best winery cave tours in sonoma

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9 Underground Wine Caves Open for Tastings in Napa + Sonoma

In wine country, a cave is more than a cave: it's a magical place where wine quietly chills out to age gracefully..

Despite the ubiquity of world-class wine producers in Napa and Sonoma, wine caves—especially those that can be visited by the tasting public—are relatively few and far between. Head underground for a unique look at behind-the-scenes wine production and a taste from a classically aged barrel at these wineries (one of them even has a waterfall!).

Pine Ridge Vineyards

The centerpiece of Pine Ridge Vineyards' network of hillside caves is Cellar 47, an elegant tasting venue decorated with soft lighting and inviting furnishings. In their 90-minute experience, wine educators take guests underground for a tasting of five estate cabernet sauvignons—including the Pine Ridge Vineyards flagship wine, Fortis—in one of Napa Valley's best cave tours ($95/person or $76/members, reservations required). // 5901 Silverado Trail (Napa), pineridgevineyards.com

Schramsberg Vineyards

If you're considering popping the question to your S.O., a candlelit sparkling wine tasting in the historic, 125-year-old caves at Schramsberg, in the rolling hills above Calistoga, would be a golden opportunity. Here you'll learn the winery's Old World ways of producing bubbly in the methode champenoise, and may even be invited to try your hand at riddling the aging bottles. Tours are limited to just four guests, guaranteeing that each tasting is a perfectly intimate experience—go for the all sparkling experience ($60/person) or team three sparklers with three red wines from Davies Vineyards wines ($70/person). Don't miss out on the lesser known, toastier (and more expensive) J. Schram sparklers. Reservations are a must. // 1400 Schramsberg Rd. (Calistoga), schramsberg.com

Jarvis Estate

If there were an award for most spectacular wine cave, Jarvis Estate would be hard to beat. The 45,000 square foot cave, dug in a curved parabola shape, is accented with cast bronze doors and wall sconces, arched alcoves, and fiber optic chandeliers. In the center, a natural underground water source has been harnessed into a cascading waterfall and stream. Following a tour of the underground operation, guests are seated in the tasting chamber to sample six of Jarvis' estate and reserve wines. Reservations ($150/person and $175/person for groups of 12+) are required. // 2970 Monticello Rd (Napa), jarviswines.com

Vine Cliff Winery

Vine Cliff has more than one tasting room in Napa County, but it's only at their historic estate on Silverado Trail where you'll get to travel underground to taste wines like the 2018 Oakville Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, a combination of plum and vanilla with scents of black cherry, licorice, violets, and crushed lavender. In Vine Cliff's 90-minute Legacy Estate Wasting Experience, guests tour the 100-acre property where winemaking began in the 1870 and the 15,000 square foot wine caves before tasting what's on offer along with a pairing of artisan cheeses ($85/person, reservations required). // 7400 Silverado Trail (Napa), vinecliff.com

Thomas George Estates

A little over a decade ago, Russian River Valley wine pioneer Davis Bynum converted a hop kiln from the 1920s into a state-of-the-art wine making facility. In 2010, an 8,000 square foot wine cave was added as a barrel-aging and tasting/event space. In their luxurious Single Vineyard Tasting, guests get a taste of six wines such as the savory and classic 2016 Pinot Noir Baker Ridge Estate. The experience ends at the tasting table for an intimate underground pizza pairing ($60/person, reservations required. // 8075 Westside Rd (Healdsburg), thomasgeorgeestates.com

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

Gundlach Bundschu was making wine for a century before they added their French-inspired wine caves in the 1990s. Guests may choose between the Vineyard & Cave walking tour ($75/person) or the Pinzgauer excursion ($105/person) in a cool Swiss Army transport vehicle that will take you through the historic vineyards. You'll sample five to seven estate wines on the Rhinefarm Experience, including the Vintage Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon along with seasonal snacks ($50/person). If the process of winemaking interests you as much as its taste, opt for the walking tour that runs 11am to 2pm daily ($65/person, plus 18 percent gratuity). // Reservations are required; 2000 Denmark St (Sonoma), gunbun.com

Enter the 7,000 square foot cave beneath Bella's historic Lily Hill vineyards for a tasting of wines like the crisp and refreshing 2020 Ru's Farm Sauvignon Blanc Growler, Fridays through Sundays ($30/person). Go a little more in depth with a private lawn tasting ($30), which guides guests through both the vineyards and caves and offers tastings among the aging barrels. // 9711 W Dry Creek Rd (Healdsburg), bellawinery.com

Benziger Family Winery

Benziger is a two-time winner of Wine Enthusiast 's people's choice award for the best winery tour—and the people were not wrong. In the Tribute Estate Tour and Tasting ($75/person), guests get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the estate's biodynamically farmed vineyards, winery and wine caves. The tour ends with a seated tasting of wines in a semi-private underground room. Walk-ins are welcome in the tasting room (10am to 5pm Monday through Thursday) and dogs can join too (just make sure to bring a leash) // 1883 London Ranch Rd (Glen Ellen), benziger.com

Del Dotto Winery

Del Dotto has not one but three wine caves where you can experience the family's wide range of vintages grown in regions including Rutherford, Oakville, St. Helena, Howell Mountain, and Fort Ross-Seaview on the Sonoma Coast. The newest of the three locations is Piazza Del Dotto in Napa, which sits on eight-and-a-half acres of cabernet sauvignon vines as well as vegetable gardens and the opportunity to spot turkeys, peacocks, pheasants and doves. The Piazza is your exclusive chance to team Del Dotto's signature Cave Experience & Barrel Tasting ($120/person with reservation) with a pairing of foodie delicacies ($225/person, Thursday through Saturday). Meanwhile at the St. Helena estate, which opened in 2007, the caves are far more opulent with chandeliers that would be at home in a Medieval castle. History buffs, though, may prefer to visit Del Dotto's historic property dating back to 1885 on Napa's Atlas Peak Road. Restored in the 1990s to house red wines for aging, this cave is celebrating its post-pandemic reopening on August 5th for members and on August 12th to the public. // 1055 Atlas Peak Rd (Napa), 1445 St. Helena Hwy (St. Helena), and 7466 St. Helena Hwy (Napa); deldottovineyards.com

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Winery Directory

35 Best Sonoma Wineries & Wine Tasting Tours for 2024

View of the morning fog over one of Sonoma's vineyards

These are Some of the Best Wineries in Sonoma, Along with Recommended Wine Tours, Restaurants and Places to Stay in the Sonoma Wine Region This Year

Sonoma is the perfect balance to neighboring Napa: it’s geographically larger, its grape varieties are more diverse, and is generally much more relaxed. Where Napa has slick experiences at famous labels, Sonoma has more rustic wineries where you’ll likely meet owners working double time in the tasting room.

Here, we explore some of the best Sonoma wineries, tours, restaurants, and hotels to craft the ultimate wine country experience for Winetravelers. Please note that we’ve roughly grouped the information by region; since Sonoma is so big, we’ve listed places that are near to each other to make it all easier for visitors to navigate.

Top Sonoma Wineries to Visit this Year

Arrowood vineyards & winery.

14347 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen

800-938-5170

Why Guests Love It: Veranda Picnics, Stunning Views, Sonoma-Sourced Grapes

Arrowood is a smaller-production winery that exemplifies Sonoma Valley. It’s charming, cozy, and excellent. Arrowood specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon , but other offerings include Prowess, a Bordeaux-style red blend with lovely velvety tannins. Make reservations for a picnic to fully enjoy the grounds.

Hanzell Vineyards

18596 Lomita Ave, Sonoma

707-996-3860

Why Guests Love It: Rustic Buildings, Bio-Farming, Stellar Pinot Noir

To experience Hanzell is to experience expertise. From the emphasis on farming to the gorgeous rustic tasting barn, Hanzell offers some of the best of Sonoma. Book a visit to meet resident herding dogs, pigs, chickens, and of course, to taste through some stunning Chardonnay and Pinot Noir .

Patz & Hall

21200 8 th St E, Sonoma

707-265-7700

Why Guests Love It: Sparkling Wine, Award-Winning Chardonnay, Beautiful Patio

Patz & Hall knows their way around Chardonnay and Pinot Noir – so much so that they offer the wines in both still and as blended sparkling wines. And, they offer a range of each so guests are able to taste through the varied terroir of Sonoma Valley. Schedule a Sonoma House tasting to experience the gorgeous range of flavors.

RELATED: Visit Some of Napa’s Best Wineries with our Wine Tasting Travel Guide

Bedrock Wine Co.

414 1 st St E, Sonoma

707-343-1478

Why Guests Love It: Limited Production, Historic Tasting Room, Interesting Wines

For those looking for some powerhouse (but balanced!) Zinfandels, Bedrock Wine Co. is where it’s at. However, Bedrock also produces some lesser-seen varietals, like Semillon , that are simply delightful. Tastings are very limited so be sure to book well in advance to try the wines in a historic 1852 house.

RELATED: Different Kinds of Sparkling Wine to Try Around the World

Amapola Creek Vineyards & Winery

392 London Way, Sonoma

707-938-3783

Why Guests Love It: Vineyard Views, Off-the-Beaten-Path, Age Worthy Wines

Amapola Creek is a microcosm of Sonoma of sorts, with fabulous Chardonnay, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Petite Sirah. The tasting room is slightly off-the-beaten path, nestled in quietly among the vines. Guests are encouraged to relax in the beautiful surroundings to experience “Slownoma.” Be sure to grab some larger formats because these wines age beautifully.

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

2000 Denmark St, Sonoma

707-938-5277

Why Guests Love It: Historic Property, Stunning Architecture, Food Pairings

For those eager to step back into California history, Gundlach Bundschu is the place to do so! The oldest family-owned winery in the state, Gundlach has no intention of stopping any time soon, thankfully for all of us! Book a food pairing, a Swiss Army truck excursion, or keep an eye out for special events – everything here is designed to be laid-back, fun, and delicious.

RELATED: Learn About Sonoma’s History, Terroir & Grape Varieties

3339 Hartman Rd, Santa Rosa

707-921-1040

Why Guests Love It: Boutique Producer, Organic Vineyards, Beautiful Views

Benovia has become a sought-after boutique producer, with small quantities that sell out quickly. Their stunning Chardonnays and Pinots show why: luscious fruit with bright clarity and balance. And tastings at the winery are just as beautiful, limited to small groups at their ranch house.

Merry Edwards Winery

2959 Gravenstein Hwy N, Sebastopol

888-388-9050

Why Guests Love It: Legendary Producer, Female Winemaker, Stunning Pinots

Merry Edwards has some of the most recognizable labels in the world: the Arts & Crafts-inspired prints stand out for their beauty and tradition. And, they are representative of the wine inside, which are among the most sought-after in California. Best known for site-specific Pinots, Merry Edwards’s Sauvignon Blanc is a standout due to its creamy texture and softer edge.

Dutton-Goldfield Winery

3100 Gravenstein Hwy N, Sebastopol

707-823-3887

Why Guests Love It: Cool Climate Wines, Laidback Vibe, Luncheons & Events

Housed in an unassuming structure in Sebastopol, Dutton-Goldfield offers guests a range of wine from cooler microclimates throughout Sonoma. Elegance, balance, and personality are the goals here, and all are achieved magnificently. Be sure to try the Gewürztraminer for an eye-opening experience.

Martinelli Vineyards & Winery

3360 River Rd, Windsor

707-525-0570

Why Guests Love It: Family Owned, Rustic Setting, Standout Zinfandels

The Martinelli family has been cultivating grapes in Sonoma for over one hundred years when their ancestors first arrived from Italy. Handed down through the generations since, Martinelli still has the “like Nonna used to make” vibe about it. Service is about as warm and friendly as it gets, and the wines are just as enticing. Think Zin, in particular, to pair with your favorite fra diavolo.

Ridge – Lytton Springs

650 Lytton Springs Rd, Healdsburg

707-433-7721

Why Guests Love It: Legendary Producer, Critical Favorites, Stunning Setting

Ridge almost needs no introduction but we’ll give it one anyway: one of the most celebrated California producers for over 60 years, Ridge manages to craft critical and consumer favorites year in and year out. And weirdly, Ridge is one of the most inexpensive tasting experiences to be had. Considering the quality of wines and surroundings, stopping by Ridge isn’t even a question – it’s a must.

Arnot-Roberts

33 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg

707-433-2400

Why Guests Love It: Interesting Varietals, Small Production, Single Vineyard

On the odd chance visitors are looking for something other than Pinot or Chardonnay (though… is that even possible?), Arnot-Roberts is the place to go. This no-frills tasting experience includes wines that are unlike anywhere else: Ribolla Gialla, Falanghina, and Trousseau are offered alongside Pinot, Chard, and Zin. Be sure to join their mailing list to get first dibs on such limited releases.

5610 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-431-4404

Why Guests Love It: Beautiful Setting, Whimsical Vibe, Pairings Tasting

For those who love the intersection of art, magic, and wine, VML is a must. The wines are created to embody the magic and mystery of Sonoma, and the labels are gorgeous interpretations of that theme. Guests can delight in their surroundings as they taste through the impressive lineup, or simply get lost in the label art. Have a look at the trompe l’oeil that is Svengali Syrah – it’s fascinating.

Dry Creek Vineyard

3770 Lambert Bridge Rd, Healdsburg

707-433-1000

Why Guests Love It: Classically Styled Wines, Historic Winery, Laidback Vibe

Dry Creek has held steady for over 50 years, making it one of the oldest wineries in Sonoma. And, what we love about it is its commitment to tradition: while others have pushed fruit and alcohol over-the-top, Dry Creek has maintained a more reined-in style, particularly with its Heritage wines. Make sure to try their Heritage Zinfandel to taste why it deserves its accolades.

Mauritson Wines

2859 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-431-0804

Why Guests Love It: Family Owned, Vineyard Views, Female Winemaker

Mauritson has been in the family for six generations and their dedication and passion has never wavered. Guests are encouraged to book a vineyard tour to experience that passion first-hand before setting in among the vines to taste through the standout wines. And with so many offerings to choose from, a Mauritson tasting truly has something for everyone.

RELATED: The Best Things to Do around Healdsburg in Sonoma

Unti Vineyards

4202 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-433-5590

Why Guests Love It: Italian Varietals, Organic Farming, Small Production

Unti bypassed Cabs and Pinots and headed straight towards Rhône and Italy! The focus here is those grapes that are best suited for the climate of this specific property and Unti crafts some of the best around. Guests can taste through Grenache Blanc, Barbera, Aglianico, and even Fiano – all are impressive.

4900 W Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-431-833

Why Guests Love It: Beautiful Grounds, Organic Farming, Dog Friendly

Best known for their award-winning Zinfandels, Quivira produces Primitivo, Sauvignon Blanc, and more – and all are fantastic. Guests can enjoy the gorgeous grounds while sipping their way through the offerings, all of which is the result of organic farming practices. Be sure to try the La Follette lineup as well.

Nalle Winery

2383 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-433-1040

Why Guests Love It: Relaxed Atmosphere, Eco-conscious, Friendly Service

Nalle makes a point to be straightforward and approachable without the pretension that can pop up in the wine world. Mission accomplished! This laid-back experience allows guests to taste some fantastic wines with friendly staff. Bonus: Ask about the coat of arms.

Chalk Hill Estate Winery

10300 Chalk Hill Rd, Healdsburg

707-657-1809

Why Guests Love It: Legendary Producer, Beautiful Views, Winemaker Dinners

Chalk Hill has been producing award-winning wines for over 50 years, making it one of the staples of Sonoma wine country. Commitment to quality shines, with fruit-forward wines of incredible balance. Order a charcuterie board for a pairing experience.

Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery

15725 Meyers Grade Rd, Jenner

707-847-3460

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Views, Cool Climate Wines, Food Pairings

Fort Ross is a little further afield but is oh-so-worth it. Nestled near the mighty Pacific, it benefits from cool ocean air to moderate the microclimate. A tasting experience here includes gorgeous ocean views, stunning wines, and curated pairings.

Sonoma Wine Tours

While we’re thrilled to share our favorite experiences throughout Sonoma, let someone else do the driving, don’t worry about logistics and get a local’s perspective. Here are some of our favorite tours in Sonoma.

Sonoma Wine Rides will pick guests up at their hotels and tour wineries throughout Sonoma. Charcuterie boards are included.

This Sonoma Walking Food, Wine, & History Tour explores historic Sonoma on foot. It’s a beautiful experience and guests are able to try local cheese and chocolate along the way.

Sonoma Adventures Bike Tour with Lunch is a great option for those who want to slow down and take in the sweeping landscapes with a little exercise (one of our favorite ways to go wine tasting). Guests can go wine tasting at a more leisurely pace, and a picnic lunch is included.

The Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley , which includes lunch, enables guests to step back in time and explore Sonoma via trolley, recreated after San Francisco’s legendary cable cars. Guests can taste through at several wineries and enjoy the beautiful surroundings as they go.

But, why stay Earth-bound when you can see it all from above? Join-in Flight in Sonoma takes guests up, up and away in a hot air balloon to see the sweeping expanse of landscapes down below. It’s an unforgettable way to see Sonoma.

Sonoma Restaurants To Try

John ash & co..

4330 Barnes Rd, Santa Rosa

707-527-7687

The main restaurant at Vintners Resort is elegant, creative, and definitely a must for those on a wine-tasting adventure.

HopMonk Tavern

HopMonk has four locations in Sonoma (Sebastopol, Novato, Sonoma, and Penngrove) so it’s a great choice no matter where you land.

El Dorado Kitchen & Cantina

405 1 st St W, Sonoma

707-996-3030

Located in the historic El Dorado Hotel in downtown Sonoma, the Kitchen offers seasonal brunches and dinners, while the Cantina serves up informal fare like tacos and ceviche.

The Swiss Hotel

18 W Spain St, Sonoma

707-938-2884

Housed in a boutique hotel in Sonoma, the restaurant here offers a laid-back vibe for pizza and pasta.

the girl + the fig

110 W Spain St, Sonoma

707-938-3634

French classics in downtown Sonoma make the girl + the fig a perennial favorite for all.

Fern Bar in The Barlow

6780 Depot St, Sebastopol

707-861-9603

This elegant space is a great choice for vegetarians and carnivores alike, with inventive dishes for all.

Gravenstein Grill

8050 Bodega Ave, Sebastopol

707-634-6142

Seasonal menu with fresh ingredients served on a beautiful patio space for a fully Sonoma experience.

Underwood Bar and Bistro

9113 Graton Rd, Graton

707-823-7023

This cozy, eclectic restaurant serves up bistro fare with California ingredients, alongside a killer wine list.

Drake’s Sonoma Coast Cuisine

103 Coast (Highway 1), Bodega Bay

707-917-0567

Fresh seafood and more in a stunning setting along the rugged Pacific Coast.

304 Center St, Healdsburg

707-473-8440

The art of barbecue can be found in this rustic, community-focused setting with everything from brisket to po’ boys.

Excellent Sonoma Hotels

Vintners resort.

Vineyard views, spa services, on-site dining, and amenities like a bocce court and gym make the Vintners Resort perfect for a weekend getaway or more.

El Dorado Hotel

Private balconies at the El Dorado Hotel offer vineyard views for guests who want to stay in the walkable downtown Sonoma. Onsite dining options are also fantastic.

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

100 Boyes Blvd, Sonoma

707-938-9000

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission award-winning inn is tranquility itself, with fireplaces and jacuzzis throughout. Enjoy spa services for true relaxation.

MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa

29 E MacArthur St, Sonoma

707-938-2929

Charming attention to detail dots MacArthur Place Hotel with everything from yoga to spa services and multiple dining options.

The Lodge at Bodega Bay

103 Highway 1, Bodega Bay

707-875-3525

The breathtaking views alone at The Lodge at Bodega Bay are a must, and the amenities and dining options even more so.

Getting There

The southern end of Sonoma Valley is about an hour north of the Bay Area, accessible through Marin to the west or through Vallejo to the east. Northern areas of Sonoma can take 3 to 4 hours to reach from the Bay Area directly, so be sure to map out the route in advance. Since it is a large area, visitors are best advised to rent a car and have plenty of time to fully explore it.

Private day trips and tours through Sonoma Valley are also offered by Hansom Tours . Check current flight deals into San Francisco on Kayak.

Sonoma is quite close to Napa Valley, which runs parallel, to the east. However, mountain passes between the two are often very windy and can be quite dangerous to navigate, particularly at night. We recommend focusing on one valley or the other to fully enjoy the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Sonoma Wineries

How many wineries to visit for one day in sonoma.

When planning a delightful day trip through Sonoma’s wine country, it’s all about striking the perfect balance to make the most of your experience. While the number of Sonoma wineries to visit can vary based on your personal taste, travel tempo, and the particular vineyards on your list, most #Winetravelers aim for 3 to 4 wineries in a day. This leisurely pace allows you to savor the wine tastings, embark on fascinating tours, and truly appreciate the breathtaking landscapes without any time pressure. So, why not immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Sonoma wines and create memories that last a lifetime? Be sure to also set aside some time digesting food and wine within Healdsburg while you’re into the Sonoma region.

Is Napa Valley or Sonoma better?

Ah, the age-old question: Napa Valley or Sonoma? Which wine region should take the crown? Truth be told, each has its own unique charm and allure, making it difficult to pick just one as the ultimate winner. Napa Valley , renowned for its prestigious wineries and luxurious experiences, tends to be a magnet for those seeking opulence and glamour. On the other hand, Sonoma, with its laid-back atmosphere and diverse range of wineries, often captures the hearts of those yearning for a more relaxed and approachable vibe. Sonoma also tends to be more affordable. Either way, both regions are very close to each other, so you could get a taste of both if you have a few days to spare. In the end, the choice between Napa Valley and Sonoma boils down to personal preferences and what kind of wine adventure you’re craving. Are you dreaming of sipping world-class Cabernet Sauvignon amidst the glitz and grandeur? Napa Valley is calling your name! Or perhaps you’re seeking a tranquil escape where you can explore the hidden gems and savor a variety of delightful wines? Sonoma might just be your perfect match. Whichever destination you choose, rest assured that unforgettable experiences and exceptional wines await you.

Is Sonoma more affordable than Napa?

In general, Sonoma is often considered more affordable than Napa Valley, both in terms of wine tasting fees and other travel expenses like accommodations, dining, and transportation. While there are certainly luxurious and high-end experiences available in Sonoma, the region is known for its more laid-back, approachable atmosphere and a broader range of budget-friendly options. Wine tasting fees in Sonoma tend to be lower on average compared to those in Napa Valley, and there are more wineries with affordable or complimentary tastings. Additionally, accommodations and dining options in Sonoma often span a wider price range, making it easier to find something that suits your budget.

What is the average wine tasting fee in Sonoma?

Wine tasting fees in Sonoma can vary greatly depending on the winery, the type of tasting experience, and whether or not the fee includes a guided tour or food pairings. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $50 per person for a standard wine tasting at most wineries. However, some premium or more exclusive tasting experiences can cost upwards of $75 to $100 or more. Keep in mind that some wineries may waive the tasting fee if you purchase a bottle of wine, while others may offer complimentary tastings for wine club members or by special invitation. Also, if you’re a Visa Signature credit card holder, many Sonoma Wineries participate in discounted tasting and tour experiences. You can read our guide to the Sonoma Visa Signature credit card program here. It’s a good idea to research the wineries you’re interested in visiting to get an accurate idea of their tasting fees and any available discounts or promotions.

What is the best time of year to visit Sonoma wineries?

The best time of year to visit Sonoma wineries ultimately depends on your preferences and interests. However, there are certain times of the year that offer unique experiences and more favorable weather conditions. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect during different seasons in Sonoma: Spring (March-May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Sonoma, as the vineyards awaken from their winter slumber and the landscape is adorned with vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and wine tasting. Spring is also less crowded than the peak summer and harvest seasons, so you can enjoy a more relaxed experience. Summer (June-August): Summer is a popular time to visit Sonoma, with warm, sunny days and plenty of events and festivals taking place. The vineyards are in full swing, and you can enjoy long days of wine tasting and outdoor activities. However, summer can also be quite crowded, and accommodations may be more expensive and harder to find. Fall (September-November): The fall season, particularly September and October, is a favorite time for many wine enthusiasts to visit Sonoma. The harvest season is in full swing, and the vineyards are bustling with activity as grapes are picked and crushed. The weather is still warm and pleasant, and the changing colors of the leaves create a picturesque backdrop. Keep in mind that this is a peak season for wine tourism, so expect larger crowds and potentially higher prices for accommodations. Winter (December-February): Winter is the low season in Sonoma, with cooler temperatures, rain, and fewer tourists. While the vineyards may not be as visually stunning during this time, you can still enjoy wine tastings and tours, as well as discounted accommodations and a more intimate experience. It’s also a great time to explore Sonoma’s dining scene, as many restaurants participate in the annual Sonoma County Restaurant Week.

What is the best way to get around Sonoma wine country?

Exploring Sonoma wine country is an enchanting experience, and one of the most enjoyable and stress-free ways to do so is by hiring a driver or booking a privately guided tour of the region. This option allows you to fully immerse yourself in the wine tastings and breathtaking scenery without worrying about navigation, parking, or driving under the influence. Having a knowledgeable local driver or tour guide can also greatly enhance your experience, as they can provide valuable insights, recommend hidden gems, and customize the itinerary based on your preferences. There are various transportation services and wine tour companies available in Sonoma that cater to different budgets and group sizes. From luxury sedans and limousines to comfortable vans and minibuses, you can choose the vehicle that best suits your needs. Everything from Sonoma tours with concierge services to both hiking and wine tasting tours exist in Sonoma . We include additional recommendations in this travel guide. Many of these services offer customizable packages, allowing you to select the wineries you’d like to visit or rely on the expertise of your guide to craft the perfect wine country experience.

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California Winery Advisor

Your Independent Guide to the Wine Country

The 15 Best Sonoma Wineries To Visit

Allison Levine [January 2024]

When visiting Sonoma , where does one get started wine tasting? As a region, Sonoma County encompasses more than fifty miles from Carneros in the south to Cloverdale in the north. It is home to seventeen American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). Some are well-known such as Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Alexander Valley, to name a few, and others are lesser known such as Moon Mountain, Fort-Ross Seaview, and Green Valley. Sonoma is home to the state of California’s oldest commercial winery, Buena Vista, as well as the oldest continuously operating family winery, Gundlach Bundschu. And, there are more than 425 wineries on almost 60,000 acres. That means there are a lot of decisions to be made before you start a Sonoma wine tasting adventure.

Unlike Sonoma’s neighbor to the east, Napa , where there are wineries located off of the main highway, many of the wineries in Sonoma are spread throughout the valley. So where do you begin? It is easier to find some of the bigger known wineries in the county, but seeking out small and medium-sized boutique wineries is what I prefer to do. Here are eleven Sonoma wine tasting finds that are worth a visit throughout the valley.

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As you enter Sonoma Valley, the first area is Carneros, which actually sits in both Napa and Sonoma Counties.

1) Schug Carneros Estate (www.schugwinery.com) | Save on Schug tastings with the Priority Wine Pass

Started in 1980 by Walter Schug, Schug Carneros Estate sits on fifty acres that overlook Carneros. Walter Schug was a pioneer of pinot noir, having been raised in Germany where his father ran the first pinot noir estate along the Rhine River in Germany.

Schug emigrated to the U.S. in 1961 and after working for Julian Gallo, he worked at Joseph Phelps where he created the infamous Insignia. Desiring to make pinot noir, Schug created his own label in 1980 and opened the winery in 1989. Although Walter Schug passed away in 2015, the winery is still family owned and run by his son Axel.

Winemaker Michael Cox has been with Schug for twenty-one years and is focused on producing elegant wines. Stop by the tasting room for a $10 tasting or set up a private winery tour and tasting where you will enjoy the Schug Rouge du Noir Brut sparkling wine, as well as selected chardonnay, pinot noir, and cabernet sauvignon, paired with cheeses.

Continue your Sonoma wine tasting tour north of Carneros is the town of Sonoma. Centered around the largest plaza in California, the Sonoma Square is home to a number of tasting rooms worth a visit.

2) Sojourn Cellars (www.sojourncellars.com):

Beginning with sourcing pinot noir from the famous Sangiacomo Vineyard, today they work with some of the best vineyards in Sonoma and Napa.

Focusing on balanced wine, Sojourn Cellars believes in being hands-off in the winemaking process by using natural yeasts and not filtering or fining the wines. In the end, they are able to capture the time and place in the bottle. Today they produce 8500 cases of wine. They include nine pinot noirs, seven of which are single vineyard They also produce cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay.

Schedule an appointment in the Sojourn Salon. Here you can enjoy a seated comparison tasting of the wines produced from various vineyards.

3) Pangloss Cellars (www.panglosscellars.com):

Located in the Sonoma Plaza, the Pangloss tasting room is in a restored building built in 1902. It is a magnificent space, with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, a large bar in the center of the room. There are couches and chairs positioned throughout the space for small groups.

Winemaker Erich Bradley of Sojourn Cellars also makes the wines for Pangloss. Bradley focuses on expressing the terroir in the wines he produces. He wants each wine to have its own personality. The wines are accessible and taste good, and are even better when enjoyed in a wine and food flight.

Enjoy a flight of white wines with a selection of caviar, a Burgundy flight with cheese, a Sonoma flight with charcuterie, a Bordeaux flight with pate or a red wine flight with chocolates.

Producing less than 1000 cases of each wine, ranging from Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay to Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and a Rhone blend, the Pangloss wines are only available for purchase at the tasting lounge.

4) Auteur Wines (https://www.auteurwines.com):

The winery was recently written up in Wine Spectator as one of the Top 10 Sonoma Pinot Noirs to Try Now, so be sure to schedule an appointment if you want to visit.

The Auteur tasting room is a small house just off the Sonoma Plaza and visiting is like going to a friend’s home. It is relaxed and intimate and each room in the house offers a cozy tasting area. In the living room, you can sit on couches as you taste. Larger groups can center around the dining room table or head outside to the outdoor patio.

5) Three Sticks Wines (www.threestickswines.com):

Founded in 2002 by owner William Price III, known as Billy Three Sticks growing up surfing in Hawaii, Three Sticks focuses on producing wines from some of Sonoma’s best vineyards, including Durell and Gap’s Crown. Three Sticks produces approximately 4000 cases per year of chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, as well as a tasting room exclusive of white, red, and rosè Rhone blends. These wines can all be enjoyed at The Adobe where the tasting room is located. The Adobe was home to Don Juan Casteñado, secretary to General Vallejo, in 1842. Price and his wife purchased this historic home in 2012 and spent two years renovating and restoring it. Today it is open via appointment only. Enjoy a tasting of four current releases for $35 or a library tasting of seven wines for $70. The Adobe is a place of warmth and hospitality and whether you sit inside the home or in the outdoor garden, an intimate tasting of Three Sticks winery will be memorable.

6) Kamen Estate Wines (www.kamenwines.com):

The vineyard is one of the first organic certified vineyards in the country. Kamen Estate Wines produces 3000 cases of primarily cabernet sauvignon, as well as sauvignon blanc, grenache, syrah and cabernet franc. Stop in at the tasting room along the Sonoma Plaza or schedule a tasting that will take you into the vineyard at the top of Moon Mountain where you can sip wine as you overlook Sonoma Valley.

Your Sonoma wine tasting adventure continues a little further up the road from Sonoma in the town of Kenwood, home to more tasting rooms and restaurants.

7) B Wise (www.bwisevineyards.com) | Save on B Wise tastings with the Priority Wine P ass

Brian Wise purchased 100 acres in Moon Mountain in 2001. He was drawn to the undeveloped property that had been an old stone quarry at the turn of the century because of its proximity to the iconic Monte Rosso vineyard. The twenty-one acres of vineyards are planted at an elevation of 700 feet in red volcanic ash which gives the cabernet sauvignon a fresh, vital quality with bright aromas of dark red fruits and minerality.

The tasting room in Kenwood is a modern lounge with a bar, tables, and couches but the real treat is to book a private tasting in the Cellar Reserve Room at the vineyard. Heading up Moon Mountain, you will be taken into the caves that are home to the perfect “man cave” where you can enjoy reserve and library selection.

Up the road from Kenwood is Santa Rosa. Santa Rosa is the largest city in Sonoma County. You will head off the main road to the wineries of the Russian River for more great Sonoma wine tasting options.

8) Inman Family Wines (www.inmanfamilywines.com):

Inman Family Wines has been producing wine since 2000. Owner and winemaker, Kathleen Inman organically farms 10.45 acres at her Olivet Grange Vineyard in the heart of the Russian River.

Producing 3000 cases of pinot noir, chardonnay, and pinot gris, the wines are elegant and subtle. These are not big ripe wines but rather wines with low alcohol, high acidity, and perfect to pair with food.

The Inman tasting room is located at the winery in the vineyard. Inman’s focus on sustainable winemaking translates to the winery which is made almost entirely from recycled materials. Tastings are available Thursday through Sunday by appointment only. And, if you are looking for somewhere to stay, Inman offers a three-bedroom, one-bathroom farmhouse on the property with the motto of “bed and get your own breakfast.”

As you continue to head north towards Healdsburg, make a stop in the town of Windsor. The town is not much larger than a few streets but tucked in some warehouses is Artisan Alley Windsor, home to artisanal wine, cider, and spirit producers.

9) Two Shepherds (www.twoshepherds.com):

From his writing to his natural ability to make wine, he was known as the “palate shepherd.” As a shepherd of both the palate and the wine, the name Two Shepherds was born.

Allen takes a minimalist approach to winemaking. With only 1500 cases of wine produced, the wines are unfiltered and unfined. Allen is focused on Rhone blends, including amazing carignan and rosè carignan from 45-year-old head-trained vines that are dry farmed. Producing wines for wine geeks, be sure to try the trousseau gris made from the only planting in California.

Two Shepherds tasting room is open every Saturday but if you are there on another day, call ahead to make an appointment.

From Windsor, head further north to the town of Healdsburg. This is a prime Sonoma wine tasting spot.

10) MacRostie Winery and Vineyard (www.macrostiewinery.com):

MacRostie Winery was originally opened in 1987 by Steve MacRostie. A visionary, MacRostie was one of the first people to plant in the fog-shrouded vineyards of Sonoma County. After thirty years, he sold to Distinguished Vineyards and Wine Partners in 2011 but still guides the winemaking along with winemaker Heidi Bridenhagen.

MacRostie produces pinot noir and chardonnay from numerous sites including the fifty-eight acres from the Wildcat Mountain Vineyard that was planted in 1998. In February 2015, MacRostie Winery opened the winery and tasting room on Westside Road.

Sitting on twenty-eight acres, thirteen of which are planted to pinot noir, the estate house is a modern facility with views overlooking Sonoma County. From the moment you walk up and are greeted with a glass of chardonnay to sitting on the patio or in the living room, you may never want to leave.

11) Jordan Winery ( www.jordanwinery.com ):

Located in Healdsburg, but within the Alexander Valley AVA, Jordan Winery produces Alexander Valley cabernet sauvignon and Russian River Valley Chardonnay.

After a drive up the long hill and driveway, you will find the magnificent Jordan Winery Chateau that sits on the 1200 acres owned by the family. In addition to 112 acres of vineyards, there are eighteen acres of olive groves, a two-acre vegetable garden, fruit trees and flower garden, a bass lake, and livestock, including fifty-three black Angus cattle, seventeen chickens, two mini-donkeys, a maverick, and a goose. And, the winery is one hundred percent solar-powered, especially in the summer.

Visits to Jordan Winery are appointment only but you can select a library tasting, a winery tour, and library tasting or an estate tour and tasting which will take you by luxury shuttle around the immense property.

12. Pedroncelli Winery (https://www.pedroncelli.com)

Pedroncelli Winery is a fourth-generation family-owned winery in the Dry Creek Valley, a region known for its Zinfandel that first planted by Italian immigrants. The Pedroncelli family has been producing wine for 90 years and is run by second, third, and fourth-generation family members.

Pedroncelli’s certified sustainable estate vineyards include 50 acres on the home ranch, another 50 acres across Dry Creek, and the 15-acre Bushnell Vineyard that sits on a high bench in the middle of Dry Creek Valley. On the home ranch, there are 33 aces of Zinfandel, with some of the oldest vines more than 100 years old.

Pedroncelli produces an extensive line that includes three Zinfandels, three Cabernet Sauvignons, three Chardonnays, and more. Make a reservation for a tasting at Pedroncelli and you can choose your own flight of wines or let Pedroncelli chose a preorganized flight for you.

13. ACORN Winery (https://acornwinery.com)

ACORN Winery, located in the Russian River Valley, is owned by Bill and Betsy Nachbaur. In 1990, they purchased the historic 32-acre Alegría Vineyard which included eight-and-a-half acres planted to heritage grapes dating back to 1890.

The Alegría Vineyard is certified sustainable, and Bill and Betsy are maintaining the tradition of the vineyard with field blends. Twenty-six acres are planted to approximately 40 different grape varieties, including heritage grapes, such as Zinfandel, Petit Sirah, Carignan, and Alicante Bouschet, as well as Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, and Dolcetto. They also have many other lesser-known varieties, such as Freisa, Graciano, Plavac Mali (from Croatia), and Liatiko (from Crete), to name a few. The diverse grape varieties grow together, are harvested together, are crushed together, and are co-fermented.

ACORN Winery specializes in interesting and delicious field blends. Book a tasting in advance and you will likely be joined by either Betsy or Bill who will share a selection of their wines in a casual, private tasting.

14. Benziger Family Winery (https://www.benziger.com)

The Benziger Family created their family winery in 1980 after purchasing the Wegener Ranch on Sonoma Mountain in Glen Ellen. The first winery in Napa and Sonoma County to be certified as a Biodynamic winemaker, the Benzigers have farmed their 86-acre property using certified Biodynamic, organic, and sustainable farming methods for more than 20 years.

Rated among The 7 Best Sonoma County Wine Tours by Winecountry.com and USA Today Readers Choice Awards winner of the Best Winery Tour, a visit to Benziger is not complete without an in-depth tour of the biodynamically farmed estate. Book the Biodynamic Vineyard Tram Tour to get a broad overview of the property, the history of the winery, and the winery's Biodynamic farming practices. Visit the insectary, a garden of plants that attract beneficial insects, the wine cave, and see the Scottish Highlander cattle and sheep whose job it is to eat the weeds, till the soil with their hooves, and fertilize the vines.

15. Ram’s Gate Winery (https://ramsgatewinery.com)

Ram’s Gate, founded in 2011, sits on a 28-acre estate in which the Sonoma Valley ends on the south side of the vineyard, the Sonoma Coast on the east, and Carneros on the west. Primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Noir producers, Ram’s Gate also makes small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Blanc. Ram’s Gate offers a diverse selection of wines ranging from blends that express the diversity of the Sonoma region to single-vineyard wines that speak to where they are from.

Reserve one of the experiences offered by Ram’s Gate, ranging from a seated wine tasting to a caviar experience. Between May and October, Ram’s Gate offers the Sip and Savor at the Pond Experience where you can relax in a cabana or in Adirondack chairs around the pond and enjoy a bottle of wine with friends. And if you bring your appetite, indulge in a wine and food pairing experience with five seasonal courses crafted by Executive Chef Ruby Oliveros paired with five wines, hand-selected by General Manager and Director of Winemaking Joe Nielsen.

As you plan your next Sonoma wine tasting tour, be sure to schedule appointments in advance at these eleven Sonoma wineries finds to get the most out of your visit.

About the Author:

Allison is the owner of Please The Palate , a boutique agency specializing in marketing and event planning for the wine and spirits industry.

Allison has a Master's Degree in International Communications with a focus on cross-cultural training from the American University School of International Service. Allison is certified as an Italian Wine Specialist from the North American Sommelier Association and Level 2 WSET from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust. As a Freelance Writer, she spends her time eating and drinking her way around the world.

Allison also writes for the Napa Valley Register, WineTouristMagazine.com, and other outlets, in addition to her blog at Please The Palate ; Twitter and Instagram @plsthepalate; Facebook: Please The Palate

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Guest Experiences

Welcome to Carneros! We look forward to greeting you on our Sonoma estate where you will have the opportunity to relax and create a tasting experience that is perfectly suited to you. From culinary pairings to extended tirage selections to vineyard excursions, we look forward to sharing our Sonoma-grown wines with you and telling our story of how our passion for sparkling wine all began.

To help us best prepare for your visit, kindly note that with the exception of registered service animals, pets are not permitted in the tasting room or vista terrace. If you would like to bring your furry friend along, we offer a specially curated experience called Pup the Cork , which can be reserved in advance. To help provide a safe, relaxing and intimate experience, we ask that all visitors be at least 21 years of age.

If you are looking to book a group larger than 16, please reach out to our Events Team .

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Best Wine Cave Tours in Sonoma

One of the “Must Do” experiences of wine tasting is venturing into a wine cave. There is a wonderful musty smell and an ambiance you don’t see anywhere else. The cool temperatures in a cave are a shock to the system and it is a great escape from the summer heat! Unfortunately there aren’t many caves that are open to the public. In Sonoma in particular getting an inside peek into a cave could set you back some serious cash. Well don’t worry, we’ve searched the region and done the grunt work for you. We’re confident that these are some of the best wine cave tours in Sonoma.

Great Service & Complimentary Wine Cave Tours at Alexander Valley

As we mentioned coordinating a cave tour can get pricey. Schug, Gun. Bun., Benzinger, Gloria Ferrer, as well as a handful of others charge big bucks for these kind of experiences. That’s what makes Alexander Valley Vineyard so extraordinary. They offer complimentary tours at 11am and 2pm every day for parties under 10 people. Not only do they serve incredible wines, but the staff goes over-the-top welcoming you into their wine caves and explaining their process. You’ll be equally pleased with their tasting room that lies right outside the caves as well. This makes it a no brainer if you are in the area.

Dive deep into Deerfield Ranch Winery

Priority Wine Pass’ favorite wine cave experience is at Kenwood’s Deerfield Ranch Winery . We like this spot because it is family run and down to earth. The staff is genuine and friendly and knowledgeable. This experience begins by walking through their production area and crush platform. It is a delight to experience during harvest as you’re in the thick of it. Continue the tour through some 15ft tall redwood doors into the mouth of the cave. As you enter you will pass rows and rows of barrels. Of course, you’ll get a nice gust of that cave must that I love and spoke of earlier.

Some smells can’t be beat. You are now in the center of the cave, where plush sofas, assorted tables, and of course a wine bar welcomes you. Grab your comfy seat, park, and let the wine start flowing. A standard cave tours is where you do a tour and then taste elsewhere. Deerfield Ranch gives you the option of exploring the cave on your own. At the same time you’re actually tasting inside inside the cave. It is a cozy and enchanting atmosphere. Then you can buy a bottle and walk outside to their picnic tables. Or you may bring a blanket and enjoy a casual picnic lunch in the warm Sonoma sun.

Speaking of wine, Deerfield Ranch has something special to offer everyone. Whites, reds, blends, and you can even make your own wine with your very own label if you’d like to do so! The wines they make are also ideal for those with sulfite sensitivities. The owner’s wife is allergic to sulfites so the majority of their wines are have a limited level of them. This allows those that are allergic to enjoy without the negative side effects. This is another perk. If you are in Sonoma this is a must visit! There are so many reasons, great hospitality, well made wines, the cave, and tastings only cost $20! For this area, Deerfield Ranch Winery cannot be beat.

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10 Best Sonoma County Wine Tours

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by DAISY BARRINGER
on AUGUST 2, 2024

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There’s nothing quite like a day of wine tasting in Sonoma County , but with more than 425 wineries spread out over 19 American Viticulture Areas (AVAs), it can be hard to know where to start. That’s exactly why taking a tour is one of the best ways to discover the region’s best wineries.

These days, wine tours aren’t limited to limousines (although that’s also an excellent option). You can pedal, trolley, and Tesla your way from vineyard to vineyard while also learning about the history of the area and maybe even enjoying some delicious nibbles along the way. Not sure which tour is for you? You can’t go wrong with any of these 10 wine tours, all of which will show you another side of Sonoma, and maybe even of yourself.

Best for the Winery Newcomer: Beau Wine Tours Best for the Kid at Heart: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley Best for the Person Who Wants It All: North Bay Wine Tours Best for the Party Planner: California Wine Tours Best for the Wine Savvy Traveler: Master Wine Tours Best for the Foodie: Pure Luxury Best for the Wine Collector: Designated Drivers Best for the Outdoor Enthusiast: Active Wine Adventures Best for the Freewheeler: Sonoma Valley Bike Tours Best for the Bachelorette Party: Bike Healdsburg

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Beau wine tours & limousine service.

Whether it be transportation from the airport to your hotel, recommendations on accommodations, or a complete beginning-to-end wine touring itinerary, California Wine Tours has got you covered. You can create a custom-made Sonoma wine tour that includes visiting boutique wineries , touring local farms, and a meal at a five-star restaurant, or choose one of their pre-planned tours. Depending on the size of your party, you can take your tour in a classic car for two or a 56-passenger luxury motor coach.

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“The Iron Horse tasting room is so unique — it's a rustic outdoor setup that lets you enjoy some of the best domestic sparkling wine out there, with a stunning view across the valley,” Machard de Gramont says. “They're known for their Wedding Cuvée, but don't sleep on the Ocean Reserve, a crisp and luscious blanc de blancs.” Green Valley, a small appellation located within the Russian River Valley AVA just northwest of Sebastopol, is known for its cool ocean air and thick cloak of fog, yielding some of the most interesting pinot noirs and chardonnays. Pro tip: when planning your visit to Iron Horse, keep an eye out for Four O’Clock Friday tasting events, which take the winery’s usual tasting experience and kick it up a notch.

Flowers Vineyards & Winery

Douglas Friedman

House of Flowers is one of those places that’s just bursting with inspiration at every turn. The gardens, interior design, architecture, and the light — it’s a place for daydreaming (a living Pinterest board, if you will). This Sonoma Coast winery’s austere, high-elevation pinot noirs and chardonnays are produced organically and biodynamically by winemaker Chantal Forthun, who harnesses the grapes’ coastal freshness, minerality, and nuance, paired perfectly by the House of Flowers culinary team. This picturesque winery’s generous tastings are an absolute must.

Rocco Ceselin

Windy Carneros is an interesting AVA — shared by both Sonoma and Napa, this cool-climate area is known for its hills, where grape varieties like chardonnay and pinot noir thrive. At Ram’s Gate, director of winemaking Joe Nielsen is highly skilled at showcasing the 28-acre winery’s unique terroir at the intersection of the Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Coast, and Carneros borders, and the chardonnays in particular are nothing short of striking. These high-acid, crisp wines are the polar opposite of what we typically assume California chardonnays to be (i.e. butter bombs), and while the winery offers a variety of excellent tasting experiences , there are few things better than a sip of chard at the laid-back, all-marble tasting bar overlooking the estate.

Abbot’s Passage Winery and Mercantile

Wool+Son

Situated in the charming town of Glen Ellen in the Sonoma Mountain AVA, Abbot’s Passage Winery and Mercantile is the brainchild of sixth-generation winemaker and entrepreneur Katie Bundschu of the Gundlach Bundschu family empire. And no visit to Sonoma is complete without a long, leisurely alfresco lunch within this contemporary dreamscape. Inspired by the “paths less traveled,” Abbot’s Passage features small-lot Rhône-style blends alongside some of the best food in the entire county, served family-style at the intimate-yet-spacious Field Tables or as bites during the winery’s Signature Tasting. Check out some of the other tasting experiences at Abbot’s Passage here — shuffleboard and charcuterie, anyone?

Marimar Estate

Also located within the Russian River Valley’s Green Valley appellation, Marimar Estate is home to some of Sonoma’s top white wines, according to Machard de Gramont. “For years, I had a hard time finding a California chardonnay that I really loved, and I found one of my favorites here. Marimar was founded by Marimar Torres of the famous Torres winemaking family of Spain — it's not surprising that the wines here have a European flair, but [they’ve] managed to find a great balance between Old World and New World,” she shares. “I love that the estate acknowledges their Spanish roots with the events they throw during the year, from paella parties to a Catalan holiday dinner.”

Chalk Hill Estate Winery

Courtesy of Chalk Hill Estate Winery

The terrace at Chalk Hill Estate Winery is perhaps one of the most picturesque places in Sonoma County to taste wine. It overlooks the 1,300-acre estate’s vineyards and gardens, along with the surrounding Russian River Valley and Mayacamas Mountain range. Guests of this 50-year-strong winery get an intimate look at winemaker Darrell Holbrook’s expressions of the small Chalk Hill AVA and its idiosyncratic soil composition, known for its white ash content. And, if you’re feeling fancy, opt for the caviar pairing with crème fraîche and homemade potato chips, which is now the only way we’ll take our chardonnay, thanks!

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Sonoma valley winery directory, top sonoma valley wineries.

Sonoma Valley is often considered Napa’s historic neighbor, being the birthplace of California’s wine industry. People from all over the world are attracted to Sonoma Valley for its gorgeous scenery, authentic wines, and rich history. Sonoma wineries trace their story back to roughly 1823, when the first grapes were planted. With over 10,000 residents, Sonoma Valley retains its quaint but lively energy, fostering an appreciation for cuisine, the arts, and nature. It’s no wonder Sonoma is home to a population that appreciates its surroundings, preserving many historical sub towns as well as its state parks.

The town of Sonoma houses charming hotels, high end boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and multiple tasting rooms for Sonoma wineries. Sonoma Square or “the Plaza” features a wonderful park with the historic city hall in the center, hosting many community events throughout the year including the Valley of the Moon Vintage every September, California’s oldest tradition of celebrating the area’s wine since 1897. Wineries in Sonoma are often family-owned and small production. Traditions are alive in Sonoma and guests are always thrilled to see them come to life.

With well over 400 wineries located in the North Bay and over 40 Sonoma Valley wineries, we hand-pick from the best to create wine tours that avoid the crowds and find the more intimate side, and the real charm, of our beautiful wine country. We focus on smaller, family-owned wineries and Sonoma wineries of historical significance while trying to avoid larger, more heavily visited wineries, providing you with a memorable experience. We’re thrilled that Trip Avisor consistently ranks our Sonoma Wine Tours as top-rated activities in the region, giving guests access to some of the most amazing hidden gem Sonoma wineries.

Make a Platypus Wine Tour reservation online now or call (707) 253-2723 . Learn more about wineries in Sonoma Valley. Have any specific Sonoma wineries you would like to visit? Plan a private tour with us and let’s create the perfect trip for you!

Here is a handy directory of many of wine country’s best wineries. You can use this directory while creating a custom, Private Tour . Please note that Join-in Tour wineries are selected by our experienced guides.

Adastra Vineyards

A small, family-owned enterprise making limited-production wines from their certified organic vineyard in the Napa Carneros.

Amapola Creek Vineyards

Iconic winemaker Richard Arrowood, whom has made acclaimed Sonoma County wines for 50+ years, founded Amapola Creek in 2010. Nestled in the Myacamas Mountains, guests are privately hosted at the rustic, barn-styled winery on the Arrowood family estate. The focus is on ultra-premium, small batch wine including Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Syrah, Monte Rosso Vineyard Zinfandel, and Russian River Chardonnay. The tastings are private and personal and have a laid back feel at the home property of the winemaker.

Anaba winery

Anaba Wines, was the first Sonoma Valley winery to be wind-powered, and their name originates from cool, upward-flowing anabatic winds that soar and swirl through their sustainably-farmed vineyards. With two generations involved, Anaba is family operated winery nestled at the base of stunning rolling hills in the Carneros Region. Strong, cooling breezes blow in from the Pacific Ocean and make the varietals of The Rhone and Burgundy regions right at home with Viognier, Grenache Blanc, and Chardonnay offered for whites and elegant Syrah, Pinot Noir, Rhone Blends, and Petite Syrah for reds.

Arrowood Vineyards and Winery

B Wise Estate

Brion Wise founded B Wise Vineyards in 2002 seated on top of a ridge in the Moon Mountain District of the Sonoma Valley. A Mediterranean style mansion/bungalow estate and home to the owner has incredible views and is known specifically for their comfortable and tastefully decorated wine cave. While you are in the cave tasting and looking at fermenting and aging tunnels, you will learn about their red blend wines while taking in the décor from 1920’s Paris with wild-west themed bronzes and vintage furniture.

Bartholomew Estate Winery

A charming estate steeped in history, Bartholomew had the first recorded vineyard in Sonoma and was part of California’s first commercial winery in 1857. Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, and red blends are made in extremely limited quantities and sell out quickly. Tastings can be outdoors beneath stunning mature oak trees or in the gorgeous, newly renovated historic Hacienda winery. Experience Sonoma history and natural beauty at this tucked away gem a few minutes from the Sonoma Plaza.

At Benziger, they prioritize family, excellent wine, and sustainable vineyards. For more than thirty years, they've been making distinctive wines from their Sonoma Mountain ranch and other top-quality vineyards in Sonoma County. They take pride in their eco-friendly farming practices, with each site certified Biodynamic, organic, or sustainable.

BR Cohn Winery

Under the sun in the Valley of the Moon, B.R. Cohn Winery has been making small lot, vineyard designated wines since 1984. Nestled between Sonoma Mountain and the Mayacamas Mountain range, the winery offers an inviting, relaxed environment for discovering new wines. Enjoy our memorabilia room that showcases founder Bruce Cohn's 45 years of rock-n-roll managing The Doobie Brothers. Saddle up to the wine bar or sit outside to enjoy the sunshine, our heritage Picholine olive grove and rolling hillside vineyards.

Buena Vista Winery

A historical icon in Sonoma, Buena Vista was the first commercial California winery founded in 1857 and is currently owned by legendary wine aficionado Jean Claude Boisset. Buena Vista blends old world elegance and a rustic charm with a splash of French style. The range of wine is vast with incredible sparkling wines and delightful still wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to bold red blends. Buena Vista has style beyond measure--from stunning historic wine buildings and caves to the opulent crystal-filled rooms of the Champagne Cellars, the experience is wonderfully immersive.

Canihan Family Cellars

Welcome to Canihan Family Winery where phenomenal wines are hand-crafted from cool, dry-farmed and certified organic vineyards. Our three varietals, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc, have achieved critical acclaim since our first vintage. We were thrilled to learn that the first wine we produced won the top honor, “Best in Show Red Wine,” in the largest and most prestigious wine competition in the country (The San Francisco International Wine Competition 2007). Current vintages continue to receive Gold medals and 90 to 96 point ratings from the Beverage Testing Institute, the World Wine Competition, San Francisco Chronicle, and San Francisco International Competitions.

Chateau St Jean Winery

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Sonoma Valley, the Chateau St. Jean estate offers wine lovers an idyllic getaway to soak in the Sonoma wine lifestyle. With incredible vineyard views, a dramatic mountain backdrop, lush gardens and the elegant 1920s chateau, our guests are invited to experience the award-winning Chateau St. Jean wine collection at their leisure, while enjoying the breathtaking ambience of the estate.Founded in 1973, Chateau St. Jean was conceived as a true fine wine estate in the European style, where wines from individual vineyards were kept separate to fully capture individual character of each site. The wines received immediate critical acclaim, and Chateau St. Jean was soon recognized as a leader in single vineyard designated wines.Today, our winemaker Margo Van Staaveren calls upon 35 years of vineyard and winemaking expertise at Chateau St. Jean to highlight the stunning vineyards we work with.

Cline Cellars

Cline Family Cellars is a family-owned and operated winery in Sonoma, California, built on a passion for winemaking and rooted in respect for the land.

Deerfield Ranch Winery

Family-owned and operated for over 37 years, Deerfield Ranch is a unique underground “cave” winery with a warm ambiance and a wide range of wines. Customizable flights of Rose, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel, and even a sparkling wine create a personalized experience. Deerfield is known for its “clean wine” with low histamines and sulfites and its ecological practices. Taste in the underground cave, learn about the barrels stored in their 20,000sqft underground facility, and see all of the production Crush Pad as you walk into your tasting.

Donum Estate

The Donum Estate is an exquisite wine estate in Sonoma. Spread across three vineyards namely Donum Ranch, Nugent and Anderson Valley, it is owned and curated by Anne Moller-Racke. Oenophiles can tour the picturesque property with their winemakers on appointment only and indulge in a sampling of their limited edition and heritage wines. They specialize in several varieties of Pinot Noir with a selection of Chardonnay as well.

Glen Lyon Vineyards

In 1986, Squire and Suzy Fridell packed up their three-year old daughter and all their worldly goods to trade the freeways and the sand of Southern California for the back roads and fertile soil of Sonoma Valley. They purchased twenty-six acres of raw land, just north of the Village of Glen Ellen. The gentle rolling hills were covered with poison oak, oak trees, manzanita trees, madrone trees, bay trees, and a few redwoods. They cut a few of the trees and put in a road, got poison oak, dug a well and brought in power, got more poison oak, built their Cottage, hand-planted two acres of grapevines, and got a lot more poison oak. After a year of Calamine lotion, itching, and cottage living, they got rid of most of the poison oak, built their new home on top of the hill, started building their winery, planted a second vineyard and created a new life for themselves.

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

Gundlach Bundschu is California’s oldest continuously family-owned winery, originally founded in 1858 by Jacob Gundlach. It is located 5 minutes from the historic Sonoma Plaza.. Today it is owned and operated by the 6th generation of Bundschu’s and known for being a place to bring families and to have fun. They specialize in making distinctive estate grown wines and typically showcase music on their property so you and your family can enjoy a fun-filled family experience. Beautiful grounds to picnic areas and plenty of places to walk around to see the history of the property are encouraged. They specialize in their red wines, but also showcase their chardonnays and roses. Many different tour offerings can be selected from a Pinzgauer tour to the historic winery tour. A lot is here to sample and see for the visitor and all ages.

Hamel Family Wines

Hamel Family Wines was founded in 2006 when George and Pamela Hamel bought this property in Kenwood that happened to come with an acre of vines. Eventually they bought another six acres which included more vines with the intent to get into the winemaking business. Located at the intersection of Madrone Road and Hwy 12 in Kenwood just outside Boyes Hot Springs near Sonoma, this winery is set back behind private gates with a long driveway leading to the main building of the winery where incredible views, massive windows and a modern terrace beckon you to explore the land. On a cool day they provide blankets to wrap around your legs as you watch the sunset and look down at their beautiful vineyards on the hillside. Serene and quiet you will relish in their cabernet sauvignon, Bordeaux varietal blends, zinfandel, Grenache, sauvignon blanc, and late harvest sauvignon blanc wines. The 12,000 foot cave features a private dining and tasting room. Very classy and private – this is an experience not to be missed!

Hanzell Vineyards

Hanzell Vineyards was founded by James David Zellerbach in 1943 when he acquired 200 acres in the Mayacamas Mountains in Sonoma. Zellerbach had a vision to produce the finest wines in the world. Today the wine can be matched with the finest in the world. The Brye family purchased the winery in 1975 and still own it today. This property is a winery but also a working and active farm with sheep, pigs, chickens, geese, turkeys, vegetable gardens, and fruit orchards. Hanzell specializes in Chardonnay and Pinot’s. You can take a ride around the rolling property or go to the cellar for a tasting – either choice is a good one!

Homewood Winery

Homewood Winery is as close to a one man winery as David Homewood can keep it. Step by step through the vinification process he does as much of the work as he can. It is, therefore, a small operation limited to about 3,000 cases annual production. In a typical year we bottle up to ten separate batches and most of them are 300 cases or less.The mission of Homewood Winery is to remain small enough to maintain the hand-crafted approach to winemaking, and keep it fun. ENJOY!!

Honrama Cellars

Honrama Cellars stands out as a respected winery in Napa, California. Established in 2008 by Juan and Miriam Ramirez, they're known for crafting top-quality wines, especially their rich and balanced Cabernet Sauvignon. The name "Honrama" pays tribute to Honorio Ramirez Mata, the family patriarch, symbolizing their collective passion and dedication to making outstanding wines.

Imagery Winery

Joe Benzinger founded Imagery Winery in the early 1980’s which is located in Glen Ellen just outside of Sonoma. The uniqueness of this winery is in the label – there is special artwork on every label from some of the most notable contemporary artists. There are over 500 artworks by over 300 artists, and about 60 on display in the winery. They are known for experimenting with new varietals while creating the perfect blend. Try their Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon on their green grass picnic areas or in one of their intimate tasting room settings on the property.

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards

The Jacuzzi trek to America started in 1907, when Valeriano and Francesco Jacuzzi, the second- and third-born sons of Giovanni and Teresa Jacuzzi, immigrated to Washington to work on the railroad. A warmer climate beckoned and the pair eventually made their way to southern California. Years later, they were joined by four other brothers and eventually all went to work in the aviation industry. Soon they would make American history

Karmen Estate Wines

Initially the fruit grown at Kamen Estate was sold to premium Sonoma wineries. In 1996, a devastating fire tore through the property destroying half of the vines along with Robert’s home. Where others would see this as a tremendous setback, Robert’s credo, “Everything happens for a reason”, held sway. The fire forced him to focus not on what had been lost, but on what could be gained. Out of the experience he decided to stop selling grapes and began to make his own wines. A major replanting began as soon as the ground cooled. Cutting edge viticultural techniques were employed, new selections of Cabernet clones were chosen and different rootstocks were used. The first release of Kamen Estate Cabernet Sauvignon was in 1999.

Kenwood Vineyards

A rich history paved the way for their philosophy and craft today. Established in the 1970s in the heart of Sonoma, they began winemaking long before the region’s AVAs were created. Their philosophy and craftsmanship are extensions of our rich history.

La Rochelle Winery

La Rochelle Winery was founded in 2005 by Steve Mirassou of the Mirassou family which is the oldest winemaking family in North America. It is located in the heart of the Sonoma Valley in Kenwood surrounded by rolling hills, big trees, and beautiful vineyards. A small family owned winery, they are known for their single vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varietals. Become educated on their small lot Pinot Noirs from ground up, including vineyard practices, site and clonal selection, fermentation, barrel aging strategies, blending, and the benefits of bottle aging.

Landmark Winery

Located at the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains on the corner of Highway 12 and Adobe Canyon Road in Sonoma Valley, we offer daily tasting featuring Landmark’s signature wines as well as small-production, winery-only Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. A romantic cottage & an airy suite with free in-room breakfast, wine at check-in & a tour & tasting.

Lasseter Family Wines

John Lasseter from Pixar and his wife Nancy founded Lasseter Family Winery in 2000. The estate property is located in Glen Ellen just outside the town of Sonoma. Nestled among beautiful trees and set into the hillside, the Lasseter’s have tried to incorporate all the elements of nature into their setting for unique wines. There are colonies of honeybees on the property, an eco-friendly winery building, beautiful revitalized pond, and organic farming practices alive and well in their vineyards. They are known for producing wines with a French accent encompassing a rich array of Bordeaux and Rhone-style grapes. They will provide you with a behind the scenes tour into the tank rooms, the crush pad, and even the winemaker’s laboratory if you want, or simply enjoy the views from their comfortable patio as you sample what they have to offer.

Little Vineyards

Little Vineyards Family Winery produces award winning Sonoma Valley wines. Our team is our family and our core purpose is a shared passion for our wine, music, and a sense of place we call home. We create world class wines with a Little Family feel.

Loxton Cellars

Nestled in the heart of Sonoma Valley, Loxton Cellars is a bustling winery with 5 acres of its own vineyard. Owner and winemaker, Chris Loxton, is dedicated to crafting wines of exceptional quality that capture the essence of the region, prioritizing balance and authenticity in every bottle.

Mayo Family Winery

Mayo Family Winery has a strong focus on crafting small-batch Single Vineyard wines, aiming to capture the essence of each grape variety from local vineyards. They typically produce fewer than 5000 cases annually, spanning various varietals. With a welcoming atmosphere, award-winning wines, and unique tasting experiences, they're delighted to share their passion with friends, family, and wine club members worldwide. Visitors are invited to join them for an unforgettable experience where they're treated like family.

Nicholson Ranch

Nicholson Ranch Winery, owned by a winemaker, sits on 40 acres along Highway 121 between Sonoma and Napa Valleys. It's uniquely located where Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Coast, Napa Valley, and Los Carneros meet. Operating as an Estate winery, they grow, make, and age their wine on-site, specializing in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with smaller batches of Merlot and Syrah. Their gravity-flow design, positioned above the caves, ensures the delicate flavors and aromas of their Estate wines are preserved.

Peter Cellars

Peter Cellars is a small, family-owned winery crafting top-notch wines. They blend the distinct terroir and fruit flavors from their Sonoma estate with traditional French winemaking methods to create exceptional quality.

Roche Winery

Continuing the legacy of Genevieve and Joseph, the family and staff at Roche take pride in providing a warm, genuine, and down-to-earth experience for everyone who comes to the tasting room.

In the heart of Sonoma wine country, Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery stands out with its historic charm. Their barrel room showcases antique redwood tanks and original winemaking tools, offering tours, tastings, and a grand event space. Sebastiani has been a leading producer of Sonoma County wine for almost 120 years.

At Ty Caton Vineyards, excellence starts in the Caton Vineyard, where winemaker Ty Caton practices sustainable farming on the hillside grapes used in his Moon Mountain District wine. Being one of the few exclusively estate producers in Sonoma Valley, Ty oversees the entire process from soil to glass, allowing him to create exceptional wines that truly reflect the vineyard's character.

VJB Cellars

In late 2010, they began transforming their ranch-style home into a beautiful Tuscan-style villa, complete with a tasting room, marketplace, deli, outdoor pizza kitchen, and a charming piazza. By mid-2012, VJB Vineyards and Cellars opened its doors, offering a remarkable selection of rare Italian varietals, alongside wood-fired pizzas and Maria's beloved home-style Italian dishes. Quickly, VJB became a beloved destination in Sonoma Valley.

Wellington cellars

In 2014, the Belmonte family acquired Wellington Vineyards. Henry and Vittorio took charge, rebranding and refining the wine style while scaling down production. This led to the birth of Wellington Cellars later in 2014, focusing on small-batch, handcrafted wines primarily from their 24-acre estate. Situated in the heart of Sonoma Valley, the winery and tasting room are surrounded by vineyards growing a variety of grapes.

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26 Top Sonoma Wineries to Visit

Sip world-class wines while enjoying vineyard and mountain views.

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Plan your next getaway to Sonoma County's beautiful wine country.

Northern California's Sonoma County is a dream destination for wine and food lovers. The area's diverse geography and multitude of microclimates provide an optimal environment for producing world-class, terroir-driven wines and bountiful local foods. Sonoma is home to more than 425 wineries and nearly 60,000 acres of vineyards that span 19 American Viticultural Areas from the Pacific Coast to the Mayacamas Mountains. In addition to wine tastings, many of these top Sonoma wineries host special events like dinners and live music performances. Read on to learn more about the delicious wines and inviting atmospheres offered in Sonoma's wine country.

[See more of Sonoma: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Francis Ford Coppola Winery: Geyserville

Chad Keig | Courtesy of Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Francis Ford and Eleanor Coppola purchased this 28-acre property in Alexander Valley in 2006. Inspired by Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens, filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola wanted to create a family-friendly, resort-like winery where guests could "celebrate the love of life." Accordingly, this property has something for everyone, including two swimming pools with private "cabines" (cabanas), a poolside cafe and dining with a view at Rustic. The property also boasts a gallery filled with movie memorabilia from Coppola's feature films, bocce ball courts, and other activities and amenities. As for the wine, reservations are highly recommended if you want to enjoy a 45-minute seated tasting flight on the terrace, while the 30-minute tasting on the main floor operates on a more casual first-come, first-serve basis.

Address: 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, CA 95441

Jordan Vineyard & Winery: Healdsburg

Matt Armendariz | Courtesy of Jordan Vineyard & Winery

The inspiration for Jordan Vineyard & Winery, founded in 1972 by Tom and Sally Jordan, came from France's food and wine culture. This stunning 1,200-acre property is set among the vineyards and rolling hills of the Alexander Valley. The winery chateau houses the winemaking operation, wine cellars, kitchen and other facilities; it's also one of the venues where you can sample the vineyard's notable cabernets and chardonnays. Tasting experiences include a winery walking tour with a seated wine and food pairing in the new French-inspired cellar room. A guided vineyard tasting includes two vintages of Russian River chardonnay and two vintages of Alexander Valley cabernet sauvignon paired with a selection of artisanal salumi and cheeses chosen by the winemaker – amid panoramic vineyard views. The wines you'll sample on a three-hour estate tour are accompanied by food pairings and an olive oil tasting, along with a light lunch. Keep in mind that reservations are required for all tastings.

Address: 1474 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Patz & Hall: Sonoma

Courtesy of Patz & Hall

Patz & Hall was founded in 1988 by a group of four friends with knowledge of and passion for winemaking. One of the founders, James Hall, has been at the helm of the winemaking program since its inception. The Sonoma House at Patz & Hall offers a picturesque setting to sample and appreciate its wines amid the vineyard and mountain views – as long as you have a reservation – while sipping a notable chardonnay or pinot noir. Select the casual Sonoma House tasting to try four single-vineyard wines as an introduction to the vineyard. The Sparkling & Still Flight tasting option includes its specialty wines – pinot noir and chardonnay – in both sparkling and single-vineyard vintages.

Address: 21200 8th Street E., Sonoma, CA 95476

Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens: Fulton

Courtesy of Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens

Kendall-Jackson is picturesquely situated in the heart of Sonoma County, surrounded by gardens and vineyards. The culinary gardens at the estate cover about 4 acres, producing rare, organic and sustainable vegetables, and microgreens for the estate – and for San Francisco's best chefs. The Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate also has a truffle orchard that produced the winery's first harvest of Périgord black truffles in 2017. Travelers can make a reservation to experience either the estate wine tasting or the wine and food pairing, which comes with seasonal ingredients sourced fresh from the on-site garden to complement limited-release wines. From spring through fall the winery also hosts a garden tour and tasting option that lets you sample the wines alongside harvested produce, as well as a farm-to-table dinner series.

Address: 5007 Fulton Road, Fulton, CA 95439

Martinelli Winery: Windsor

Courtesy of Martinelli Winery

The Martinelli family has been growing grapes and making wine in the Russian River Valley for more than 135 years, beginning with the arrival of Giuseppe Martinelli from Italy in the 1880s. This family operation, which farms and produces small-batch chardonnay, syrah, pinot noir and zinfandel, is best known for the latter two wines. Martinelli Winery offers several tasting experiences, with reservations strongly encouraged but not always required if space permits. Splurge on The Collector's Flight to sample exclusive and highly rated wines, or check out the Heritage Tasting, which is hosted in the historic Baler Bar and features a flight of the winery's single-vineyard chardonnay, pinot noir, and syrah or zinfandel. You may also enjoy a private estate walking tour that includes a tasting, or the seasonal Vineyard Terrace Tasting offered April to October.

Address: 3360 River Road, Windsor, CA 95492

Cline Family Cellars: Sonoma

Courtesy of Cline Cellars

Cline Family Cellars is a family-owned and -operated sustainable winery. Fred Cline began making wine in 1982 at a small ranch in Oakley, California, and then purchased a 350-acre horse farm in the Carneros region of Sonoma Valley in 1989. The ﬁrst vintages were from original plantings of ancient vines of mourvedre, zinfandel and carignane grapes. Other varietals now include syrah and viognier, as well as pinot noir, merlot, chardonnay and grenache. Reservations are recommended for the Sonoma Heartland Tasting, which includes a flight of Sonoma AVA-focused wines. For a real treat, rent a private garden cabana that comes with a provision basket and a bottle of wine: This two-hour bottle service experience with beautiful views of the Great Lawn requires a reservation and a minimum of four guests.

Address: 24737 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476

Dry Creek Vineyard: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Dry Creek Vineyard

Dry Creek Vineyard was established by David Stare in 1972. The winery considers itself one of the few remaining truly private, family-owned operations of its kind in Sonoma County; its 185-acres of land are certified sustainable and its wines are consistently highly rated. As the founder of the first new winery in Dry Creek Valley following Prohibition, Stare was the first winemaker to plant sauvignon blanc in the valley – and the first to produce a fume blanc in Sonoma County. He also initiated the process for Dry Creek Valley to become a wine appellation in 1983. Visitors to Dry Creek Vineyard can enjoy intimate seated tastings with a reservation. The approximately 1.5-hour visit includes learning about the family's history and winemaking philosophy while tasting single-vineyard and limited-production wines.

Address: 3770 Lambert Bridge Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Mauritson Wines: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Mauritson Wines

Mauritson Wines is famed for its zinfandel and cabernet sauvignon. The family of sheep ranchers and grape growers has been located in Dry Creek Valley since 1868; S.P. Hallengren, the great-great-great-grandfather of Mauritson Wines founder Clay Mauritson, planted his first vines in Sonoma County's Rockpile region in 1884. To accompany the family's long history of growing grapes, Clay Mauritson sought to add winemaking to the farming operation in the 1990s, debuting the winery's inaugural zinfandel in 1998. Today, signature flight tastings are available to visitors by reservation. The experience includes a tasting of the new releases along with insight into the wines and history of Mauritson's six-generation journey in the winemaking industry.

Address: 2859 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Keller Estate: Petaluma

Michael Ryan | Courtesy of Keller Estate

The Keller family began producing organically farmed estate wines 30 years ago at this picturesque locale in the Petaluma Gap region. The goal was to produce extraordinary, handcrafted wines that would express the unique soil, climate and topography of their property. Keller Estate is recognized for its limited production of pinot noirs and chardonnays, but visitors should also be sure to try the brut rose sparkling and Rôtie syrah blend wines. The winery offers an estate visit and tour by reservation only for a taste of five flagship wines (chardonnays, pinot noirs and syrah) and of Keller Estate olive oil. The property is pet- and family-friendly but does not allow picnicking.

Address: 5875 Lakeville Highway, Petaluma, CA 94954

Laurel Glen Vineyard: Glen Ellen

Laurel Glen's organic vineyards sit on the hillsides of Sonoma Mountain in the Sonoma Mountain area, one of the smallest AVAs with just 667 vineyard acres. The winery specializes in cabernet sauvignon but also makes a small-batch rose and sauvignon blanc. Two tastings are available by reservation in the Glen Ellen tasting room. The sampling of four current releases begins with either the Blanc Slate sauvignon blanc or Rosella rose, followed by three distinctive cabernet sauvignons from Sonoma Mountain. Visitors can also taste rare vintages of Laurel Glen Vineyard's cabernet sauvignons (spanning at least a decade) from the wine library in a separate tasting.

Address: 13750 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, CA 95442

Ledson Winery & Vineyards: Kenwood

Steve Ledson began construction on a house and a vineyard on this beautiful 21-acre Sonoma property in 1989. Ten years later, the 16,000-square-foot Gothic and French Normandy-style "castle" opened as Ledson Winery, surrounded by a 17-acre estate vineyard. The family also owns several other vineyards and produces more than 70 wines. Whether you opt for the Castle Selection tasting in one of three bar venues or the seated Vineyard Selection option, you'll enjoy handcrafted wines and recommendations from staff. Private wine tastings are held in individual suites and feature six top-rated wines. All tastings require advance reservations.

Address: 7335 state Route 12, Kenwood, CA 95409

Michel-Schlumberger Wine Estate: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Michel-Schlumberger Benchland Estate

In 1979, Switzerland-born Jean-Jacques Michel planted the original vines at what is now the 100-acre Michel-Schlumberger Wine Estate. Situated less than 20 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the property spans more than 88 acres of benchland vineyards: strips of level land with steep slopes above and below the vineyards. The winery produces more than 15 varietals, including its signature cabernet sauvignon, syrah, merlot and chardonnay. The Spanish mission-style property, located in Dry Creek Valley, is open for seated estate tastings by reservation only. You'll have the chance to sample four limited-production wines in the tasting salon for about 90 minutes.

Address: 4155 Wine Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

MacRostie Winery & Vineyards: Healdsburg

Kathryn MacDonald | Courtesy of MacRostie Winery & Vineyards

MacRostie Winery & Vineyards was founded by Steve MacRostie in 1987. With winemaker Heidi Bridenhagen, MacRostie produces chardonnay and pinot noir made from grapes sourced from 21 chardonnay vineyards and more than 17 pinot noir sites. These include MacRostie's Thale's Estate Vineyard in the Russian River Valley and the new 74-acre Nightwing Estate Vineyard in the acclaimed Petaluma Gap region. While the MacRostie Estate House is situated in Sonoma County's Russian River Valley, the winery's vineyard program has sites in Green Valley, Carneros, Fort Ross-Seaview, Redwood Valley, Anderson Valley, Santa Maria Valley and Petaluma Gap. Guests can book a seated tasting experience with vineyard and valley views at the estate house (by reservation) that includes information on their vineyards and winemaking process. The experience also features five wines highlighting the single-vineyard chardonnays and pinot noirs from the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast.

Address: 4605 Westside Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Iron Horse Vineyards: Sebastopol

Courtesy of Iron Horse Vineyards

Iron Horse Vineyards is a small, family-owned estate winery located in Green Valley, part of the Russian River Valley. Audrey and Barry Sterling fell in love with the picturesque setting in 1976 and purchased the 300 acres two weeks later. The winery is known for its sparkling wines – a favorite at the White House for the last six presidential administrations – and particularly its chardonnay and pinot noir. Guests can sample these wines at Iron Horse's outdoor "tasting room," which features panoramic views across Sonoma County with Mount Saint Helena in the distance. All winery visits and tastings are by appointment only.

Address: 9786 Ross Station Road, Sebastopol, CA 95472

Rodney Strong Vineyards: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Rodney Strong Vineyards

Rodney Strong, an American dancer, decided to pursue his dream of winemaking when he purchased a 160-acre vineyard in Windsor in 1961. He was the first winemaker to produce a single-vineyard Alexander Valley cabernet sauvignon. The current owners, the Klein family, bought the winery in 1989 with the goal of using sustainable farming and winemaking practices to produce premium wines. Rodney Strong has 11 estate vineyards across four AVAs: seven in Alexander Valley, two in Chalk Hill, one in the Russian River Valley and one in Northern Sonoma County. The tasting room offers indoor and seasonal outdoor wine tastings by appointment; patrons can sample a handcrafted flight such as the Rodney Strong Flight, which features five wines. You'll have the option to add on certain food pairings, including a cheese and charcuterie box, when you make your reservation. The winery also hosts special events, including a summer concert series that features acts like Blues Traveler.

Address: 11455 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, CA 95448

J Vineyards & Winery: Healdsburg

Courtesy of J Vineyards & Winery

J Vineyards & Winery is located in Sonoma's Russian River Valley and boasts three distinct venues where wine aficionados can experience both estate wines and culinary offerings. The J Bubble Room offers an inventive Sonoma-inspired five-course wine and food pairing menu. Legacy Lounge tastings highlight small-production wines with an optional artisan cheese pairing. The Signature Bar Tasting features five sparkling and varietal wines from the Russian River Valley. J Vineyards also hosts events such as "Shifting the Lens," a limited culinary series that offers special dinners and wine pairings with guest chefs in summer 2022. All of the tastings, pairings and events require a reservation.

Address: 11447 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery

Don and Rhonda Carano acquired land in the Alexander Valley AVA and founded Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery in 1981. The winery's first wines were released six years later – a 1985 Alexander Valley chardonnay and 1986 fume blanc. The 24 certified sustainable vineyards now produce more than 20 white, red and dessert wines. Travelers will want to set aside several hours for visiting this beautiful Tuscan-inspired property. Visitors can wander through the 5 acres of gardens that surround Villa Fiore, the hospitality center, then enjoy a reserve wine tasting in the Enoteca (the "wine library") in the cellar of Villa Fiore: This flight of five limited-release and reserve wines requires a reservation. Ferrari-Carano Vineyards also offers a classic tasting indoors or outside by appointment. For a special celebration, reserve a spot for La Colazione Italiana, a Sunday brunch and wine experience. The Italian-style menu features a selection of brunch favorites prepared with seasonal ingredients from the estate gardens, a sweet ending to the meal and a flight of reserve wines.

Address: 8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Arrowood Vineyards & Winery: Glen Ellen

Arrowood has been producing Bordeaux-inspired Sonoma County cabernet sauvignon from organic and sustainable vineyards since 1986. Founder Richard Arrowood would search for the most distinctive and terroir-driven vineyards across Sonoma to create his wines – and that tradition continues today. The winery also produces a red blend, Knights Valley malbec, Carneros chardonnay, Saralee's Vineyard viognier and Alexander Valley sauvignon blanc. The winery is open daily and offers tastings by appointment. The Portfolio Tasting introduces guests to a sampling of Arrowood's red and white wines, while the Reserve Tasting showcases its single-vineyard and reserve wines. Visitors are allowed to bring a picnic lunch to the property's Winemaker Veranda, where you can soak in views of the vineyards and estate; call ahead to reserve a table.

Address: 14347 state Route 12, Glen Ellen, CA 95442

Ridge Vineyards: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Ridge Vineyards

Ridge Vineyards is known primarily for its red wines – particularly its cabernet sauvignon and zinfandel – but also produces a small amount of chardonnay. Its Lytton Springs Winery in Dry Creek Valley is surrounded by 115-year-old ancient vines. This sustainable winery is unique in that the building is made of vineyard clay and bales of straw and largely solar-powered. The seated estate tasting at Lytton Springs offers a sampling of five single-vineyard wines with an incredible view of the property. The Century Tour & Library Tasting takes guests around the vineyards while you learn about the history of the estate; current release and older vintage wines are served in a seated tasting at the conclusion of the visit. A seated private tasting of Ridge's renowned Monte Bello cabernet sauvignon features other wines from its Monte Bello vineyard. An optional charcuterie, cheese and olive board can be purchased to pair with some tastings, all of which require reservations.

Address: 650 Lytton Springs Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Chalk Hill Estate: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Chalk Hill Estate

This beautiful 1,300-acre property was first seen from the air as founder Fred Furth flew his plane over the Russian River in 1972. After viewing the land more closely, he knew the terrain and climate were ideal for growing world-class wine grapes. Chalk Hill Estate is now home to 300 acres of vineyards and a winery, in addition to a hospitality center, a culinary garden, stables, an equestrian center and wilderness areas. Chalk Hill Estate offers guests a Vineyard Overlook Experience with scenic tastings of estate wines by appointment. Visitors can also book a guided tour of the estate in a Hummer, which also includes a walk through its culinary gardens and ends with a wine and food pairing.

Address: 10300 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery: Jenner

Perched atop a coastal ridge along the rugged Sonoma Coast and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the 55 vineyard acres in the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA sit at about 920 to 1800 feet above sea level in what is called a distinct "coastal cool" wine-growing area. The winery owners, Lester and Linda Schwartz, purchased the stunning 976 coastal acres in 1988, only farming the grasslands, leaving the pristine forests and meadows untouched. This area is set apart from other Sonoma Coast AVAs by its elevation and proximity to the ocean, creating an optimal environment for farming pinot noir and chardonnay vineyards. Visitors who make an appointment can take the picturesque coastal drive to the winery to sample four of its estate wines paired with small bites prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Address: 15725 Meyers Grade Road, Jenner, CA 95450

Buena Vista Winery: Sonoma

Scott Chebegia | Courtesy of Buena Vista Winery

Founded in 1857 in Sonoma by Hungarian farmer, vintner and business owner Agoston Haraszthy, Buena Vista considers itself California's first premium winery. Haraszthy, the self-proclaimed "Count of Buena Vista," is regarded as one of California's best-known and most flamboyant viticulturalists. Today, the original winery – set in the Mayacamas Mountains in Sonoma Valley – is a California Historic Landmark. You can visit this beautiful property, now owned by winemaker Jean-Charles Boisset, to tour the winery and sample vintages in the original tasting room. There are several experiences available to reserve at Buena Vista. Take a step back in time while sipping Champagne and sparkling wines at the Bubble Lounge, or opt for the barrel tasting and tour, which includes a walk through the property's grounds, a visit to the renovated Champagne Cellar, a flight of current-release wines and a sampling of wine from a barrel. For a real treat, splurge on the seated Grand Reserve Tasting.

Address: 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, CA 95476

Ram's Gate Winery: Sonoma

The Tasting Room Bar at Ram's Gate Winery.

Courtesy of Ram's Gate Winery

Founded in 2011, this 28-acre estate sits on a hill at the convergence of Napa and Sonoma counties and San Francisco Bay. The property is also located across three AVAs: Sonoma Coast, Carneros and Sonoma Valley. Guests can visit the picturesque winery and enjoy views of the organic vineyards while sampling estate varietals like pinot noir and chardonnay, in addition to the wines produced from other vineyards. Ram's Gate Winery's tasting experiences include a casual flight of four wines at the tasting bar, which requires a minimum of two guests. For a more immersive experience, a seasonal wine and food pairing provides more information about the farming and winemaking techniques at the estate. Caviar and Champagne aficionados will want to reserve a spot for the winery's Caviar Experience: This tasting allows you to select either the reserve or golden caviar, complemented by Ram's Gate's traditional sparkling wine and two still wines.

Address: 28700 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476

Hamel Family Wines: Sonoma

Exterior of vineyard and building at Hamel Family Wines.

Courtesy of Hamel Family Wines

The Hamel family's wine adventure began with Pam and George Hamel Jr.'s 2006 purchase of a home in Kenwood in Sonoma Valley with an acre of cabernet sauvignon vines. Now the Hamels make limited-production cabernet sauvignon, cabernet blends and other varietals at their beautiful 124-acre property, estate house and winery about 5 miles north of Sonoma Town Square. The four estate vineyards, located in the Sonoma Valley and Moon Mountains District AVAs, are certified biodynamic and organic. To immerse yourself in the family's winemaking practices, book the Estate Experience for a private tour of the vineyard, winery and wine cave. Afterward, guests will engage in a seated tasting of four estate series wines and a light snack with views of Sonoma Mountain and the valley. The Reserve Experience includes a multicourse food and wine pairing. Hamel Family Wines also offers a Collectors' Experience, which combines an informative tour with a private tasting in the cave of several reserve wines and a culinary accompaniment from the chef. These options all require an appointment.

Address: 15401 state Route 12, Sonoma, CA 95476

Matanzas Creek Winery: Santa Rosa

Nestled in the quiet – and beautiful – Bennett Valley AVA of Sonoma County, Matanzas Creek is known primarily for its sauvignon blanc and merlot. The winery, launched in 1977, farms sustainable estate vineyards that also produce small lots of Bordeaux-style red wines, pinot noir and chardonnay. For a casual visit, the winery offers picnic tables and bocce ball court rentals and bottle service with a reservation. The Matanzas Creek Comparative Tasting, another option by reservation, gives you time to explore the stunning lavender fields, vineyards and gardens, followed by a tasting of five wines. You can also reserve the Collectors Tasting to try six wines and compare current releases to the library vintages.

Address: 6097 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404

Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards: Sonoma

José Ferrer moved with his wife, Gloria, from Barcelona to Sonoma, California, in the 1980s, bringing his family's expertise in Spanish sparkling wine to the region. In 1984, the Ferrers planted the initial 50 acres of pinot noir and chardonnay vines in Carneros, opening the winery two years later. Carneros straddles Sonoma and Napa, and the impact of the maritime effects of San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean creates the environment for a long growing season – and the optimal terroir to produce sparkling wines. Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards in 2016 was certified as sustainable. The estate comprises a total of 335 acres spanning two ranches, and guests can visit the winery and sample its sparkling wines with a selection of reservable tours and tastings. The classic experience takes place outdoors in the vista pavilion and includes four wines, with optional food add-ons available for purchase. To learn about the history, sustainability and winemaking methods, Gloria Ferrer's agricultural tour lets guests explore the vineyards by club car and enjoy a five-course food and wine pairing on the terrace.

Address: 23555 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476

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Best Wineries for First-Time Visitors

Best Sonoma Wineries for First-Time Visitors.

Sonoma County wineries are anticipating a new beginning with the recent easing of pandemic restrictions. So, with spring around the corner and things looking up (fingers crossed they stay that way), this is a great time to explore vineyards, tasting rooms and winery patios at some of the more than 425 wineries in Sonoma County. Here is a short list of the ones that are close to the town of Sonoma:

Buena Vista for a taste of history:

Founded in 1857 by Agoston Haraszthy, Buena Vista Winery is the second-oldest winery in California and a worthwhile destination for history buffs. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the winery is currently owned by the Boisset Collection and underwent a renovation in 2012. Choose the tour and you’ll catch a glimpse of the renovated Champagne Cellars and historic wine caves, followed by a wine flight in the Press House or outdoor courtyard. The Wine Tool Museum is slated to reopen this summer. Tastings from $25. Open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday; and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, 800-926-1266

See more about Buena Vista

Gundlach Bundsch – Go for the day

Gundlach Bundschu, Sonoma: Established in 1858, Gundlach Bundschu is one of the oldest family-owned wineries in California, with a sprawling 320-acre property at the intersection of four appellations: Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Coast, Carneros and Napa Valley. Today, the winery combines tastings of their sustainable, small-lot, coastal-influenced wines with a laid-back vibe that encourages extended lounging. Don’t worry: You can buy prepared sandwiches, salads, charcuterie boards and other treats, so you won’t go hungry.Wine cave and vineyard tours are available, too. Before you go, check their events calendar for upcoming live music performances held in their outdoor amphitheater. Tastings from $40. Open 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily; reservations required.

See more about Gundlach Bundschu

This story is an excerpt taken from “Best Sonoma Wineries for First-Time Visitors, 2022 Edition” published in Sonoma Magazine, March 2022. It was written by Sarah Doyle. For the full story, see here:

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1 Scribe Winery

2 Buena Vista Winery

3 Gundlach Bundschu Winery

4 roche winery, 5 bartholomew estate winery, 6 anaba wines, 7 robledo family winery, 8 meadowcroft wines, 9 three sticks wines at the adobe, 10 platypus wine tours in sonoma, 11 wine country cyclery, popular road trips from sonoma, what's the weather like in sonoma.

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Unique harvest experiences in Sonoma County

During harvest season, everyone wants a glimpse of the action.

People from near and far flock to Wine Country to see the spectacle — and snap selfies against a bucolic backdrop, grape clusters heavy on the vines. They want to capture the joy amid the flurry of activities, as winemakers, growers and crews work day and night picking and crushing grapes.

It’s an exhilarating experience, for visitors and locals alike. The smell of harvest alone is transcendental — it’s as potent as if sitting in a steam room with a punch bowl of fermenting grapes.

If you’re among the many who want special access to the grape — that bossy diva calling the shots during harvest — we’ve got just the ticket.

A day camp for wine-lovers

Trombetta Family Wines in Forestville will entertain wine-loving adults for a day on Sept. 28.

The fun begins at 9 a.m. with freshly brewed coffee, tea and owner Rickey Trombetta’s “almost famous” cinnamon rolls.

Then, equipped with bucket and clippers, wine campers will head out in the vineyard to harvest Pinot Noir grapes, guided by winemaker Erica Stancliff (Rickey Trombetta’s daughter).

Campers will learn the signs that tell winemakers grapes are ready for harvest, including that the leaves on the grapevine are starting to turn yellow, the grape skins are soft and taste sweet rather than bitter, and the stem from a bunch of grapes is turning brown.

They will taste the grapes off the vine, using their flavor to try to determine if grapes are ready to pick, and learn how to discern between primary and secondary crop (the primary crop are grapes nearest the cordon, the horizontal extension of the main trunk of the grapevine. The secondary crop are the grapes further out in the canes, mature shoots that are made of woody tissue).

They will also use a so-called refractometer, a hand-held tool that measures the sugar-to-water ratio in the grapes on a scale from 0 to 32 Brix — a Brix level in the low- to mid-20s is usually an indication that grapes are ready to pick.

After picking, the grapes will be put through the winery’s home press to start the fermentation process. Campers will then break for a barbecue lunch with produce from Trombetta’s expansive vegetable garden. The day will be capped off with a tasting of Trombetta Family Wines.

The Trombetta Family Wine Camp is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 28. Tickets are $135 per person and can be purchased at trombettawines.com. Directions are sent before the event.

Quality time with a winemaker

Flagging down a winemaker with questions about the vineyard and the harvest process is a rare feat during the busiest time of the year.

But at Small Vines Wines in Sebastopol, a 90-minute guided vineyard walk and tasting gives access to winemaker Paul Sloan. During harvest, he works between 12 and 20 hours each day but still manages to find the time to chat with visitors, sharing his wealth of knowledge and his pioneering approach to regenerative viticulture.

The private tasting portion of the experience takes place in the winery’s tasting room, with views of its organically farmed vineyard and newly renovated historic wine barn. Guests will taste between five and seven limited-production wines, including library and single vineyard Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays that are 100% estate farmed and crafted.

The Small Vines Wines Private Tasting with a Primary is $100 per person for parties of six and less, and $125 per person for seven to 10 people. Guests need to register at smallvines.com/register in order make an appointment.

The sights and sounds of Wine Country

Harvest is about more than just picking grapes. It’s about using all your senses to truly soak up the experience.

At Medlock Ames’ Bell Mountain Ranch in Healdsburg, guests can take in the sights, sounds, scents and tastes of Wine Country through a self-guided audio tour that guides visitors through the vineyard estate and, finally, to the tasting room.

The winery’s 90-minute Immersive Sound Experience is a soundscape recorded at the property by local composer and sound artist Hugh Livingston. It is GPS-cued, playing a particular part of the recording at a particular location through headphones provided by the winery.

Narrated by co-founder Ames Morison, winemaker Abby Watt and a handful of staff, the recording includes stories about the winery and its approach to organic, sustainable farming and land preservation. It also stars a supporting cast that includes resident wildlife, like acorn woodpeckers and barn owls.

The Immersive Sound Experience, like a museum audio guide but outdoors, takes guests on a 1-mile journey throughout the 338-acre property. The expansive estate includes 47 acres of certified organic vineyards, 650 olive trees, an orchard and a market garden for seasonal vegetables and flowers.

The tour concludes with a tasting of five estate wines.

The Bell Mountain Immersive Sound Experience is $75 per person. Reservations can be made at medlockames.com.

A taste of history

Experiencing harvest to the fullest also involves some time travel.

The history of wine in Sonoma County dates back to the early 19th century , when Russian fur traders and farmers planted grapevines along the Pacific coastline in Fort Ross.

Starting with a small crop, the amount of grapevines in the region increased dramatically after Spanish Franciscan priest José Altimira founded the Mission San Francisco Solano in 1823 and planted grapevines there, as many as 1,000 by 1824.

European immigrants continued to plant vineyards and make wine in Sonoma County, most notably the Hungarian nobleman Agoston Haraszthy, who founded Buena Vista Winery (18000 Old Winery Road) in 1857, the first premium winery in California.

You can get a taste of this rich history at a number of local wineries, including Gundlach Bundschu Winery in Sonoma (2000 Denmark St.), which was founded in 1858 by Bavarian-born Jacob Gundlach, who named the property Rhinefarm. Charles Bundschu, from Mannheim, Germany, joined the company in 1868 and, in 1875, became part of the family when he married Gundlach’s daughter Francisca. Six generations later, the winery remains family-owned.

Visitors to Gundlach Bundschu, or Gun Bun for short, can choose from a variety of experiences, including a vineyard and cave tour ($80), which includes “legendary stories” about the Bundschu family and their historic winery, or a tour of the property aboard a Swiss army transport vehicle, or Pinzgauer ($105), with stops and tastings along the route.

At Seghesio Family Vineyards in Healdsburg (700 Grove St.), the family farms Zinfandel grapevines planted at the winery’s Home Ranch Vineyard in 1895. They also maintain “the oldest blocks of Sangiovese in North America” in their Chianti Station Vineyard (these vines represent an heirloom clone that is otherwise extinct).

Their “Cellar Explorations” ($60) — a “behind-the-scenes tour and tasting” — allows guests to explore the winemaking process “from grape to glass.” It includes a tour of the winery crush pad, fermentation hall and barrel cellar, and concludes with a seated tasting of the winery’s Zinfandels and Italian heritage wines.

At Saini Vineyards in Healdsburg (2507 Dry Creek Road), guests can get a taste of history during a 45-minute vineyard walk ($30) — guided by a Saini family member.

The Saini family are fifth generation grape growers and have been farming land in Dry Creek Valley for more than 100 years. They even made and sold their grapes as sacrament wine to the Catholic church during Prohibition. Many of the grapevines at this property date back to the 1930s. The family-owned winery specializes in small-lot wines, made with estate-grown grapes.

For more harvest experiences, visit the website of Sonoma County Winegrowers at sonomawinegrape.org and Sonoma County Tourism at sonomacounty.com .

You can reach wine writer Peg Melnik at 707-521-5310 or [email protected]. On X (Twitter) @pegmelnik.

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IMAGES

9 Fantastic Sonoma Winery Tours
Best Wine Cave Tours in Sonoma
Best Wine Cave Tours in Sonoma
Best Wine Cave Tours in Sonoma
The 10 Most Beautiful Wineries in Sonoma County
Sonoma Wine Caves

COMMENTS

12 Wine Caves You Can Visit in Sonoma County
Bella Vineyards and Wine Caves, Healdsburg. Located in the heart of Dry Creek Valley, Bella is a small, family-owned winery with nearly 7,000 square feet of caves tucked beneath the estate's prized Lily Hill vineyard.Completed in December 2003, the caves provide 5,200 square feet of barrel storage and working space, plus 1,500 square feet of entertainment space.
The 9 Best Winery Tours in Sonoma County
Here are some of the best wine tours in Sonoma County. 1. Pure Luxury Transportation, Petaluma. Pure Luxury Transportation. Explore Wine Country in style with Pure Luxury Transportation, one of the most well-known wine tour operators in Northern California. They offer a variety of guided excursions, including the Sonoma Valley Experience Wine ...
The Best Wineries (and More) to Visit in Sonoma Right Now
B. Wise Vineyards. When asked about her favorite Sonoma County wineries, Alexis Kandanes, general manager of Bricoleur Vineyards in Windsor, says, "Of course, Bricoleur is my favorite, but the cave tour at B. Wise is something you don't want to miss. It's truly a surprising and delightful experience.".
Sip Wine and Stay Cool in These Sonoma County Wine Caves
During the Barrel Tasting and Winery Tour, guests learn about the founder of the historic winery, Count Agoston Haraszthy, and try four to five wines, including a barrel tasting in the cave. The tour is offered Monday through Thursday at 1 p.m. $40 per person. 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, 800-926-1266.
9 Fantastic Sonoma Winery Tours
Insider tip: For those who would like something a little less bumpy, "Gun Bun" also offers a cave tour that will take you underground for a tour and tasting in their cave. 2000 Denmark Street, Sonoma, CA 95476, (707) 938-5277. Enjoy a wine tasting or olive tasting at McEvoy Ranch. Photo Courtesy of the winery.
9 Underground Wine Caves Open for Tastings in Napa + Sonoma
In their 90-minute experience, wine educators take guests underground for a tasting of five estate cabernet sauvignons—including the Pine Ridge Vineyards flagship wine, Fortis—in one of Napa Valley's best cave tours ($95/person or $76/members, reservations required). // 5901 Silverado Trail (Napa), pineridgevineyards.com. Schramsberg Vineyards.
35 Best Sonoma Wineries & Wine Tasting Tours for 2024
18596 Lomita Ave, Sonoma. 707-996-3860. Why Guests Love It: Rustic Buildings, Bio-Farming, Stellar Pinot Noir. To experience Hanzell is to experience expertise. From the emphasis on farming to the gorgeous rustic tasting barn, Hanzell offers some of the best of Sonoma.
The 15 Best Sonoma Wineries To Visit
Rated among The 7 Best Sonoma County Wine Tours by Winecountry.com and USA Today Readers Choice Awards winner of the Best Winery Tour, a visit to Benziger is not complete without an in-depth tour of the biodynamically farmed estate. ... a garden of plants that attract beneficial insects, the wine cave, and see the Scottish Highlander cattle and ...
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
From culinary pairings to extended tirage selections to vineyard excursions, we look forward to sharing our Sonoma-grown wines with you and telling our story of how our passion for sparkling wine all began. To help us best prepare for your visit, kindly note that with the exception of registered service animals, pets are not permitted in the ...
The 14 Most Beautiful Wineries in Sonoma County, California (+ Map!)
If you are looking for a grand wine castle in Sonoma County, look no further than Ledson Winery. The Gothic, French-Normandy structure is 16,000 square feet in size and complete with turrets, balconies, slate tile roof, and an elegant brick exterior. The castle at Ledson Winery, seen from the back.
Wine Caves of Sonoma
Buena Vista Winery. Buena Vista Winery is the birthplace of the California wine movement, founded in 1857 by Count Agoston Haraszthy. Just five minutes from Sonoma's charming plaza, a visit to the historic Buena Vista Winery can include the chance to see the caves that were hand-dug out of the mountains more than 150 years ago.
Best Wine Cave Tours in Sonoma
Best Wine Cave Tours in Sonoma. March 26, 2019 March 21, 2019 by Nolan Plant. One of the "Must Do" experiences of wine tasting is venturing into a wine cave. There is a wonderful musty smell and an ambiance you don't see anywhere else. The cool temperatures in a cave are a shock to the system and it is a great escape from the summer heat!
A Guide to Sonoma's Best Winery Experiences, Part 1
Outside the city limits of Sonoma, family-run Gun-Bun, as it's fondly known, has been onsite since 1858, when the property was called Rhinefarm. Fun and down to earth in style, the winery offers cave tours, Pinzgauer army vehicle excursions, outdoor concerts and plenty of picnic areas.
10 Best Sonoma County Wine Tours
You can't go wrong with any of these 10 wine tours, all of which will show you another side of Sonoma, and maybe even of yourself. Best for the Winery Newcomer: Beau Wine Tours. Best for the Kid at Heart: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley. Best for the Person Who Wants It All: North Bay Wine Tours. Best for the Party Planner: California Wine Tours.
10 Unique Winery Experiences in Sonoma Wine Country
French, Italian and Spanish accents abound at Sonoma and Napa wineries, so a visit to Walter Schug's German-styled winery in Carneros is as refreshing as a trocken riesling. Schug Carneros Estate Winery. Schug, who died in 2015 at age 80, grew up at Staatsweingut Assmannshausen in Germany's Rhine Valley.
Best Wine Caves in Sonoma County
BENZIGER FAMILY WINERY. 1883 London Ranch Road. Glen Ellen, CA 95442. (707) 935-3000. Open Thursday-Monday. Sister Winery Of. Our wines and website are intended for adults of legal drinking age. By Entering our site, you verify that you are of legal drinking age. ©2024 Benziger Family Winery.
The 7 Best Sonoma County Winery Tours
Sonoma, CA 95476. (707) 938-5277. TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 224 reviews. Nestled in the Mayacamas foothills, Gundlach Bundschu Winery has been family-owned for over 150 years and through six generations of Gundlachs. The winery specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, but they also make quite a few other varieties, including ...
The Top 5 Sonoma Wine Tours in Sonoma County
Explore the quintessence of Sonoma County's wine culture with our curated selection of the top 5 Sonoma County wine tours. Delve into the rich tapestry of vineyards, tasting rooms, and scenic landscapes as you indulge in the finest varietals this renowned region has to offer. ... Best of Sonoma 2023 2022 Get Verified. Shop Sonoma. Open Menu ...
The Best Wineries to Visit in Sonoma
Courtesy of Chalk Hill Estate Winery. The terrace at Chalk Hill Estate Winery is perhaps one of the most picturesque places in Sonoma County to taste wine. It overlooks the 1,300-acre estate's ...
Tours of Wineries in Sonoma
A small, family-owned enterprise making limited-production wines from their certified organic vineyard in the Napa Carneros. Winery Region. Carneros Wineries, Sonoma Valley Wineries. Winery Phone Number. 707-721-1914. Winery Address. 5 E Napa St, Sonoma, CA 95476. Winery Tags. Art Element, Family Owned, Organic.
26 Top Sonoma Wineries to Visit
Select the casual Sonoma House tasting to try four single-vineyard wines as an introduction to the vineyard. The Sparkling & Still Flight tasting option includes its specialty wines - pinot noir ...
Best Wineries for First-Time Visitors
Choose the tour and you'll catch a glimpse of the renovated Champagne Cellars and historic wine caves, followed by a wine flight in the Press House or outdoor courtyard. The Wine Tool Museum is slated to reopen this summer. Tastings from $25. Open 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday; and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 18000 Old ...
The 11 best wine tours in Sonoma
Get inspired for your trip to Sonoma with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here: We've collected the most-often-mentioned 11 places from other articles, including favorites like Scribe Winery, Buena Vista Winery, and Gundlach Bundschu Winery.
Unique winery experiences in Sonoma
European immigrants continued to plant vineyards and make wine in Sonoma County, most notably the Hungarian nobleman Agoston Haraszthy, who founded Buena Vista Winery (18000 Old Winery Road) in ...
Unique winery experiences in Sonoma
Many of the grapevines at this property date back to the 1930s. The family-owned winery specializes in small-lot wines, made with estate-grown grapes. For more harvest experiences, visit the website of Sonoma County Winegrowers at sonomawinegrape.org. You can reach wine writer Peg Melnik at 707-521-5310 or [email protected].

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35 Best Sonoma Wineries & Wine Tasting Tours for 2024

These are Some of the Best Wineries in Sonoma, Along with Recommended Wine Tours, Restaurants and Places to Stay in the Sonoma Wine Region This Year

Top Sonoma Wineries to Visit this Year

Hanzell Vineyards

Patz & Hall

Bedrock Wine Co.

Amapola Creek Vineyards & Winery

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

Merry Edwards Winery

Dutton-Goldfield Winery

Martinelli Vineyards & Winery

Ridge – Lytton Springs

Arnot-Roberts

Dry Creek Vineyard

Mauritson Wines

Unti Vineyards

Nalle Winery

Chalk Hill Estate Winery

Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery

Sonoma Wine Tours

Sonoma Restaurants To Try

HopMonk Tavern

El Dorado Kitchen & Cantina

The Swiss Hotel

the girl + the fig

Fern Bar in The Barlow

Gravenstein Grill

Underwood Bar and Bistro

Drake’s Sonoma Coast Cuisine

Excellent Sonoma Hotels

El Dorado Hotel

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa

The Lodge at Bodega Bay

Getting There

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Sonoma Wineries

Is Napa Valley or Sonoma better?

Is Sonoma more affordable than Napa?

What is the average wine tasting fee in Sonoma?

What is the best time of year to visit Sonoma wineries?

What is the best way to get around Sonoma wine country?

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The 15 Best Sonoma Wineries To Visit

1) Schug Carneros Estate (www.schugwinery.com) | Save on Schug tastings with the Priority Wine Pass

2) Sojourn Cellars (www.sojourncellars.com):

3) Pangloss Cellars (www.panglosscellars.com):

4) Auteur Wines (https://www.auteurwines.com):

5) Three Sticks Wines (www.threestickswines.com):

6) Kamen Estate Wines (www.kamenwines.com):

7) B Wise (www.bwisevineyards.com) | Save on B Wise tastings with the Priority Wine P ass

8) Inman Family Wines (www.inmanfamilywines.com):

9) Two Shepherds (www.twoshepherds.com):

10) MacRostie Winery and Vineyard (www.macrostiewinery.com):

11) Jordan Winery ( www.jordanwinery.com ):

12. Pedroncelli Winery (https://www.pedroncelli.com)

13. ACORN Winery (https://acornwinery.com)

14. Benziger Family Winery (https://www.benziger.com)

15. Ram’s Gate Winery (https://ramsgatewinery.com)

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