Ledson Castle in Sonoma Valley

When the Ledson family started construction in 1989, they had envisioned an ideal property for a future residence. They planted 17 acres of Merlot and began to build the house. As the months passed, the turrets, slate roofs, balconies and fountains took shape and passersby started to take notice, some going so far as to climb the fences to get a better look.

Seeing the enormous potential beyond a family home, the Ledson’s realized that it was time to rethink the plan. Given an intense public interest in the magnificent structure being built and the quality of the Merlot harvested from the estate vineyard – which had been sold to nearby wineries – they decided to turn what was intended as a family home into a winery and tasting room.

In 1997 the family released their first wine, the 1994 Ledson Estate Merlot and in 1999 after two years of reconstruction, the winery opened its doors to the public.

An instant landmark, Ledson Winery, known as “The Castle” around the globe, is an architectural showpiece. The 16,000 square foot French Normandy structure was designed entirely by Steve Ledson and features sweeping staircases, marble fireplaces, cathedral-style windows, coffered ceilings, several tasting bars, and over five miles of ornate wood inlays and mosaics, which were hand-cut and installed by Steve’s son, Mike.

The Castle provides a stunning setting for wine tasting weekends, romantic getaways and executive retreats.

The Ledson Winery tasting rooms and marketplace are open daily, 10 am to 5 pm. We  encourage you to treat yourself to a private tasting.

Check out the 3D Virtual Tour of the Castle.