Chateau St. Jean’s story began in 1973, when its three founders set out to create a winery that would capture the unique qualities of Sonoma’s vineyards.
The estate vineyard in Kenwood.
The name, inspired by Jean Sheffield, reflects her role as the heart of their circle—wife, sister, and sister-in-law to the three founders—and the only person who could keep them united with her “saintly” patience. Over the years, Chateau St. Jean has remained rooted in the spirit of community, warmth, and hospitality. Here, wine is more than a product; it’s a celebration of the good things in life, a testament to Sonoma’s character, and an invitation to gather and enjoy.
With the recent announcement of a new winemaker, this iconic winery is set to embark on a dynamic new era, building on its tradition of producing wines that capture the true spirit of Sonoma’s varied terroir.
Scott and Marta Rich of Talisman Wines have been on a remarkable journey since founding their winery in Sonoma in 1993.
Marta & Scott Rich.
Over 30 years later, they remain as passionate and hands-on as ever, crafting exceptional Pinot Noir while exploring new horizons with Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, and even Nebbiolo. Their dedication to capturing the essence of single-vineyard sites has made Talisman a standout for wine lovers seeking depth, complexity, and authenticity.
Unless you’re a resident of Washington state or a serious fan of Washington wine, there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of Woodinville. Located just a 20 minute drive north of Seattle, it’s a small suburb that is home to more than 130 wineries and tasting rooms featuring wines made in the Walla Walla, Columbia, and Yakima Valleys. Here’s a glimpse of a few of our favourite places to sip and taste in Woodinville featuring: Avennia Wine, Lauren Ashton Cellars, Orr Wines, Delille Cellars, the Herbfarm, the Barking Frog, Brian Carter Cellars Long Shadows, McQueen Champagne Bar, Maryhill Winery, and Chateau Ste. Michelle:
We first met Erica Orr in 2018 while doing a story on Washington’s Baer Winery located in Woodinville’s warehouse district. She was (and still is) their consulting winemaker and has also consulted for Mark Ryan Winery, Sparkman Cellars, and Guardian Cellars. At the time, she was producing one wine under her own label which was a Chenin Blanc. We tasted the 2017 together with several Baer Wines and the entire lineup was terrific. Her Chenin was a particular standout being such a rare variety found in Washington, and the quality with every one of the wines we tasted was indisputable. We knew immediately that she was a winemaker to watch.
Our first visit with Résonance Wines took place in 2019. It was a fantastic visit and we vowed that we would go back every year. Well, pandemics have a way of changing plans on you. But finally being able to return after 3 years, we were very well-rewarded for our wait. Résonance is going from strength to strength and is asserting itself as making some of the best wines in the Willamette Valley as well as having one of the best tasting rooms to visit.
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