Beltane Ranch: A Historic Sonoma Landmark and Regenerative Oasis

Cultivating Quality, Sustainability, and Immersive Experiences for Over 140 Years

A Storied Past, A Vibrant Present

Beltane Ranch's origins trace back to the Pliocene era, when volcanic activity shaped the dynamic soils of Sonoma Valley. For millennia, this land was the ancestral home of the Wappo, Pomo, and Coastal Miwok peoples, who lived in harmony with the abundant natural resources. In 1837, the property became part of Rancho Los Guilicos, a Mexican land grant, before being purchased by pioneering California viticulturist John Drummond in 1878.

Drummond was a trailblazer, grafting old Mission grape vines to fine wine varieties like Cabernet and Chardonnay, and introducing Merlot to the state in 1883. He planted Beltane's first official vineyard in 1879, laying the groundwork for the ranch's winemaking legacy.

In 1892, the property was acquired by Mary Ellen Pleasant, a remarkable African American businesswoman, abolitionist, and civil rights advocate. Pleasant designed and built the graceful ranch house, drawing inspiration from her New Orleans heritage. She and her partner, Scottish banker Thomas Bell, operated Beltane as a vacation destination, hosting guests who could ride the train to "Beltane Station" on the property.

After Pleasant's passing in 1904, the ranch transitioned through various owners, including the Heins family, who began restoring the property in the 1960s. Rosemary Wood, the Heins' niece, opened the first guest rooms, laying the foundation for Beltane's evolution into a renowned wine country inn and agricultural preserve.

Regenerative Stewardship, Exceptional Wines

Today, Beltane Ranch is owned and operated by the fourth, fifth, and sixth generations of the Wood/Benward family. Committed to preserving the land's rich history and natural resources, they have embraced regenerative agriculture, using practices that improve soil health, encourage biodiversity, and sequester carbon.

Their 25-acre heritage estate vineyard, first planted in 1879, is meticulously tended by fifth-generation steward Alex Benward. Employing cover cropping, rotational grazing, and other regenerative techniques, the team cultivates exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, Carignan, Petite Sirah, and Alicante Bouschet grapes. Winemaker Kevin Holt then transforms these grapes into small-production, award-winning estate wines that capture the land's unique terroir.

Beyond the vineyards, Beltane Ranch's regenerative efforts extend to their organic produce gardens, olive orchards, and free-range poultry operations. Chickens provide natural pest control and fertilization, while a flock of "wooly weeder" sheep graze the vineyards, suppressing weeds and fire fuels. Bees pollinate the diverse habitats, producing honey that graces the table alongside the ranch's other bounty.

Immersive Experiences, Authentic Hospitality

Visitors to Beltane Ranch are invited to experience the property's rich history and sustainable stewardship firsthand. Guided 4x4 tours offer an intimate look at the regenerative farming practices, while private tastings and chef-prepared, wine-paired meals showcase the estate's exceptional wines and produce.

The historic six-room inn provides a tranquil home base for exploring the 105-acre agricultural preserve. Guests can wander the gardens and orchards, meet the resident animals, and relax in the shade of ancient oaks. Unique settings, from the restored 19th-century barn to the vineyard-view picnic spots, create unforgettable backdrops for events and celebrations.

As a sixth-generation family farm, Beltane Ranch is committed to preserving its legacy of quality, resourcefulness, and hands-on hospitality. By welcoming guests to experience the land's bounty and story, they invite you to become a part of their ongoing narrative – one rooted in sustainability, community, and a deep reverence for the natural world.