Planning commission approves variances, design review and CUP amendment for Fortunate Sun winery restoration

The St. Helena Planning Commission on Feb. 18, 2025 approved a package of entitlements allowing renovation of an 1860s residence and construction of new winery support buildings at the Fortunate Sun winery, 825 Fulton Lane. The commission granted two variances (a 30‑foot barrel storage barn height and additional habitable‑space in accessory structures), approved a major design review permit and amended the site’s conditional use permit to authorize one additional full‑time and one part‑time winery employee.

The project is intended to restore a historic residence and tank house, renovate and add to the existing winery building, and build a new barrel barn, equipment storage barn, mechanical building and trash enclosure on a 14.47‑acre parcel in the A20 agricultural zoning district and the city’s historic preservation overlay. Applicant Landon Patterson, CEO of Double V Properties and Fortunate Sun winery, told the commission the plan aims to “restore and repair the current property, but to revitalize the estate and guarantee that its historic agriculture and architectural legacy continues for a hundred and 50 more years.”

City staff recommended approval with conditions. Planning staff, represented at the hearing by Linda Roofing of North Coast Community Planning, told commissioners that no increase in wine production, tasting‑room visitors or special events is requested, and that CEQA exemptions apply (CEQA Guidelines §§15301, 15303 and 15311 for small additions, small new structures…