Aperture Cellars

Founded in 2009 by winemaker Jesse Katz, Aperture Cellars is a family venture that combines Jesse's winemaking expertise with his father Andy Katz's renowned photography, which features prominently in the winery's branding and aesthetics.

Jesse Katz established Aperture Cellars after gaining experience at esteemed wineries such as Pétrus in Bordeaux and Screaming Eagle in Napa Valley. His vision was to create Bordeaux-inspired wines that reflect Sonoma County's unique terroir. The winery has since gained critical acclaim, with Katz being recognised by a number of prominent critics and publications.

Situated minutes from downtown Healdsburg, Aperture Cellars' estate is surrounded by century-old vines first planted in 1912. The winery sources grapes from various esteemed vineyards across Sonoma County, including sites in Alexander Valley, Geyserville, Clarksburg, and Bennett Valley.

Aperture focuses on Bordeaux varietals, selecting vineyard sites with unique soil profiles to enhance the expression of each wine. Working with viticulturist Phil Freese, who has contributed to vineyards like Opus One, they oversee all farming aspects to ensure optimal grape quality.The winery emphasizes precise farming and cellar techniques, such as barrel fermenting and maintaining low fermentation temperatures to preserve freshness and enhance aromatics. This meticulous approach results in wines that balance new world fruit with old world elegance.

The winery emphasizes precise farming and cellar techniques, such as barrel fermenting and maintaining low fermentation temperatures to preserve freshness and enhance aromatics. This meticulous approach results in wines that balance new world fruit with old world elegance.

Aperture offers two main series: the Soil Series, featuring blends and single-origin wines crafted for specific soil types, and the Site Series, showcasing terroir-driven expressions from premier Sonoma County single vineyard sites. Their portfolio includes varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Chenin Blanc, consistently receiving high ratings from critics.

Guests can reserve outdoor terrace and private lounge tasting experiences by appointment. The hospitality space features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the estate vineyards and showcases Andy Katz's photography. Experiences include the Soil Series and Site Series tastings, each approximately 90 minutes, offering insights into their diverse wine portfolio.