The perfect combination of romance, family values, and rich European tradition inspired the dream of Paradise Ridge Winery, which graces a hillside over Santa Rosa, California. When Walter Byck married Marijke Hoenselaars in Holland forty-five years ago, little did they realize that together they would build a wine estate in the heart of America's finest grape growing region, Sonoma County.

Walter and Marijke moved to Santa Rosa in 1965 and realized they had found a haven to raise their growing family. In 1978, after more than a year of searching for a ranch where their five children could camp, hike and fish, Walter came home one night, rain dripping from his coat and said, "Marijke, children ... I have seen Paradise!" Thereafter, the 156 acres of land overlooking the Russian River Valley in Sonoma County, California became known as Paradise Ranch.

Their love of wine, combined with a growing alliance with the incredible region they now called home, encouraged Walter and Marijke to start their own vineyards. Within the first year of owning Paradise Ranch, Sauvignon Blanc had been planted. Chardonnay was planted from 1985 to 1986 making a total of seventeen acres of these Varietals. The outstanding quality of fruit that the vineyards produce inspired the Bycks to start their own winery.

After five years of careful planning, the dream of Paradise Ridge Winery became a reality. Opened in May of 1994, Paradise Ridge Winery has become a haven where locals and visitors alike come to savor the wonderful wines, bring their friends and take in the magnificent views. It's unique California design with expansive decks and a terra cotta terrace offers breathtaking views of the vineyards, the Russian River Valley and far beyond. The beautiful and serene atmosphere is the perfect setting for businesses to hold seminars and special events and for joyful brides and grooms to exchange their wedding vows.

In 1997 five more acres were planted on the estate to Zinfandel, Syrah and Petite Sirah.

After 14 years of making wines, Paradise Ridge Winery is happy to announce that a new state-of-the-art winemaking facility is completed. Situated on the estate it is as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside and is currently in full use for the 2003 harvest.

Guests are welcomed daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for sales & tasting (Jan-Mar open Friday through Monday). April through October, on Wednesday evenings, visitors are invited to "Wines and Sunsets" where they can bring a picnic and enjoy Paradise Ridge Wines while admiring the view as the sun sets over “Paradise.”

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