Buena Vista's new wine tool museum goes high-tech

Nineteenth-century antiques are showcased in a high-tech, 21st-century way in a new Historic Wine Tool Museum at Sonoma’s Buena Vista Winery.

The collection of ancient French viticultural tools is theatrically displayed against the old stone walls of the historic winery’s Champagne Cellars. But that’s just the opening. When the lights go out, it’s show time. Visitors can watch a 20-minute multi-media show with light, sound and visuals, presenting the history of winemaking through its tools.

Buena Vista’s founder, the colorful Count Agoston Haraszthy, narrates the presentation. Sonoma actor George Webber, who has also brought Gen. Mariano Vallejo to life, plays the wine impresario in the film.

The collection of tools includes picks, plow blades and handcrafted barrel spigots, all considered state-of-the-art in the late 1800s vineyards of both France and California.

A special permit from the French government was required to bring the tools to the U.S.

Tours of the new museum are combined with tasting of exclusive, current-release wines and a tour of Buena Vista, the oldest commercial winery in California, founded in 1857.

Cost is $25 for tours and tasting, but families may visit the museum only for $10 per person and free admission for kids. The winery is at 18000 Old Winery Road. For information, call 800-926-1266 or visit buenavistawinery.com.