Arista Winery Bids Farewell: A Fond Goodbye to a Wine Legend

Arista Winery, known for its excellence in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, is set to close its doors after facing difficult decisions from the founding McWilliams family. This follows the sale of their 36-acre estate and winery in 2025, indicating a significant shift for the beloved Russian River Valley establishment.

Mark McWilliams, who co-managed the winery with his brother, Ben, expressed that the family initially preferred to keep the closure low-profile. They have been surprised by the outpouring of support from customers and the community. “We weren’t trying to make a story,” he remarked, emphasizing that their decision was purely personal.

A Legacy of Quality

Founded in 2002 by Al and Janis McWilliams, Arista quickly garnered a reputation for producing exceptional wines. The first commercial release was in 2003, and by 2012, Mark and Ben had taken over daily operations, refining the winery’s focus on small-lot productions. They built a state-of-the-art facility and planted a significant portion of their estate with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines, producing notable wines that resonated in the industry.

With winemaker Matt Courtney joining in 2013, the winery reached new heights, becoming known for its high-quality, single-vineyard wines. However, the McWilliams brothers began contemplating their future five years ago, when their parents expressed a desire to downsize as they approached retirement age.

Navigating Challenges

In February 2025, they sold the property to Chris Underwood, CEO of Young’s Holdings, allowing Arista to continue production without the burden of property management. Initially, the brothers planned to sustain the brand with a new approach, but soon realized that it would require significant rebranding efforts, which posed unforeseen challenges in a tough wine market.

The decision to step back from Arista was ultimately influenced by their other business pursuits in commercial real estate, which spans several states. This left the brothers at a crossroads, balancing their passion for winemaking against practical considerations for their future.

A Heartfelt Farewell

While the brothers prepare to launch their 2023 vintage, they confirm that their 2024 release will be the final offering. They intend to celebrate this last chapter with customers, emphasizing a positive farewell rather than a melancholic goodbye. They hope to honor the legacy built over the past 30 years, recognizing the joy of their journey while accepting the change.

Mark McWilliams conveyed gratitude for the community’s support and acknowledged the contributions of their winemaking team, particularly Courtney and assistant winemaker Gordon Miller. Courtney will continue to develop his own wine brand and work as a consulting winemaker.

This decision, while difficult, was made with peace and thanks for their shared experiences. The McWilliams brothers view it as the right choice at the right time, favoring family priorities over business. As they close this chapter, they carry forward cherished memories and a deep appreciation for their time in the industry.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

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