As project manager and architect with Walker & Moody Architects, Joel Baumgardner facilitated the transition of the design from a simple “barn to make wine” into a top of the line, state of the art Napa Valley winery, including facilities for wine making, aging, tasting and dinner event facilities.  Built within prime cabernet vineyards in Rutherford, CA the 18,000 sf project sistered with owner’s existing artisan olive oil and vinegar facility across the street.

The wine making facilities included a covered crush pad, new refrigeration systems, fermentation tanks, a laboratory, barrel chai for red and a separate space for white wine barrels.   A commercial farm to table kitchen uses estate grown produce to create wine and food pairings for tastings and dinners.  The voluminous tasting room sits above the barrel chai with views down from above through glass.  A VIP tasting room is a jewel box experience.  Dramatic views draw the eye outward from with the heavy timber structure.  The expansive upper deck overlooks the vineyards offering striking views up and down the Napa Valley.