Auteur Wines

Fresh - Elegant - Gracious This was our first stop on our wine adventure into the Sonoma / Napa Valley wine area and what a way to start off. Tucked off just north of the Sonoma Plaza this quaint wine boutique shows off some stellar wines of the Sonoma area. From the Russian River Valley to the hills of Santa Rita each pinot noir is unique in its colour, hue and taste. For me this was wine tasting at its finest. Very personal, low key and the attention was on the wine and the experience not just flogging product; a truly spectacular experience. One of my favourite wine critics Jeb Dunnuck ( who does like a rocket scientist giving advice on wine) gave the Manchester Ridge - Pinot Noir a 97. The wine is smooth with tastes of raspberries and cinnamon. A wonderful addition to my cellar. Reservations are required so make sure you put in your request early. Wonderful wines which I'm glad to have tasted and purchased as who can resist a lovely Rose which for warm spring days is unbeatable to have in the afternoon with bread and cheese. Thank you Auteur Wines

Chardonnay all day! Walked in for a glass or two. Patrick was amazing and made our experience fantastic. Highly recommended!

A fantastic experience. The Pinot and Chardonnay are striking expressions of fruit and location. Angie is a phenomenal host. Don't miss this charming, boutique winery.

Wow what an experience we had!! We met Angie at the door, and then Patrick and he was incredible! The Pinot Noir and Chardonnay were amazing!!!!

Great wine. We really enjoyed the tasting and hospitality. They were gracious enough to take us in without an appointment. We tasted a lot of wine throughout our trip, these were amongst our favorites.

This tasting room was suggested to us by a Sonoma native and we were not disappointed. The team took us in as a walk in from the cold winter rain and made the whole tasting extreme personable. We became members after our tasting with Zach and he was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the wine process. Angie also helped us with our entry and spritz before our tasting welcoming us in and explaining the wine making process. This is a gem of the Sonoma Plaza and I'd recommend this to any wine drinker.

Worst pace ever.stopped in 1 hour before closing and they would not let us taste wine. Hello bad business model, customers are key. Serve them and you might actually make a sale. Boooo

This is such a great place to sample some of the best wine. Patrick did a great job of explaining the different wines. Each wine was superb. We would recommend this place when visiting the area.

AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING!!! Google reviews steered us in the right direction for this charming little winery! We walked in and through the bungalow to the back yard where the tastings were happening. Warmly greeted by Zachary who took great care of us and was very fun and personable the whole time. Some of the best Chardonnay I've ever had and we easily declared it a new favorite spot! Very casual ambiance but a hidden gem for sure! WILL DEFINITELY BE BACK!!!!

We came in for a tasting, but they were closing for the day. They gave us a complimentary tasting of their classic Chardonnay. It was delicious. They then recommended a tasting room that was still open that we went to and enjoyed very much. Very classy and down to earth. Will definitely try to make it back for an actual tasting.

Just stumbled upon this charming tasting room in downtown Sonoma today. Such a pleasant surprise! Zach more than took care of us. He was extremely passionate about Auteur wines and the winemaking process, as well as wine in general. He was such a pleasure to talk to and the wines absolutely blew my mind. Fantastic Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, all unique and intriguing. Will absolutely be recommending this to people looking for extremely high quality yet still affordable wines.

Such a cute set up and a pleasant surprise when we walked in! The tent also made us feel like VIP treatment. The winery is smaller than most and is set in a good size house. Social distancing is perfectly done with tables at a good distance from each other. The personalized tasting menu was a nice touch and made me feel extra special. I was also in awe of the wine glasses and wanted to purchase some of my own. Cory was informative, friendly, and personable. He didn't rush us at all while we took our time tasting each wine. The wine was sooo good, I ended up buying 3 bottles! I wasn't quite ready for the 6 bottle membership but definitely will consider for the future. This was probably my favorite winery from the weekend. It's the personalization and little details that made the experience different from all the rest! Can't wait to bring more people here for their first time.

Totally amazing how we stumbled upon this spot. We decided to have an escape to Napa during the last "lull" from COVID and it was phenomenal... however we apparently weren't the only ones thinking about this. Almost everywhere is appointments only and calling last minute we got really lucky to hit all the ones we wanted to hit. Here we didn't have an appointment but were told if we bought a bottle we could lounge in their lovely patio area... tempt me with a good time 3 please! 1 to enjoy and 2 to go... yes indeedy... it was a beautiful day and this is a great spot to wait for your local early dinner or lunch reservations to dine out (when allowed), which is what we were doing. The front porch/yard is very welcoming and beautifully decorated not too crowded and not too empty.. lucky enough to catch a couple with a really spiffy car as well. Good times guaranteed at this wine hot spot. Of course holiday seasons are upon us so stay safe, merry and bright. Enjoy the divinity Angie

Went to a tasting here over the weekend and it was fantastic! The wines are some of the best I've had and the service was great (shout out to Patrick). I'm excited to be the newest wine club member!

If you are planning your trip to Sonoma, or even if you live in the area and haven't been yet.. Auteur is a MUST! We booked a visit here for our annual anniversary trip to Wine Country and they did not disappoint. I booked a few weeks ahead of time as most places were still spacing out reservations due to social distancing protocol for the county - The team was so polite on the phone and asked if we were celebrating any special occasions {this will come into play later} and promptly made us a reservation for the date and time were preferred. Score! Just based on the reviews and the service while booking the tasting, I was so excited to give this place a go! Auteur is located on First Street West directly off of Sonoma Square {maybe 50 feet off the square to be exact] - Between complimentary parking on the square itself, street parking and a huge parking lot just a block over, you will not need to stress about where to park while enjoying your wine tasting afternoon. Upon arriving we were greeted immediately by a few of the team members and felt right at home. We were a few minutes early and we had a chance to take a look at all of the awards that Auteur has received and it made us even more excited to sit down for our tasting. When our tent {yes, a stunning tent all to ourselves} was ready, we were blown away by the gorgeous set up - A tablescape set up with flower, candles, and a personalized tasting menu welcoming us to Auteur - Let's talk about the detailing and how this made us feel so welcomed and like we weren't just a "random" guest. Enter Corey - He was friendly, personable and beyond knowledgable and passionate about the wines we were experiencing. He helped to make our experience here one of a kind and truly special. Ask for Corey! The wines themselves are absolutely delicious! I typically gravitate more towards a fuller bodied, creamy Chardonnay and boy oh boy, did Auteur deliver on the Chards! The 2019 Green Acres Chardonnay as well as the 2019 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay are at the top of my list - light and smooth {which my Husband prefers} but packed an amazing flavor {which is what I'm looking for}.. Best of both worlds! We also had a few tastings of their Pinot Noir - Oh my goodness, the 2019 Labyrinth Pinot will blow your mind and have you wanting more. I've said this before in previous reviews {for other wineries..yes, we are big wine guys} but before they could even mention the Wine Club, my Husband and I just gave each other a look like "it's not even a question, we are joining this wine club". And joined we did!** We mentioned that we were relocating to Southern CA soon after our trip and wanted to hold off on the first shipment until we were in our new place so they went ahead and scheduled the delivery for a time that worked best for us - Another tick on the A+ customer service! We have since received our first shipment and enjoyed the 2019 Green Acres with a beautiful dinner - And looking forward to trying each and every wine on the menu! The Wine Club allows you to allocate shipments in 12 or 6 bottles per shipment as well as customize those shipments - And... Complimentary wine tastings when you are in the area! Double score! Come for the wine..and join for the beyond describable wine.. but stay for the stellar service that you will receive from the team! Cheers y'all! ** Please don't ask how many wine clubs we belong to.

Damn, those were some delicious wines. You see, I don't know a ton about wine but having a buddy that does pays dividends in Sonoma. He's a local, he's in the wine industry, and he generally knows his s#it. So, when a guy like that takes you to a place like this, it's gotta be good, right? Spoiler alert: it is. Of all the places we tasted wine around or close to the town square, this was my favorite. With a pleasant little country home feel we sat in the "backyard" and were treated to some truly epic wines. Each came with a curated description but my big ol' nose was so far into the glass that I hardly heard a single word. Once again, damn delicious. Oh, we saw a pup or two out back, so if you're local, grab your mutt and pop a bottle... or three. Bring your wallet!

We discovered this place from SF Chronicle's "Top 25 Wineries to Try" article. I was relieved that I was able to secure a reservation for a weekday 2 days ahead. The sales rep Lili Harvey was pleasant to work with, and she took down all the guest names. On the day of our arrival, I had called ahead to let them know that my parents wouldn't be participating in the tasting and that we were running about 15 min behind. Angie was gracious and flexible about making the changes. Once we frantically found parking (there's a free public parking lot a block away) and scrambled our way there, we were warmly greeted by Angie. She led us into the backyard where the table was beautifully set up. The printed tasting menu even had our names on it! I love that personal touch! We got to try two different chardonnays side by side; the vieux chene did not age in new old while the other came from the same vineyard but had spent time in new oak. It was fascinating to see the difference. Angie also gave us an extra pour of a 2012 chardonnay which was delicious and mature in flavor. The last two tastings were side-by-side comparison of a pinot noir and Cabernet sauvignon. Both were complex and scrumptious for the lack of a better word. We ended up purchasing the pinot and the vieux chene chardonnay. Tastings were $50/person. One tasting fee would be waived if you purchased 3 bottles or joined membership; however two of the three clubs were already full. The waitlist would be 6-12 months, per Angie. I have forgotten how expensive Napa and Sonoma is. Nevertheless the tastings were lovely, and I appreciate the personalized and intimate experience.

My god these wines are delicious! I recently discovered Auteur back in August and decided to hit up the tasting room again last week to taste their current releases because they are making some of my favorite Chardonnays in California. Backed by some serious single vineyard contracts, a killer winemaker and a great tasting room experience, this place is an easy 5 stars. It's by appointment only so make sure to book in advance because they can only accommodate a few tastings a day given the size of the space. It's located in a house off the square and has a super laid back vibe where you can enjoy the wines in peace! Great wines, great price points and a must visit if you're looking for high end burgundies in California.

Came here for my birthday today. Michelle did an amazing job with the tasting and made the day extra special. Highly recommend.

This guy was such a prick and made me feel worthless all within the first 2 minutes. I found this place and wanted to check it out! I absolutely love wine tastings and was really looking forward to a relaxing time! I'm in town filming a show called "13 reasons why" and had some free time after a short day of filming. THANKFULLY I went somewhere else close by and they were very welcoming. Anyways.. Let me break it down... I walk in this tasting room and there's like 15 people all sitting down enjoying a tasting at a big table!! The gentlemen says "I'll be with you in one moment". so I go sit down in the other room to wait patiently. He then asks me in front of everyone if I made an appointment in a very condescending tone. He made me feel belittled for not knowing they were an *appointment only* winery. I left with my tail between my legs very embarrassed. How you treat people is very important, no matter who they are or what they do, and this Winery is not welcoming to outsiders. MAKE SURE TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT OR HE WILL CALL YOU OUT. Anyways. Thanks for reading. And enjoy yourself today! Stay hydrated. :) If you're looking for a nicer wine tasting experience.. come to "WALT wines" They're Very welcoming to all their guests!

So this winery is small. The tasting is done in downtown Sonoma. However, don't let that turn your nose up. This winery is amazing. Every wine is wonderful and the French inspired wine is surprisingly delicious. Ask for Angie! She made the tasting event a relaxing and knowledgeable experience.

Very good wines but since they make very little quantity it is a bit of a conundrum. It's join their club for a case or 2 cases a year, which I understand but rather be on a list where I can vary my choices and quantities. I think there are better values out there.

Wonderful Pinot Noir and a unique tasting with Bobbi. I loved tasting wines from the same vineyard year after year to pick up the subtle differences. Also appreciated tasting the same wine clones from 3 very different vineyards and micro climates all of the same vintage to taste the subtle differences soil and growing conditions impart in the wines. Highly recommend making a reservation for a tasting here if you are a serious Pinot Noir or non-buttery (no malic acid fermentation) Chardonnays!

This review is based on a recommendation: Our wine tasting your guide recommended Artuer. I yelped it only to find it doesn't exist yet- apparently it is appointment only.. And AMAZING. Someone try this place and review it!

One word- Bobbi! If you want a tasting that not only gives you bang for you buck but your host makes it even a better experience then you need to go here. Chards & Pinots reign and my husband, who hates Pinots, found one that blew him away. Don't miss out on this experience & delightful wine!

If you haven't met Bobbi, you haven't lived. Auteur and the story Bobbi tells us are as compelling as anything! You simply must try this tasting room.

Not impressed at all and the wines are mediocre at best. I was visiting a friend in the Bay Area and she was nice enough to take me to Sonoma wine tasting with another friend who happens to be in the wine business. They made reservations at Auteur we showed up on time, it was a big hard to find since the tasting room is in a house so it sort of throws you off if you don't know what you are looking for. The house is darling and very well decorated. A woman greeted us named Bobbie, she was well dressed but her first remark when I asked where the restroom was (after driving over an hour) was oooo you know that's not something you should ask when you walk into a tasting room. I was taken aback but blew it off (I really wanted to say well I don't really care because I have to pee) come to find out it's a red flag when tasting because people think you are already drunk due to drinking all day. For starters I wasn't slurring nor did I look drunk and we hadn't had a sip. I had a love hate with Bobbie, he stories were great but I felt like she was a know it all and snappy when we asked questions not to mention I felt like she was challenging our friend who works in the wine industry and clearly knows his stuff as well. Our friend was just having fun testing the wines and was so complimentary to Bobbie but any time he tried to explain something to me Bobbie seemed to be turned off and think his thoughts weren't correct. It was just bizarre. My wine friend was clearly a better sport than me because me and my friend were turned off but remained nice and our wine friend was just so damn sweet and let everything roll off. I don't know wine is a personal preference for sure and Bobbie does in fact have nice stories to tell but she clearly likes to be the center of attention and you can't say anything remotely negative or anything that compares Aureur to other wines or she will put you in your place which isn't the best idea when you're running a business. I don't recommend this place for their wines nor their tastings. It's pricey and not tasty.

We had a fabulous bachelorette party on their patio! Laura was so welcoming and warm and we stayed for hours with amazing wine! I loved the different versions of the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, I'm very excited to taste the Cabernet in 2020! What a lovely venue and wonderful wine!

A visit to Auteur is a experience not to be missed. Such a warm, inviting and informative afternoon! Kenneth and Laura Juhasz are so welcoming and knowledgeable. Sonoma is lucky to have such down to earth lovely people representing such a charming town. And best of all is their wines are exceptional. Thank you, what a treat not to be missed!

Had one of the most great experiences with Bobbie. I loved Bobbie's stories and would highly recommend this place if you're truly interested in tasting wine and not planning on doing some drunk fest. Delicious whites and pinots. You must reserve to do a tasting at this magnificent house. Btw, outside patio is beautiful. Thanks Bobbie, see you soon!

This was an beautiful personal setting with wonderful host and quality wine. I would recommend this to anyone with a group!

Wow! Very good wine, worth the stop for sure. Angie Cerretani is the best! Ask for her she is very fun and has a lot of information we were very lucky to have her! She made our tasting special!

Wonderful experience on their back patio tasting extraordinary Pinot's and Chardonnay. I highly recommend!

In my opinion, the best Pinot Noir in the valley. I will never forget my first glass of Labyrinth Pinot Noir ! I like the little house just off the square. If you go during the busy season you can park at depot park just a few yards north so its perfect.

Just finished the last bottle from the Fall 2016 delivery, and it was as fantastic as the rest. Was hard to hold out this long as we enjoyed half the case the first night at a dinner party we had at our house. Initially thought we'd introduce our friends to Auteur with one bottle, but 7 bottles later, it was that good. Kenneth and Laura do a fantastic job, and now we are out and can't wait for the next shipment to arrive at our home in Seattle. May have to make a special trip to Sonoma in the meantime....

Oh my god! Can't say enough about this wine tasting experience. I love the fact that it's appointment only. They were ready for me and treated me like a guest. Staff was knowledgeable and fun. I LOVED the Rose and the Pinots. It's in a cute heritage home right off the Sonoma Plaza. I'm a fan!

We have "tasted" wines at Auteur many, many times over the past 7 years! We can't help but come back for more of this phenomenal wine, and bring new friends along in order to share what we believe is some of the best wine in the Valley! The proprietors, Laura and Kenneth Juhasz, are truly the most warm, wonderful human beings in the wine industry! Kenneth is a MASTERFUL wine maker, and Laura is lovely, and talented in her own right. Between his Southern charm and her Midwestern charm, they keep us coming back for more - always gracious, always informative, always pouring lots of wine to taste, and always so much fun! Their chardonnays and Pinot Noirs are crazy good! The tasting room has evolved over the years and they now have an amazing back yard with the most gracious table for a big group to enjoy. And Bobbi...the Auteur tasting room hostess extraordinaire ...don't get us started! Bobbi is WONDERFUL!!! She is an amazing person, and she brings these awesome wines to life when she does a tasting with you! We have had some incredible tasting experiences with Bobbi at the helm - with big groups and small. She is generous with her pours, detailed in her descriptions, bubbly in her presentations, and we have actually made new friends many times as a result of Bobbi masterfully introducing different tasting groups to one another. My husband and I love the Auteur tasting experience; love Kenneth and Laura; love Bobbi; and love the Auteur wines! Visit! You will love it, too!