Tank Garage Winery

Tank Garage Winery, located in Calistoga, Napa Valley, is not your typical winery. Situated in a repurposed 1930s gas station, this boutique winery delivers a unique blend of vintage nostalgia and contemporary winemaking. Established in 2014, Tank Garage Winery set out to create a place where classic Americana meets modern winemaking innovation. The experience is infused with a rebellious spirit, embracing the unconventional and celebrating the nonconformists​.

The Winemaking Philosophy The winery prides itself on its experimental approach to winemaking. Led by winemaker Bertus Van Zyl, Tank Garage Winery pushes the boundaries by exploring a variety of fermentation techniques and blends that challenge traditional norms. The winery sources grapes from diverse regions across California, from Mendocino to Santa Barbara, ensuring a rich tapestry of flavors in each bottle. The team experiments with methods such as foot-stomping, carbonic maceration, and the use of unconventional vessels like cacciopesto for aging, which allows them to produce unique, one-of-a-kind wines that are never repeated​.

Wines and Offerings Tank Garage Winery offers an eclectic selection of small-lot wines that cater to a wide range of tastes. Their portfolio includes red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines, with notable offerings such as “Darling Don’t Cry,” a rich red blend, and “Hella Fizz,” a vibrant pét-nat sparkling wine. Each wine is crafted with a specific vision, often featuring creative labels that add to the winery’s distinctive character. The winery’s approach to wine production emphasizes creativity and individuality, ensuring that no two vintages are ever the same​​.

Visiting the Winery A visit to Tank Garage Winery is like stepping back in time while embarking on a contemporary wine journey. The tasting room is a celebration of retro charm, featuring vintage decor, classic cars, and rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia. The friendly staff enhances the experience with engaging stories and a deep knowledge of wine. Visitors can expect a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere that invites them to explore and enjoy the diverse flavors crafted by the winery. The space is not only a tasting room but also a cultural hub where guests can partake in events, enjoy music, and immerse themselves in the winery’s unique vibe​​.

Community and Sustainability Tank Garage Winery is committed to sustainable practices and community engagement. The winery partners with like-minded growers who promote sustainable farming, ensuring that their wines are produced with respect for the land. The team is dedicated to making a positive impact, both environmentally and socially, through various initiatives that support local causes and the broader community​.

The Team The heart of Tank Garage Winery is its passionate and diverse team, each bringing a unique perspective and a shared love for wine. From winemaker Bertus Van Zyl, who thrives on experimentation and creativity, to the enthusiastic service crew, each member contributes to the dynamic and welcoming atmosphere that defines the Tank experience. The team’s dedication to quality and innovation is evident in every aspect of the winery, from the meticulous winemaking process to the engaging and fun tasting room environment​.