The drive up winding Spring Mountain Road above St. Helena to Charbay Winery & Distillery is the first hint to visitors that they’re in for a real treat.

They arrive at the family-run winery and distillery ready to taste many intriguing offerings made by the owner, Miles Karakasevic, and his son, Marko, who are carrying on a 13-generation heritage of artisan winemaking and distilling.

Miles learned his craft in Europe and started Charbay with his wife Susan in 1983. They raised their children on Spring Mountain as they practiced their artisan traditions. Marko is credited with igniting the artisan flavored vodka movement. Since then, they’ve added rum, whiskey, and tequila—to shake up the spirits world. They know their craft and they keep their customers waiting for what’s next.

Today, up on Spring Mountain, visitors get to sample a side of Charbay that is lesser known. Here the focus is entirely on their stylish, unique wines—no spirits are served in the tasting room, due to California state law. Beyond elegant Cabernets, there are luscious Ports made from the family’s own Brandy (distilled right there on the property in the family’s Alembic Pot Still), and that’s only the beginning.

Guests delight in discovering imaginative releases like the Green Tea Aperitif, a sophisticated, ready-to-drink wine-based cocktail that’s great over ice; and Pomegranate Dessert Wine, made from tree-ripened California pomegranates.

They can even purchase a bottle of Charbay’s first brandy, the 1983 Folle Blanche Brandy No. 83, that was just released after nearly 30 years of anticipation. It really doesn’t take long for guests to realize that they have happened upon a real treasure: the refreshing continuum of a family’s artisan trade.

Charbay is a simple operation that exudes a warm, European feel. It’s a place to settle back, enjoy the wines and aperitifs, learn about distilling, and become fast friends with the Karakasevic family. The woodsy surroundings call out for a picnic and many savvy wine tourers do just that—as they relish the many joys of Charbay.

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