Sipping Creativity: Bella Union Winery’s Artist-In-Residence Program Bridges Wine and Art

The Bella Union winery in Napa Valley has successfully carved a niche for itself by launching its Artist in Residence and Salon Program, which has quickly become a highlight of the winery’s offerings. Opened in the autumn of 2024 amidst a challenging market for U.S. wine sales, Bella Union has seen over 10,000 visitors since its grand opening, thanks in part to its unique experiences and beautiful setting.

The winery, part of the House of Far Niente, offers eight different wine tasting experiences, appealing to a diverse range of visitors. From the casual $45 "Taste of Bella Tasting" to the more exclusive Bella Moments Proposal Package, the winery emphasizes flexibility to cater to guest preferences. The atmosphere is further enhanced by its outdoor patio, which offers stunning sunset views.

One standout feature of Bella Union is its quarterly Salon Series, where guests can meet the Artist in Residence. This program was initiated by Proprietress Beth Nickel to honor the contributions of Hispanic workers in winemaking. The inaugural artist, Harold Mendez, focuses on themes of place and identity through his mixed-media works, and he has integrated elements of the winemaking process into his art.

Mendez’s commissioned work, A Moment’s Notice, beautifully encapsulates the essence of the grape harvest. His fascination with the color and texture of wine lees led to the incorporation of this material in his largest piece, representing the local environment in a striking visual format.

During his residency, Mendez collaborated closely with Bella Union’s winemaker, honing his palate and deepening his appreciation for the craft of winemaking. Guests at the Salon have the opportunity to sample various Bella Union wines, including unique blends and renowned varietals.

Due to the program’s success, the winery is preparing for its next artist, Eduardo Sarabia, who will start in November 2025. Sarabia, known for his multidisciplinary art combining ceramics, textiles, and glass, will showcase his work at Bella Union, continuing the tradition of merging art with the fine wine experience.

For more information about the Bella Union winery and its offerings, visit Bella Union and view the Artist in Residence program.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!