Today many families are vacationing in Sonoma County, and Mom and Dad don’t want to give up the chance to spend the day tasting the wines that made the area famous just because the kiddos are on the trip too. Thankfully, even though wine might be for adults only, many Sonoma County wineries have estates and tasting rooms that are family-friendly.

Here are our favorite kid-friendly wineries in Sonoma to swirl, sip, and enjoy great wine that not only allow kids, but have a few surprises on property to keep them entertained, too.

Benziger Family Winery

Courtesy of Benziger | Carley Burns

This family winery uses Biodynamic farming processes to produce award-winning, organic wines. Located in Glen Ellen on Sonoma Mountain, Benziger’s Tractor Tram tour is one of the most kid-friendly vineyard tours in Sonoma County. The 75-minute adventure takes guests on a tractor tour of the vineyard to learn about the sustainable farming processes. Afterwards parents can enjoy a sampling of four limited production wines.

St. Francis Winery

Courtesy of St. Francis | Erica Gomez

For over 50 years St. Francis Winery & Vineyards has been wowing the wine world. From planting the first merlot grapes in Sonoma Valley, to the certified sustainable wines it makes today, the Santa Rosa estate is a favorite of visitors. Kids will be enchanted with the bell tower on property where a 1,000-pound Italian cast bronze bell rings out on the hour. Children are welcome to accompany parents as they enjoy the classic wine tasting.

Seghesio Family Vineyards

Courtesy of Seghesio Family Vineyards

Since planting its first vines in 1895, Seghesio Family Vineyards has been known for some of the top zinfandel in Sonoma County, along with interesting Italian varietals. A family-friendly way to visit the winery is with the Bocce & Bottles experience. Mom and Dad can enjoy a bottle while the family plays a high-stakes game of bocce ball.

Francis Ford Coppola

Courtesy of Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville has created a Hollywood dream wine experience for families. Owned by the iconic movie director, Francis Ford Coppola, the extensive estate offers kid-friendly delights at every turn. Older children will enjoy simply walking through the tasting room looking at all of the movie memorabilia, including an original Tucker automobile, Don Corleone’s desk from the Godfather, and Oscar statues. The family-friendly winery offers a truly unique experience with its pool and cabine reservations. With two swimming pools on the estate, families can book a private cabine that includes pool passes, lounge chairs, and a private shower. The kids can swim and the parents can enjoy a summertime sip of the Sofia rosé.

Imagery Estate Winery

Courtesy of Imagery | Carley Burns

A side project of winemaker Joe Benziger, Imagery Estate Winery in Glen Ellen focuses on art and fun. Each bottle is adorned with art commissioned for the winery. While most experiences are reserved for adults only, the kids can tag along for a wine tasting at the bar or during a bottle-service picnic table reservation, available for groups up to eight. After a wine tasting, enjoy the estate’s many kid-friendly outlets, including bocce ball, giant jenga, and cornhole.

Hook & Ladder

Courtesy of Hook & Ladder

Started by San Francisco firefighter Cecil De Loach and his wife Christine, Hook & Ladder pays homage to firefighters worldwide. The Santa Rosa family-friendly winery is known for estate bottlings of pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, and Bordeaux blends. Inside the winery the kids will enjoy looking at all the different fire station T-shirts decorating the walls, and outside at the classic red trucks. Bocce ball and cornhole can keep the kids amused while Mom and Dad enjoy an outdoor tasting.

DeLoach Vineyards

Courtesy of DeLoach Vineyards

In addition to creating Hook & Ladder, Cecil De Loach founded his namesake vineyard, DeLoach Vineyards. The winery is known as a pioneer producer of pinot noir, chardonnay, and zinfandel in Sonoma County. The family-friendly winery appeals to kids because of its Theater of Nature experience. On this self-guided tour families will wind through the 20-acre organic farm seeing a culinary garden and composting area, and most fun for kids, the vineyards’ chickens, sheep, and goats. For a unique tasting for the adults, select the Burgundy and Sonoma tasting that compares the pinot noir and chardonnay of California to the same grapes grown in France.

Buena Vista Winery

Courtesy of Buena Vista Winery

Founded in 1857, Buena Vista Winery is the oldest commercial winery in California and is also one of the most fun for kids to explore. Tours are led by actors in period attire and take visitors to the wine caves and historic wine museum. There’s also a picnic area and hedge maze on property for the little ones to enjoy while the adults belly up to the bar for a tasting or head to the Bubble Lounge to sip some sparklers.

With these eight family-friendly wineries in Sonoma, the entire family can enjoy a vacation to California’s beautiful Wine Country. From unique tours to outdoor games, these kid-friendly wineries cater to everyone in the family toasting to making memories in Sonoma.

– Where To Stay in Sonoma County –

– Most Beautiful Wineries in Sonoma County –

The post Top Family-Friendly Wineries in Sonoma County first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Known for its stunning scenery, laid-back vibe, and locally-driven food scene, Sonoma County checks all the boxes as a dreamy Wine Country destination. But when it comes to beautiful wineries, Sonoma overdelivers. From wineries that showcase immaculately landscaped gardens to those with historic buildings and vineyard views, here are our picks for the ten most beautiful wineries in Sonoma County.

Bubbles & Bites

Courtesy of J Vineyards

J Vineyards

11447 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 431-3646

Widely known as a top producer of California sparkling wine, J Vineyards truly offers something for everyone at its stylish winery and tasting room near Healdsburg — especially for those who love fantastic food. Head to the elegantly designed J Bubble Room for five courses of culinary delights and wine pairings, or enjoy a tasting of five wines from their comfortable, vineyard-facing outdoor terrace.

Dedicated to Sustainability

Courtesy of St. Francis Winery

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards

100 Pythian Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, (888) 675-9463

Established in 1978, St. Francis is a family-owned, Certified Sustainable winery dedicated to producing estate wines that showcase the unique terroir of the area. Enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards and Mayacamas Mountains from the mission-style tasting room, which includes a bell tower containing a 1,000 pound bronze cast bell that chimes each hour. St. Francis offers a superb, five-course wine and food pairing showcasing ingredients grown in the winery’s garden, but call in advance to book as slots fill quickly.

Idyllic Picnic Grounds

Courtesy of Facebook: Landmark Vineyards

Landmark Vineyards

101 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, CA 95452, (707) 833-0218

Located in the quaint community of Kenwood, Landmark is known for its small-production pinot noir and chardonnay wines. Tastings are offered daily at the charming winery, but to really enjoy the surroundings, opt to build your own picnic basket with local cheeses and charcuterie available for purchase on-site, then head outside to picnic with a bottle of wine.

Italian-Style Ambiance

Courtesy of Ferrari-Carano

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery

8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 433-6700

At the northern end of the Dry Creek Valley is Ferrari-Carano, a stately, Italian-style tasting room known for its fumé blanc and super Tuscan-style reds. Tastings normally take place in the Villa Fiore hospitality center or on the terrace, Il Terraza, where you can sip while taking in the lovely vineyard views. Regardless of the time of year you visit, don’t miss the chance to wander around the winery’s extensive gardens — five acres to be exact. Here, you’ll find footpaths, bridges, a stream, fish ponds, thousands of tulips, and other impressive flowers on display throughout the colorful grounds.

Culinary Delights

Courtesy of Jordan Winery

Jordan Winery

1474 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 431-5250

The ivy-covered chateau of Jordan Winery in Alexander Valley is an impressive sight, modeled after the chateaus of France. Beautiful winery building aside, it’s hard not to be captivated by the natural beauty of the 1,200-acre property, which features mountaintop vistas, rolling vineyards, and elaborate culinary gardens. Each of the unique tastings and experiences offered showcases the winery’s committment to both quality food and wine, but to really get a taste of Jordan, book the Estate Tour & Tasting (which resumes in June). This three-hour journey through the picturesque estate includes al fresco wine tastings, food pairings, and a tasting of Jordan’s Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil, for a comprehensive (and memorable) Jordan experience.

Russian River Gem

Courtesy of DeLoach Vineyards

DeLoach Vineyards

1791 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, (707) 755-3300

Since 1975, DeLoach Vineyards has produced quality pinot noir, chardonnay, and zinfandel wines from throughout the Russian River, many from their Certified Organic and Biodynamic estate vineyards. At the tasting room, elevate your tasting with a cheese plate or boxed lunch from Oakville Grocery, or plan to keep it more casual with an afternoon glass of wine and a snack during their Thursday and Friday evening happy hours from 4 pm – 6 pm.

Connecting Old and New

Courtesy of Leo Patrone / Scribe Winery

Scribe Winery

2300 Napa Road, Sonoma, CA 95476, (707) 939-1858

Set on a piece of property that pioneered pre-prohibition Sonoma Valley winemaking, Scribe Winery attracts a young, hip crowd to its peaceful location for pinot noir, sylvaner, and skin-fermented chardonnay. Tastings of Scribe’s coveted wines take place at the estate’s renovated historic Hacienda, offering a glimpse of the past while you sip. A connection to the land has always been part of Scribe’s philosophy, which is why the winery has an on-site garden, dedicated chefs, and (in normal times) regular farm-to-table dinners held throughout the West Coast. Just note that currently the winery is only open to members until further notice.

European-style Grandeur

Courtesy of Chateau St. Jean

Chateau St. Jean

8555 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA 95452, (707) 257-5784

Founded in 1973, Chateau St. Jean offers an idyllic setting in Sonoma Valley, where a European-style, 1920s chateau is surrounded by lush gardens, vineyards, and mountains. Enjoy a tasting flight overlooking the vines or rose garden, or explore the marriage between food and wine during their Food and Wine Traditions tasting.

A Peaceful Retreat

Courtesy of Reeve Wines

Reeve Wines

4551 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 235-6345

Situated off bucolic country roads in Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley, Reeve Wines charms with its peaceful, relaxed setting and small-lot wines. While the inside is as inviting as walking into the living room of a cool friend, the expansive patio makes for an especially lovely place to taste riesling or their proprietary red blend, offering a rustic-chic atmosphere that looks out at the surrounding vineyards.

All That Sparkles

Courtesy of Hana-Lee Sedgwick

Iron Horse Vineyards

9786 Ross Station Road, Sebastopol, CA 95472, (707) 887-1507

Iron Horse Vineyards is one of Sonoma County’s most popular family-owned wineries, known for its estate sparkling wines which can be enjoyed from the casual, rustic outdoor tasting room overlooking rolling hills of vineyards. This Russian River winery offers a wide variety of sparkling and still wines, but a regular favorite is the popular Wedding Cuvée, a crowd-pleasing bubbly that makes a great wedding gift.

– Discover Sonoma County’s Distinct Regions and Local Flavor –

– 11 Sonoma County Experiences Not to Miss –

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Make no mistake, we heart Sonoma County. This picturesque wine region is chock full of things to see and do, whether you’re a foodie, wine lover, outdoor enthusiast, beach goer, laid-back leisure seeker, or all of the above. However, due to its vast size and the sheer number of quality lodging options available, we get that deciding where to stay in Sonoma can be somewhat of a challenge.

To help you narrow it down, we’ve compiled a list of Sonoma hotels, resorts, and intimate inns to consider, each offering a welcome respite after a day or two exploring the many sides of Sonoma County.

Courtesy of Kenwood Inn and Spa

Located in the quaint town of Kenwood, the Mediterranean styled Kenwood Inn and Spa is a tranquil place to rest your head in Sonoma Valley. Situated on two-and-a-half beautiful acres, surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and ancient oak trees, the inn offers the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway in Sonoma Wine Country. Adding to the air of tranquility are the spacious guest rooms and suites, which feature deluxe amenities like in-room fireplaces and private terraces, as well as the serene on-site pool and cabanas (with poolside service). Of course, one can’t miss a visit to the spa, where holistic services and relaxation-inducing amenities are sure to leave you feeling totally blissed out.

Courtesy of Vintners Resort

Known for its serene, romantic atmosphere, the Vintners Resort is a terrific place for those looking to be in the heart of Wine Country, yet only a short drive from a city (Santa Rosa) and an airport (Sonoma County Airport). In addition to 44 guest rooms, outfitted with plush amenities like in-room fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs, the resort has an on-site spa, lushly landscaped gardens, and a fine dining restaurant, John Ash & Co., known for its delicious Wine Country cuisine and award-winning wine list.

Courtesy of Olea Hotel

Tucked away in the Sonoma Valley town of Glen Ellen, this intimate boutique hotel charms with its peaceful setting, comfortable accommodations, and friendly service. Modern guest rooms and private cottages feature luxurious details, like heated bathroom floors and plush bathrobes, while amenities like a year-round heated swimming pool, complimentary wine, and a gourmet, two-course breakfast add to the overall appeal of a stay.

Courtesy of Inn at Sonoma

When staying at the Inn at Sonoma, it’s easy to become accustomed to certain luxuries, such as the well-appointed accommodations, daily breakfast for two, and afternoon picnic boxes delivered to your room (complete with wine, cheese, and freshly baked cookies). While Four Sisters properties are known for special touches like these, not to mention warm and hospitable service, the Inn at Sonoma also happens to be conveniently located just down the street from the historic Sonoma Plaza. Don’t feel like walking? Borrow one of the complimentary bikes to venture around town or simply spend an afternoon enjoying the scenery along the nearby bike path.

Courtesy of Montage Resorts

This brand-new resort in Healdsburg, nestled among 258 acres of rolling vineyards and oak tree groves, is the ultimate destination for those looking for a pampered getaway in Wine Country. Inviting guest rooms and suites, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, marble bathrooms, and views of the surrounding forests, are designed with comfort and serenity in mind, while the Montage’s many on-site amenities, including two pools, poolside cabanas, a deluxe spa, kid’s activities, bocce ball, and pickle ball courts, make it easy for the whole family to settle into vacation mode. The Montage also offers several on-site dining options, including a restaurant, bar, and grab-and-go market each celebrating the seasonal flavors of Sonoma, should you not want to leave the property.

Courtesy of Hotel Healdsburg

Conveniently located in downtown Healdsburg, this chic hotel blends urban luxury with Wine Country cool that appeals to a wide variety of travelers. Outside of the beautifully appointed guest rooms, the hotel’s many amenities, including a 60-foot pool and Jacuzzi, fitness center, lobby bar, and spa, are sure to keep you busy, while added details like complimentary breakfast and bikes on-site are the cherries on top. Don’t miss dinner at the on-site restaurant, Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen, where vibrant, regionally-inspired Wine Country cuisine is served with elegant hospitality.

Courtesy of Wine Country Inns

Located in the Russian River Valley, the Raford Inn is an intimate retreat for those looking to stay off the beaten path, yet still be close to wineries and tasting rooms in and around the town of Healdsburg. Built in 1880, this Queen Anne Victorian mansion turned bed and breakfast has everything you want in a charming B&B, including five guest rooms with queen or king-sized beds, gourmet breakfasts each morning, evening wine receptions, gracious hospitality, and a wrap-around porch offering unobstructed vineyard views.

Courtesy of Sonoma Creek Inn

Located a few miles north of the Sonoma Plaza, the budget-conscious Sonoma Creek Inn is a casual alternative to other nearby (and pricier) Sonoma County lodging options. Each of the 16 guest rooms are colorful and inviting, featuring added conveniences like in-room A/C, mini refrigerators, and Keurig coffee makers so you can feel at home during a stay. The Inn also offers complimentary Wi-Fi, free on-site parking, and pet-friendly rooms, making it an easy choice for those looking to save without having to sacrifice in comfort or convenience.

– Discover Sonoma County’s Distinct Regions & Local Flavor –

– 11 Sonoma County Experiences Not to Miss –

The post Where To Stay In Sonoma County first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Flora Springs Winery

Courtesy of Flora Springs Winery

Sixteen Spirits Historical Ghost Winery Tour & Tasting

October 13, 2019, 10 AM – 12 PM
Cost: $75 per person, $60 for wine club members

No winery in Napa Valley gets in the Halloween spirit like Flora Springs. Each year, epic decorations lure tourists off of Hwy 29 – you can’t miss the trio of giant, dancing skeletons on the exterior of “The Room,” their St. Helena tasting room – and as a tribute to the winery’s history as one of the last remaining Napa Valley Ghost Wineries, Flora Springs releases limited-production, Halloween-only wine. In case you’re wondering, a Ghost Winery is defined as a winery built between 1860 and 1900, which then fell into disrepair in the early 1900s due to any number of reasons, like phylloxera disease, Prohibition, and the Great Depression. This October, Flora Springs ups the fear factor by offering a fascinating paranormal tour of their historic, and haunted, estate. Partnering with a team of paranormal investigators from Napa City Ghosts & Legends, this tour also includes a tasting of wine so you can sip while you walk (if not shaking in your boots).

Flora Springs Estate: 1978 West Zinfandel Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-5711
Flora Springs Tasting Room, “The Room”: 677 St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-8032

Castello di Amorosa

Courtesy of Facebook: Castello di Amorosa

Pagan Ball

October 25, 2019, 8 PM – 12 AM
Cost: $180 per person, $150 for wine club members

Napa Valley’s biggest Halloween costume party is back for its 10th year. Equal parts freaky and fun, it all goes down at California Wine Country’s notorious castle, Castello di Amorosa. The Halloween-inspired festivities will include a haunted, underground cave maze (because corn mazes are so last year), a DJ and dancing, fortune tellers, bottomless wine, tasty treats, cigar bar, photo booth, and games. For $30 extra, you get to arrive early for a wine tasting, tour of the haunted cellars, and fortune telling.

4045 St. Helena Highway, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 967-6272

Buena Vista Winery

Courtesy of Facebook: Buena Vista Winery

Harvest Masquerade Ball

October 26, 2019, 7 – 10 PM
Cost: $95 per person, $75 for wine club members, VIP $150

California’s first premium winery founded in 1857, Buena Vista Winery puts a modern twist on the classic masquerade ball. This not-so-spooky event is a tribute to a masked tradition that was supposedly started more than 150 years ago by the original founder, the Count of Buena Vista. The 1860’s, aristocratic-style evening takes place on the third floor of the winery’s Historic Champagne Cellar, featuring music, hors-d’oeuvres, and wine. This isn’t your typical Halloween costume party either – read: don’t show up as Wonder Woman or the Dragon Queen, Daenerys Targaryen – and instead requires vintage formal wear and a mask. Dress to impress, as costume contest winners will be announced at 9pm.

18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, CA 95476, (800) 926-1266

Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Courtesy of Facebook: Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Annual Harvest & Halloween Carnival

October 27, 2019, 11 AM – 2 PM
Cost: $12 per child, 14 and under

Bring the whole family to Francis Ford Coppola Winery’s 14th annual Halloween Carnival, for this fun, fall festival is the only winery event on this list that’s not just kid-friendly, but actually created for them. Break out their costumes a few days early; the day will include Halloween candy, carnival games, a DJ, and a Halloween-themed magic show. The pool café will be open serving food and drinks, for an extra cost. Proceeds from this event go to the Luther Burbank Music for Schools.

300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, CA 95441, (707) 857-1471

Cover image courtesy of Joanna Salazar/Flora Springs

— DISCOVER SONOMA COUNTY’S DISTINCT REGIONS & LOCAL FLAVOR —

— NAPA TO SONOMA: TWO EPIC WINE COUNTRY ITINERARIEs —

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Its vineyards may have put Sonoma County on the map, but to savor the richness of this vast and varied pocket of Wine Country, you must dig into its culinary landscape and explore its breathtaking natural beauty. Beyond the tidy rows of grapevines, there are rolling hills of unkempt farmland speckled with dairy cows, goats, and sheep used to make Sonoma’s award-winning cheeses. On the western edge, there are miles of rugged coastline filled with fresh, briny shellfish, and deep inside the county, there are artisan makers churning out everything from European-style breads, to olive oils and preserves, to fermented specialties like krauts, kombucha, beer, and cider. It’s a county filled with farmers, artists, winemakers, and chefs, all of whom share a love of Sonoma’s simple pleasures and relish in the bounty if its land.

SONOMA COAST

Courtesy of Susan Williams

About sixty miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, California’s famous Pacific Coast Highway (AKA Highway 1) winds through a cinematic, 55-mile seaside road full of rocky cliffs, secluded coves,and long stretches of beach often cloaked in a chilly, grey fog.

With only a handful of small towns along the way, it’s easy to immerse oneself in the rugged natural beauty of Sonoma’s coast in solitude and find total fulfillment with little more than epic views and a warm bowl of clam chowder from Spud Point Crab Company in Bodega Bay. Clear, crisp days in March through June offer the best opportunities for whale watching at Bodega Head, but Goat Rock State Beach, just south of Jenner, is a favorite gathering spot for the local harbor seal and sea lion populations year-round.

Further north in Jenner, where the mouth of the Russian River meets the Pacific, adventurers can book kayaks through WaterTreks Eco Tours and paddle through calm waters alongside blue herons and harbor seals.

DRY CREEK VALLEY

Courtesy of Susan Williams

It’s no wonder Dry Creek Valley is a favorite destination for weekenders. Offering both a casual, quintessential Sonoma Wine Country experience of salt-of-the-earth growers and award-winning wines, coupled with upscale lodging, shopping, and restaurants in nearby Healdsburg, travelers get to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Depending on how leisurely you want to savor this AVA, you could head to Truett Hurst Winery and settle in for the day with sandwiches from nearby Dry Creek General Store. Enjoy a bottle of the winery’s Old Vine Zinfandel with picnic fare on their biodynamic farm and keep your eyes out on the water, where you may also catch a glimpse of the annual salmon run splashing before your eyes. Or bring a little competition to your relaxation by reserving a game of bocce at Dry Creek Vineyard’s beautiful, Loire Valley inspired tasting room.

To experience more of Dry Creek Valley, add Ferrari-Carano to your itinerary for vineyard select Chardonnay, Unti Vineyards for interesting Rhone and Italian varietals, Papapietro Perry for exceptional, single vineyard pinot noir, and Bella Vineyards for a cave tasting of their small lot zinfandel. If you fall in love with Bella’s wines, you may be just as charmed with their guest cottages both on their farm and in downtown Healdsburg.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Courtesy of the Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce

A popular vacation spot for San Franciscans, Sonoma’s Russian River region draws a mix of thrill seekers, food and wine enthusiasts, and weekenders looking to unplug from their daily grind. At the heart of this region is the Bohemian Highway, a 10-mile stretch of road said to be one of California’s most scenic drives. A mix of pastoral countryside and ancient redwood groves, this winding drive is best enjoyed with windows down, a good playlist and fresh-from-the-oven treat from Wild Flour Bread at the southern end of the highway in the tiny town of Freestone.

On warm days, vacationers flock to the Russian river for kayaking, paddleboarding, or to enjoy a laid-back afternoon of lounging on the shore of Johnson’s Beach, while more adventurous types bring floats to ride down the river.

To experience the grandeur of California’s famous trees, a hike at Armstrong Redwoods State National Reserve is a must-do.

Given its close proximity to the Sonoma Coast, this cool-climate AVA produces standout chardonnay and pinot noir. Try some of the region’s finest at Littorai Wines, Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery, and Lynmar Estate Winery. More wineries to visit include Deloach Vineyards, Inman Family Wines, and Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards. Or experience an entirely different kind of tasting at El Barrio, Guerneville’s hip, new mezcal and tequila bar from the owners Boon Hotel + Spa.

ALEXANDER VALLEY

Courtesy of Susan Williams

Like a sleeping giant, Alexander Valley is about to have its moment. Comprised of hilly terrain from the Mayacamas, rich, fertile soils from the Russian River bed, and Sonoma’s warmest climate, this region is cabernet sauvignon country, and its productions are most frequently compared to those of both Napa and Bordeaux. While its the largest and most widely planted AVA in the county, it’s also one of the least explored. Covering the northeastern quarter of Sonoma, Alexander Valley is quietly growing exceptional fruit, just like generations past.

Stretching from the northern edge of Healdsburg, along the Russian River, up to Cloverdale, the this vast Wine Country region offers picturesque vineyard scenery to rival anywhere in Sonoma.

Discover small, unassuming, family-owned wineries with big heart and exceptional wines like J. Rickards Winery in Cloverdale, Garden Creek Vineyards in Geyserville, and Stuhlmuller Vineyards in Healdsburg.

In Geyserville, be sure to stop into Pech Merle Winery, a hip and playful tasting room with delicious Sonoma County wines, before indulging in one of the region’s culinary gems, Diavola Pizzeria and Salumeria, an innovative, farm-to-table Italian restaurant where The Dictator Pizza, topped with sliced ribeye, kimchee, kewpie mayonnaise, and serrano chiles, is a must.

SONOMA VALLEY

Courtesy of Susan Williams

On the southeastern corner of Sonoma County, just a 45- minute drive from San Francisco, you’ll find the charming, historic town of Sonoma. Mission San Francisco Solano, California’s last and northernmost mission, along with historic buildings and barracks from General Vallejo’s era, surround the town square, giving this friendly farming community an old world vibe.

Amongst cobblestone alleyways and century-old buildings, some of the area’s finest reds grown from the Valley’s famous Moon Mountain district are poured daily just off the plaza inside Kamen Estate Wines‘ modern tasting room. Travel back to the time of the pioneers with a visit to the Buena Vista Winery tasting room just outside town.

Experience more of Sonoma Valley’s unique flavor just up the road in the tiny village of Glen Ellen. Made famous by its former resident, Jack London, whose namesake park is a popular stop for hikers, picnic-goers,and history buffs, this little town is hub of great food and wine.

While in Glen Ellen, schedule a tour at the Benziger Family Winery to get a behind-the-scenes look at their biodynamically farmed Sonoma Mountain estate. Or stop by Imagery Estate Winery to try some of their unusual varietals, paired with their fabulous art collection. For a casual tasting and insider’s look at wine production, visit Loxton Cellars, where the friendly Aussie winemaker will guide you through his entire process from grape to bottle.

Finish your wine tastings just a few clicks north on Highway 12 with Wine Country comfort food at Kenwood’s popular new restaurant, Tips Roadside.

SANTA ROSA AND CENTRAL SONOMA COUNTY

Courtesy of Facebook: Visit Santa Rosa

Centrally located in the heart of the county, Santa Rosa is Sonoma’s largest and most diverse city, offering a mix of culture, arts, restaurants, and nightlife, including world class performances at Luther Burbank Center For the Arts.

Into retro? Check in at the Sandman Hotel, a beautifully renovated motor-lodge with a throw-back feel, or the new Astro Motel, a playfully restored, mid-century motor lodge effortlessly blends kitchy detail, modern design, and Sonoma hospitality. The Astro’s owners run the popular restaurant The Spinster Sisters a few blocks away, where guests enjoy farm-fresh “Sonoma County Cuisine” from breakfast through dinner.

Often referred to as “beer city,” Santa Rosa is also home to world-famous Russian River Brewing Company, along with a growing community of smaller craft beer producers in and around Santa Rosa.

Just about seven miles west of town in Sebastopol, artists, farmers and hippies have created an eclectic and innovative hub of local food and drink culture beyond beer and wine.

Sample probiotic elixirs at The Kefiry, artisan gin at Spirit Works Distillery inside The Barlow community marketplace and sustainably caught fish at the new locals hangout, Handline. If you find yourself at The Barlow, circle back to wine tasting at the MacPhail Tasting Lounge.

For another taste of this diverse region, visit Petaluma. Located seventeen miles south of Santa Rosa and surrounded by historic farms, Petaluma’s downtown district is filled with blocks of stunning Victorian homes, antique shops and delicious fare from the surrounding land and sea. Tucked inside the beautifully restored Hotel Petaluma, enjoy oysters and very local wines from “less than 30 miles away” at The Shuckery and don’t skip town without a visit to Della Fattoria for salt-studded loaf of their Meyer-Lemon Rosemary bread.

Cover image courtesy of Facebook: Experience Sonoma Valley

— 11 SONOMA COUNTY EXPERIENCES NOT TO MISS —

— GO MORE IN DEPTH AT SONOMA.COM —

The post Discover Sonoma County’s Distinct Regions & Local Flavor first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Mix It Up

Farm-to-table Fusion

Sebastapol Spice and Sake

Local Canvas

The post Sonoma County Restaurants You Can’t Miss first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Party Central

Image Source: Yelp

Rustic Resort

Image Source: Highlands Resort, Yelp

Upscale Hotel

Image Source: Yelp

Classic Inn With Riverside Dining

Image Source: Yelp

A Gay Bar on Main Street

Image Source: Yelp

Raise Your Glass

Image Source: Yelp

Gay-Friendly Winery With a History

Image Source: Yelp

The post The LGBT Friendly Travel Guide to Sonoma County first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Family Affair

Image Source: Bacigalupi Vineyards and Bacigalupi Vineyards Facebook

Artfully Beautiful

Image Source: Paradise Ridge Winery

Cozy and Intimate

Image Source: Westwood Wineries

Comically Fun

Image Source: Two Amigos Wines

Historic Tasting Room

Image Source: Three Sticks Wines Facebook

Female Owned and Operated

Image Source: Inman Family Wines

A Sense of Place

Image Source: BUMP Wine Cellars Yelp

Cool Climate Expertise

Image Source: McLaren Tasting Lounge Yelp

The post Small Sonoma County Wineries: A Traveler’s Guide first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Winery Visits Paired With Historic Landmarks

Image Source: Beau Wine Tours and Limousine Service

Five Star Touring Experience

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Napa Valley Wineries & Tasting Rooms

*Open New Year’s Eve

• Back Room Wines:  707.226.1378  Open 10:00am – 5:00pm
• Black Stallion Winery: 707.227.3250  Open  10:00am – 5:00pm 
• Bennett Lane Winery:   877.629.6272  Open 10:30am – 3:00 pm
• Castello di Amorosa:  707.967.6272  Open 9:30am – 5:00pm
• Cliff Lede Winery:   800.428.2260  Open 10:00am – 2:00pm 
• Chateau Montelena Winery:  707.942.5105  Open 9:30am – 12:000pm 
• Chateau Potelle Winery:   707.255.9440  Open 10:00am – 3:00pm 
• Cuvaison Estate – Napa: 707.942.2455  Open  1 0:00am – 4:00pm
• Cuvaison Estate – Calistoga:  707.942.2468  Open 11:00am – 4:00pm
• Del Dotto – St. Helena: 707.963.2134  Open 11:00am – 5:00pm (Appt. Required)
• Domaine Carneros:   800.716.2788  Open 10:00am – 4:00pm
• Domaine Chandon:  888.242.6366 opt. 3  Open 10:00am – 5:00pm
• Elizabeth Spencer Wines:  707.963.4762  Open 10:00am – 4:00pm
• Grgich Hills Estate:  800.532.3057  Open 9:30am- 4:30pm
• Hall – St. Helena:   707.967.2626  Open 10:00am – 3:00pm 
• Hall – Rutherford : 707.967.2626  Open By Appointment
• Hess Collection:   707.255.1144  Open 10:00am – 2:00pm 
• Inglenook:   707.968.1100  Open 10:00am – 5:00pm 
• Judd’s Hill Winery:   707-255-2332  Open 10:00am – 4:00pm 
• Louis M. Martini:   707.968.3361  Open 10:00am – 3:00pm
• Markham Vineyards:  707.963.5292  Open 10:00am – 5:00pm 
• Merryvale Vineyards:  707.663.7777  Open 10:30am – 3:00pm
• Pine Ridge Vineyards:   800.575.9777  Open 10:00am – 4:30pm 
• Raymond Vineyards:   707.963.3141  Open 10:00am – 4:00pm 
• Robert Mondavi Winery:   888-766-6328  Open 10:00am-3:00pm
• Round Pound Estate:   707.302.2575  Open 10:00am – 3:00pm (last appt. at 1:30pm)
• Signorello Estate:   707.255.5990  Open  10:00am – 5:00pm (by Appt. only)
• St. Supery:  707.963.4507  Open 10:00am – 2:30pm
• V. Sattui Winery:   707.963.7774  Open   9:00am – 5:00pm
• William Hill Winery:  707 265 3024  Open 10:00am – 3:00pm

*Open New Year’s Day

• Alpha & Omega Winery: 707.963.9999  Open 10:00am – 6:00pm 
• Bennett Lane Winery:  877.629.6272  Open 11:00am – 3:00pm 
• Castello di Amorosa:   707.967.6272  Open  9:30am – 5:00pm 
• Cuvaison Estate – Napa:  707.942.2455  Open 10:00am – 4:00pm 
• Del Dotto – St. Helena: 707.963.2134 Open 11:00am – 5:00pm (Appt. Required) 
• Domaine Carneros:   800.716.2788  Open 12:00pm – 6:00pm
• Elizabeth Spencer Wines: 10:00am – 4:00pm 707.963.4762
• Raymond Vineyards:   707.963.3141   Open 10:00am – 4:00pm 
• V. Sattui Winery:   707.963.7774 Open 9:00am – 5:00pm

Sonoma County Wineries & Tasting Rooms

*Open New Year’s Eve 

• Anaba Wines:  707.996.4188  Open 10:30 am – 3pm
• Battaglini Estate Winery:   707.578.4091  Open 10am – 4:30pm
• Cartograph Wines:   707.433.8270, Open 12pm – 4pm
• Chalk Hill Estate:   707.657.4837  Open 10am – 4pm
• Christopher Creek: 707.433.2001 Open 10am – 6pm
• Deloach Vineyards:  707.526.9111  Open 10am – 5pm
• Dutton Estate Winery:   707.829.9463  Open 10am – 3pm
• Francis Ford Copolla Winery:   707.857.1471 Open 11am – 6pm
• Gloria Ferrer:   707.996.7256  Open 10am – 3pm
• Halleck Vineyard:  707.484.0707  Open 10:30am – 3:00pm 
• Hanna Winery:  707.431.4310  Open 10am – 4pm
• Hartford Family Winery: 707.887.8030  Open 10am – 3pm
• Hop Kiln Winery:   707.433.6491  Open 10am – 2pm
• Imagery Estate:  877.550.4278  Open 10am – 2:30pm
• Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens:    707.571.8100  Open 10am – 3pm
• Korbel Champagne Cellars:   707.824.7000  10am – 4:30pm
• La Crema:   800.314.1762  Open 10:30am – 3pm
• Longboard Vineyards:    707.433.3473  Open 11am – 2pm
• Mantanzas Creek Winery:  707.528.6464  Open 10am – 2pm
• Murphy-Goode:   707.431.7644  Open 10:30am – 3pm
• Rodney Strong Vineyards:   707.431.1533  Open 10am – 3pm
• Russian Hill Winery:    707.575.9428  Open 10am – 4pm
• Selby:    707.431.1288  Open 11am – 5:30pm
• St. Francis Winery:  707.431.8749  Open 10am – 2pm
• Stephen & Walker Winery:   707.431.8749  Open 11am – 7pm
• Topel Winery Tasting Room:  707.433.4116  Open 11am – 5pm
• Walt Wines :  707.933.4440   Open 11am – 4pm
• White Oak Vineyards:   707.433.8429  Open 10am – 2pm

The post Winery Holiday Hours for New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day first appeared on WineCountry.com.