Williams Selyem Winery
Exclusive Sonoma winery renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir, offering intimate, appointment-only tastings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Williams Selyem Winery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Exclusive Sonoma winery renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir, offering intimate, appointment-only tastings.
"Impeccable wines and a beautiful approach to the tasting room make this a must-visit."
🎯 Join the Mailing List
Securing a tasting appointment often requires being on their mailing list. Plan ahead to get on it!
🍷 Focus on Pinot Noir
Williams Selyem is celebrated for its Pinot Noir. Embrace the tasting experience centered around this varietal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir
Tasting Room
Savor the signature Pinot Noir from their own Estate Vineyard, a true taste of Sonoma's terroir.
Barrel Tasting Experience
Tasting Room
Experience the magic of tasting wine directly from the barrel, a unique and memorable part of the visit.
Historic Russian River Valley Roots
Winery Grounds
Learn about the pioneering spirit of Burt Williams and Ed Selyem, who set a standard for American Pinot Noir.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Appointment is Key
Focus on Pinot Noir
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Join the Mailing List
Securing a tasting appointment often requires being on their mailing list. Plan ahead to get on it!
🍷 Focus on Pinot Noir
Williams Selyem is celebrated for its Pinot Noir. Embrace the tasting experience centered around this varietal.
💰 Tip Your Host
While there might not be a visible tip line, consider bringing cash to tip your knowledgeable wine educators.
🚗 Plan Your Transportation
Healdsburg can be spread out. Ensure you have a designated driver or arrange for transportation.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Join the Mailing List
Securing a tasting appointment often requires being on their mailing list. Plan ahead to get on it!
🍷 Focus on Pinot Noir
Williams Selyem is celebrated for its Pinot Noir. Embrace the tasting experience centered around this varietal.
💰 Tip Your Host
While there might not be a visible tip line, consider bringing cash to tip your knowledgeable wine educators.
🚗 Plan Your Transportation
Healdsburg can be spread out. Ensure you have a designated driver or arrange for transportation.
🧀 Consider Food Pairings
Some tastings may include cheese, chocolate, or bread. Enhance your experience with these delightful additions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Williams Selyem for its impeccable wines, particularly the elegant and complex Pinot Noirs, and the beautiful winery setting. The knowledgeable and passionate hosts contribute to a highly personalized and memorable tasting experience. However, some guests note the exclusivity of the mailing list requirement and a lack of a tip line for staff, which can detract from an otherwise stellar visit.
"A wonderful experience. The winery itself is gorgeous, the wines were all top-notch and our host Greg could not have been more hospitable. This is a must-visit winery if you are in the area (and can book an appointment -- usually only available to active list members)."
Christopher Grau
"I took my sister for her first wine tasting here. Our host Sierra was extremely knowledgeable and professional. As an industry member, I had a lot of detailed questions and Sierra responded to each one. Her passion for wine is clear and she doesn't leave work at work - she's currently taking a high level wine exam to prove her mastery (the fourth and final level).
The wine was -simply put- delicious. It was also complex and smooth and showcases a style that is both European and Californian. Elegant, not extracted. Flavorful, not big. This is great wine. And the space isn't too bad either 😜
Let's hope the owners have enough respect for the wine and the people involved to keep it going. Wine is only business to some, and that's what kills the soul of any company. As an industry member, my heart broke for Sierra. No tip line? It was a good thing I had cash. It hurts to see wine educators like her suffer because their owners/bosses will not acknowledge their needs. In a nutshell, the hospitality/service industry abuses people. (And full disclosure, I'm speaking from experience). We don't make a living wage and yet we have to put on a happy face and try to keep our hearts open to do what we love: make folks feel at home and give them a great experience. We hope they understand the abuse and tip us.
Go enjoy these wines. Go vote for local, non- corporate wineries with your time and money. And don't forget to tip.
Three stars instead of five for the lack of a tip line"
Laura Patterson
"A beautiful approach to the tasting room and then to see the property perched at the top of the drive was spectacular! We got a great history on Williams Selyem from Randy, our host for the day. He was terrific and had recommendations for other wineries to try. Of course the tasting room itself was very modern and airy. We tasted wine that is not usually on the allocation list and they were also terrific. Very much enjoyed our tasting and would love to go again some time."
Millie Kwan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Williams Selyem Winery is located in Healdsburg, California. It's best accessed by car. If you're coming from further afield, consider flying into Sonoma County Airport (STS) or San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and renting a car. Many visitors combine a visit with other wineries in the Russian River Valley.
Yes, parking is available at the winery. However, as it's a popular destination, especially for those on the mailing list, arriving on time for your appointment is recommended.
While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, availability can be spotty, especially for pickups. It's advisable to pre-arrange transportation or have a backup plan if relying solely on ride-sharing.
For visiting multiple wineries like Williams Selyem, consider hiring a private driver or joining a small group tour. This allows you to enjoy tastings without worrying about driving.
Yes, Healdsburg offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts like Montage Healdsburg to charming inns. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely. Williams Selyem is an appointment-only winery, primarily serving guests on their mailing list. It's essential to book your tasting well in advance.
You can typically join the mailing list through the Williams Selyem website. Be aware that it can take time to get off the waitlist and secure an appointment.
Tasting fees can vary and are often subject to change. It's best to check the winery's official website or contact them directly for the most current pricing information for their tasting experiences.
Tasting hours are typically by appointment. It's crucial to confirm your specific appointment time when booking. Standard tasting room hours usually fall within daytime business hours.
Yes, you can purchase wine directly from the winery, especially if you are on their mailing list and have access to allocations. Some wines may also be available for purchase during your tasting.
🎫 🍷 Onsite Experience
Williams Selyem offers an educational and intimate tasting experience, often focusing on their acclaimed Pinot Noir. You might have the opportunity to taste wines not typically available on the allocation list.
Yes, barrel tasting is a highlight for many visitors, offering a unique glimpse into the winemaking process and the development of future vintages.
While not a full restaurant, some tastings may include curated pairings like cheese, chocolate, or bread to complement the wines.
Tastings are usually around 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time for discussion with your host and to savor the wines.
The winery aims to be accessible. It's recommended to contact them in advance to discuss any specific accessibility needs you may have.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially to capture the beautiful scenery and your tasting experience. However, always be mindful of other guests and the winery's staff.
The winery grounds offer picturesque views, especially the approach to the tasting room and the property perched at the top of the drive. The modern and airy tasting room itself also makes for great shots.
Yes, you can take photos during your tasting, but it's polite to do so discreetly and without disrupting the experience for others or your host.
Wineries often have policies against drone usage to ensure guest safety and privacy. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Capture the elegant wine bottles, the scenic vineyard views, the modern architecture, and candid moments with your tasting companions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If visiting with family, consider arranging for childcare or focusing on wineries that explicitly welcome children. Alternatively, one adult could enjoy the tasting while the other explores nearby family-friendly attractions in Healdsburg.
💰 Budget Travelers
For a more budget-conscious wine experience in Sonoma, explore wineries that offer more accessible tasting fees or focus on regions with a wider range of price points. Researching wineries with picnic areas can also help save on dining costs.
🥂 Couples & Wine Enthusiasts
Booking an appointment is essential for a memorable visit. Consider a mid-morning tasting to enjoy the serene surroundings and engage deeply with the wines and your host. The opportunity for barrel tastings adds an extra layer of exclusivity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Williams Selyem
+1Their dedication to quality and personal connection with customers quickly set them apart. Over the years, they transitioned to focusing on Pinot Noir, a grape that would become synonymous with their name. Their success and the exceptional quality of their wines have inspired countless other winemakers and helped put Sonoma County, particularly the Russian River Valley, on the global wine map.
+1Today, the winery continues this legacy, producing highly sought-after Pinot Noirs that are celebrated for their elegance, complexity, and balance. The commitment to personal service and crafting world-class wines remains at the heart of the Williams Selyem experience.
Understanding the Williams Selyem Tasting Experience
The tasting itself is an educational journey, with a strong emphasis on their renowned Pinot Noirs. Expect to explore various vineyard designations and vintages, gaining insights into the terroir and winemaking philosophy. Some visitors have the unique opportunity to taste directly from the barrel, offering a rare glimpse into the wine's evolution.
Beyond the wine, the hospitality is a key component. Hosts are knowledgeable and passionate, eager to share the winery's history and the intricacies of each wine. While food pairings like cheese and charcuterie might be offered, the focus remains squarely on the exceptional wines.
The Art of Pinot Noir at Williams Selyem
The winery sources fruit from a select group of vineyards, many of which are located in the renowned Russian River Valley. Each vineyard, such as Bucher, Ferrington, and Rochioli, contributes its distinct personality to the final wine. This meticulous vineyard selection and management are crucial to producing Pinot Noirs that are both expressive and balanced.
Visitors often describe the wines as having a European sensibility with a Californian vibrancy – flavorful yet not overly extracted, elegant rather than big. This distinctive style has cemented Williams Selyem's reputation as a benchmark for American Pinot Noir, making their wines highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
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