Michel-Schlumberger

Cover: Michel-Schlumberger winery, Sonoma Country, California
Photo: Greg K. Hull, Cool Adventures © Chasing Light Media
Article by Kim Hull

A gently winding road heads through rolling hills and vineyards to the spot where Jean-Jacques Michel first planted vines to establish his winery in 1971.

Michel-Schlumberger winery, Sonoma Country, California
Photo: Greg K. Hull, Cool Adventures © Chasing Light Media

On the west edge of the Dry Creek Valley, the area has both the cool climate conditions and the gravely soil to produce premium Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Chardonnay grapes.

Michel-Schlumberger winery, Sonoma Country, California
Photo: Greg K. Hull, Cool Adventures © Chasing Light Media

In 1991, Jacques Pierre Schlumberger joined Michel and the Michel-Schlumberger brand was formed. Since that time, the Michel-Schlumberger Benchland Estate has gained worldwide recognition for their Bordeaux-style wines.

Michel-Schlumberger wineryPhoto: Greg K. Hull, Cool Adventures © Chasing Light Media

Michel-Schlumberger is a beautiful estate influenced by both the European backgrounds of Michel and Schlumberger and the architectural heritage of California missions.

Michel Schlumberger Photo: Kim Hull, Cool Adventures © Chasing Light Media

From the reflecting pool to the overflowing baskets of flowers, to the inviting chairs found throughout the winery, Michel-Schlumberger offers a tasting experience that exudes a welcoming warmth.

Michel Schlumberger winery Photo: Greg K. Hull, Cool Adventures © Chasing Light Media

With one of the few tastings where guests find a quiet area to sit and enjoy the wines, Michel-Schlumberger offers one of the most relaxing guest experiences in all of Sonoma and Napa.

Michel-Schlumberger winery, Sonoma Country, California
Photo: Kim Hull, Cool Adventures © Chasing Light Media

On our visit, tasting room manager Ryan Leonhardt circulated from table to table, pouring wines for guests, taking the time to explain each wine, and then allowing them to experience the wines at their leisure.

In addition to both a classic and a reserve tasting, Michel-Schlumberger offers five-course food and wine pairings on select days of the week and a daily vineyard tour and tasting option.

Getting to Michel-Schlumberger

Michel-Schlumberger is located about 10 minutes west of downtown Healdsburg.

4155 Wine Creek Rd
Healdsburg, CA 95448
707-433-7427

Disclaimer: The content & opinions expressed are entirely our own. We received no compensation for this article. Reviews are opinion only and Chasing Light Media accepts no responsibility for how the information is used.