Inside Abbot's Passage: A Conversation with Katie Bundschu
Discover the vision, passion and dedication behind one of Sonoma's most unique wineries.
"The beauty of winemaking is that you only get one shot at it. Each vintage is a new opportunity, and you have to work with what nature gives you. It’s like starting a new season each year, and that makes it special." – Katie Bundschu, 6th Generation Winemaker & Founder of Abbot’s Passage
Katie, what made you want to create Abbot's Passage Winery?
It started with a desire to offer something that was not as traditional here at Abbot's Passage, something that complemented the wines we already make, but also something a little bit different that could pique the interest of new people. I wanted to play around with lesser-known varietals like Grenache and Syrah, giving people access to something they might not find elsewhere.
How does your winery reflect your family's winemaking legacy?
I come from six generations of winemakers, and Abbot's Passage is a way for me to continue that legacy while also carving out something unique. We work with smaller, more diverse varietals that are still true to the values of my family’s winemaking tradition: quality, craftsmanship and sustainability.
What's a wine that stands out to you from Abbot's Passage?
The Cremant Rosé, which is the first sparkling wine my family has ever produced. It’s named after my great-grandmother, Sadie, who was a huge influence on my family’s legacy in winemaking. It holds a special place in my heart, and I’m proud to share it with our customers.
Bee’s Knees Recipe
Perfectly paired with our stemware and a refreshing drink to complement your Abbot's Passage wine experience!
Ingredients:
1.5 Tbsp of J.T. Cooper Brand Bee’s Knees syrup
1 cup lemonade
½ cup sparkling water
Directions:
1. In a glass, combine the Bee’s Knees syrup, lemonade, and sparkling water.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Add ice, and garnish with a lemon slice, lavender, or a dried flower to elevate the drink’s presentation.
4. Serve with a fun straw, and enjoy!
About Katie Bundschu
Katie Bundschu is a 6th-generation winemaker and the visionary behind Abbot's Passage Winery. Her passion for blending tradition with innovation drives the success of her winery, where she crafts wines that highlight lesser-known varietals. With a deep respect for Sonoma's winemaking history, Katie continues to push the boundaries, creating a unique experience for wine enthusiasts.
Discover more about Abbot's Passage and Katie: