Born and raised in Healdsburg, California, Anthony Austin is a fourth generation Sonoma County native, studied enology at the University of California Davis and continued his studies under the legendary winemaker Andre Tchelistcheff.
Serving as a consultant to Brooks Firestone on a project in the Santa Ynez Valley, Tchelistcheff suggested the talented young Austin as the winemaker for Firestone’s new winery. In 1974, Anthony became the first winemaker at Firestone Vineyards in Santa Barbara. During the ensuing 10 years as winemaker he elevated Firestone Vineyards and Santa Barbara region to new heights.
Longing to focus his talents on Pinot Noir, while still continuing to serve as a consultant to Firestone, Anthony started his own winery, Austin Cellars, which won international acclaim for its wines and remain highly sought-after collectibles. In 2001 Anthony was drawn back to Sonoma County and the cold-climate challenges of the Sonoma Coast. Shortly after his return, Anthony met John and Barbara Drady and joined their efforts in launching the Sonoma Coast Vineyards project.
Are you planning to visit Sonoma wine country soon? Don’t forget your wine totes for traveling safely with wine!