Hidden gem: Blue Victorian enchants Suisun Valley visitors

SUISUN VALLEY — If charm was a building, it would be the Blue Victorian Winery in Suisun Valley. It’s a knockout.

Nestled gently on Suisun Valley Road, as if some divine force positioned it just so, the century-old building beckons visitors to stop for a while and take it in.

“It truly is a hidden gem. In fact, just a few months ago, Cellerpass Destination gave us the designation of a Hidden Gem,” says Laura Cooke, vice president of operations of Vezer Family Vineyard, which owns the winery. “We always felt that way about ourselves, but it’s nice that others see it that way, too.”

Suisun Valley winemakers Frank and Liz Vezer purchased the Victorian in 2007. It began as a residence for a family that had it for three generations.

“They originally planned to renovate and sell it, but they wound up falling in love with the house and the grounds and decided to turn it into their own winery,” Cooke says.

It’s easy to understand the feelings of love.

The white porch conjures images of a slower, more peaceful time. The tasting bar is designed with warm woods and a cozy, well-appointed gathering area with tables and a fireplace. It’s perfect for sharing tasting notes while not feeling crowded around the bar.

Inside a small nearby room that comprises the front of the building, it’s easy to squint your eyes, mentally remove the parking lot and see that the view could have been nearly the same as when the first inhabitants lived there 100 years ago.

Upstairs is a private residence. Everyone wishes they lived there.

Cooke points out that Suisun Valley is the Petite Sirah Capital of the World.

“Our soil is very much like Napa’s but the weather here is different. We don’t get the early morning fog. Our area is bright, sunny and ready to go first thing in the morning. The fruit heats up sooner. Our Petite Sirah and Zinfandel grapes are thick-skinned and actually benefit from that. The results are deep, jammy, flavorful wines.”

Other grape varietals for tasting include Primativa and Sauvignon blanc. There are also special blends created by Vezer’s Jake Stuessy, the youngest winemaker in the region.

“Jake’s approach is entirely out of the box, and we are so proud of the premium wines he creates here,” Cooke says.

Several thousand visitors a year come to visit, propose, get married, celebrate anniversaries or just hang out and taste. There are 13 acres of vineyards surrounding the Blue Victorian and a 12,000-square-foot production facility in the back. Weddings and other special events most often take place in the winery’s barrel room.

“We offer couples and families a very special photo spot for those once-in-a-lifetime moments,” says Cooke. “Photographers are allowed to take photos on site free of charge, and that is something that not all wineries allow.”

The winery is host to events year-round that include classic car shows, black tie galas and an annual bridal fair, which will occur in March.

“We have live runway shows with bridal attire and regular fashions,” Cooke says. “We showcase local vendors who provide catering, flowers, music, honeymoon travel and jewelry. We are all about making sure everyone knows that you can get all you need for your wedding in this area.”

While old Victorians often hold their share of rumored ghosts, Cooke gives the winery the all-clear sign.

“I haven’t seen one yet,” she says. “The main things we’re haunted by are memories of happy experiences. We love to open our door, provide hospitality and welcome everyone just like family.”

The Blue Victorian is located at 5071 Suisun Valley Road in Suisun Valley. For more information, visit vezerfamilyvineyard.com or call 707-422-8025.