tribute to Soda Rock’s past, such as the Wentworth Zinfandel for Fred Wentworth, the owner of the Alexander Valley store around 1870.

Soda Rock is the original site of the Alexander Valley general store and post office, and was once the central hub of activity for the valley. Historic records provide evidence of the first bonded winery on this property in 1880. Many locals remember Soda Rock Winery from the 1980s, when the Tomka family temporarily revived the old site.

When Ken and Diane Wilson purchased the property in 2000, the charm you see today was just a vision in Ken’s imagination. After years of neglect, this local landmark had fallen into serious disrepair. Recognizing the property’s historic value and appreciating the architecture of the stone buildings and water tower, Ken launched Soda Rock’s long-term restoration plan.

Today you see a decade of a carefully planned restoration using recycled and green materials whenever possible. Ken painstakingly sought out materials that could be reused, allowing the site to retain its essential historic character.

As the restoration of the property continues, we open our doors to share this remarkable site with our surrounding community and visitors alike; watching it once again regain its place as the hub of activity for the valley.

UPDATE 2019 (Post-Kincade Fire):
It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the loss of our main tasting facility. We will continue hosting daily out of our historic ‘Wedding Barn’ and our Downtown Healdsburg Tasting Room location. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to seeing you soon!

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