You are on page 1of 80

DAY TRIPS

Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country

Spring/Summer 2014

PUBLIC ATION

New! avorites: Sonoma CountyEF xperiences

Unique Winery tures Culinary Adven llery Tastings Brewery & Disti Perfect Picnics ades Outdoor Escap

49

FORTY-NINE TASTING ROOM

TRIPS

EIGHT WINE TASTING

from Healdsburg to Sonoma

REVIEWS

Rockpile Lake Sonoma


FERRARI-CARANO DUTCHER CROSSING

Alexander Valley

I AN RUSS

DUTCHER CR EEK

ER RIV

101
CANYON

Dry Creek Valley


RD

STEWARTS POINT

RD.

FORCHINI

Pages 21-25
Northern Sonoma

Dry Creek

TRUETT HURST

Downtown Healdsburg & Geyserville


128
AL EXA ND ER
VALLEY

DRY CREEK RD.

LYTTON SPGS

Pages 26-29
Knights Valley

. K RD CREE DRY EEK RD . CR Y DR W.

SIMI WINERY TOPEL WINERY

Russian River
Pages 35-43
ER RIV
RD.

CHRISTOPHER CREEK ARMIDA


W

ER

D.

RODNEY STRONG

South of Healdsburg
Pages 30-34

KORBEL
WESTSI

Russian River
116 1
E BOH

ES TS ID

TASTING ROOM ON THE GREEN


RD.

ATASCADERO CREEK WINE GUERILLA RUSSIAN RIVER VINEYARDS DUTTON ESTATE GRATON RIDGE GRATON

SLU SS

RIV

ER RD.

SONOMA-CUTRER OLD WORLD WINERY


ER
OL IVE T

Chalk Hill
R GS PRIN

DE

RD. OCCIDENTAL

FU LTO NR

Green Valley

LA GU NA RD .

MARTIN RAY

MARK W EST S

RD.

GU ER NE VIL L

DeLOACH
D.

PIN ER

CHATEAU ADOR

BODEGA HIG HWA Y

TAFT STREET WINERY HOOK & LADDER OCCIDENTAL ROAD CELLARS

OC CID E

HANNA
NT AL R D.

DARGENZIO ANCIENT OAK

D.

MIAN

HIGHWAY

BALLETTO

Kenwood
Pages 51-58
LEDSON WINERY & VINEYARDS

VA L

LE Y

FO RD

CU TO F

Sonoma Coast

116

101 Santa Rosa

Pages 44-47
GRAN GE

MACLEOD FAMILY VINEYARD PARADISE RIDGE VJB VINEYARDS & CELLARS


D.

PE TA LU MA H

A Publication of

ILL

RO AD

CHATEAU ST. JEAN KENWOOD WINERY KUNDE FAMILY ESTATE WINERY LOXTON CELLARS

MATANZAS BE CREEK NN
ET T VA L LE YR

RO B

LA R

RD .

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

LAUREL GLEN ERIC ROSS MOONDANCE VALLEY OF THE MOON

Tomales Bay

669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476 P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433

707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674


HWY

BOD EGA

Glen Ellen
12

WASHINGTON

Pages 59-65

PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco Direct (707) 938-3734 mike@winecountrythisweek.com SALES REPRESENTATIVE Jet Howell, 707-495-9385 winecountryjet1@att.net MANAGING EDITOR Chandra Grant Phone 707-938-1783 Fax 707-938-3674 chandra@winecountrythisweek.com OFFICE MANAGER Cathy Gore Phone 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674 Email cathy@winecountrythisweek.com EDITORIAL Karin Argoud, Michelle TO J. Baker, SAN FRANCISCO CONTRIBUTORS Dawn Marie Carlson, Alexandra Charsley, Monica L. Dashwood, Ronda Giangreco Mike Hyland, Charles Neave Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Abigail Zimmerman

FRAT ES

ST AG E

GU

116 101

LC H

116
LARSON FAMILY
12 121

121
CLINE CELLARS MEADOWCROFT JACUZZI FAMILY VIANSA
TO V ALLE JO

PROHIBITION SPIRITS CARNEROS BREWING COMPANY

Los Carneros Region


TO N APA

R LE VIL KE LA D.

TO SAN FRANCISCO

37

Los Carneros
Pages 66-73

San Pablo Bay

Cover photo courtesy of Truett Hurst Winery, Healdsburg

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

DAY TRIPS
Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country
8 DAY TRIPS
Dry Creek Valley 21 Downtown Healdsburg/Geyserville 26 South of Healdsburg 30 Russian River 35 Santa Rosa 44 Kenwood 51 Glen Ellen 59 Los Carneros 66 Sonoma County Wineries Map 78-79 Northern Sonoma County Wineries Map 20 Sonoma Valley Wineries Map 48

Spring/Summer 2014

HELPFUL INFORMATION
4-6 8 9/43 7/50 10 12 14 16 18 74-75 49 76-77

Wine Tasting Tips Getaway Adventures Destiny Wine Tours Wine Country Cyclery Unique Winery Experiences Culinary Adventures Brewery & Distillery Tastings Perfect Picnics Outdoor Escapades Dining Recommendations Della Santinas Varietals Chart

49 TASTING ROOM REVIEWS


Ancient Oak Cellars Armida Winery Atascadero Creek Winery Balletto Vineyards & Winery Carneros Brewing Company Chateau Ador Chateau St. Jean Christopher Creek Winery Cline Cellars DArgenzio Winery DeLoach Vineyards Dutcher Crossing Winery Dutton Estate Winery Eric Ross Winery Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery Forchini Vineyards & Winery Graton Ridge Cellars Hanna Winery and Vineyards Hook & Ladder Winery Jacuzzi Family Vineyards Kenwood Vineyards Korbel Champagne Cellars Kunde Family Estate Winery Larson Family Winery www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 45 31 38 38 73 47 56 32 69 46 42 23 38 62 22 25 38 38 39 68 53 36 52 71 Laurel Glen Vineyard Ledson Winery & Vineyards Loxton Cellars MacLeod Family Vineyard Martin Ray Winery Matanzas Creek Winery Meadowcroft Wines Moondance Cellars Occidental Road Cellars Old World Winery Paradise Ridge Tasting Room Prohibition Spirits Rodney Strong Vineyards Russian River Vineyards Simi Winery Sonoma-Cutrer Taft Street Winery Tasting Room on the Green Topel Winery Truett Hurst Winery VJB Vineyards & Cellars Valley of the Moon Winery Viansa Winery Wine Guerrilla 61 58 65 57 37/39 60 70 63 39 41 55 72 33 39 29 40 39 34 28 24 54 64 67 39

Heading to the Tasting Room


Do not be intimidated for any reason. That is rule number one (and there are very few real rules after that). For the most part, going wine tasting is about the easiest thing in the world, especially here in Northern California where wineries and tasting rooms abound. You can find wineries specializing in red wines of all types, those that are Twomey Cellars famous for their white wines and others who pour sparkling wine. It is a matter of doing a little research and planning your day. Most tasting rooms open around 10 a.m. and close between 4:30 and 6 p.m. As a rule sparkling wine houses are opened the latest. Before you start off pack a few essentials: Water (plenty of water) and something to snack on crackers or a baguette. Many wineries have picnic areas and there are plenty of delis and bakeries that can make up a lunch for you, or make your own. Which brings us to eating and drinking, the kind that doesnt directly involve wine. Be sure to nibble during the day and make sure you make time for lunch. Two tips: drink at least twice as much water as you do wine, and remember that you dont have to drink everything poured into your glass. There is a reason tasting bars have dump buckets and a pitcher of water to wash out your glass. That said, here are some tips that have proven to be helpful and are designed to help make the sensory adventure of wine tasting all the more enjoyable. Dont be afraid to ask questions. Time and time again I have heard knowledgeable winery workers say that there is no such thing as a stupid question, and they mean that. You can drink what you want, in the order you want. If you only like reds, say so; if you dont like sweet wines, speak up. But the idea of starting with whites, then going on to reds and then sweet wines is a good guide. Zinfandel is red. I am sure you know that but it never hurts to remind everyone. If there is a particular wine you want to try and it is not on the list, ask. There might be a bottle around that was opened for a trade tasting or by the winemaker. Most tasting rooms are happy to pour a little if you show enthusiasm. If you plan to take wine home with you, either in the car or on a plane, buy a cardboard box with Styrofoam wine inserts. Fill it during the day and this keeps wine from rolling around in the trunk. Check out the smaller wineries. It is a revelation. Take notes on the wines you most enjoyed. Take advantage of tours when the winery offers them, but keep in mind that they take anywhere from 20 minutes to well over an hour, so one a day is plenty. Buy wines that you can only find at the winery. These often include smaller (375 ml) bottles of limited production Ports or dessert wines. Dont buy a wine you can get at a supermarket back home. Youll pay more, and besides, whats the point? Look for tasting rooms in towns. Many of these are cooperative tasting rooms, where in one place you might find wines from a dozen or more small-to-medium premium producers. They are scattered throughout the area and more are opening all the time. Dont give too much thought to ratings and vintages. Its like art: if you like it, its a good wine. It is as simple as that. Remember that you dont have to do the driving. It takes no more than a phone call to rent anything from a Town Car or restored Packard convertible to stretch limos and a 20-passenger bus. All have drivers that will stow your wine for you and the local companies know the area. As to taking that wine home, ten people sharing one of those impossibly long limousines is fine and fun, but if you all plan to buy a couple of cases the trunk which is no bigger than a normal luxury cars is going to fill up fast and youre going to find yourself filling the interior floor with boxes and using cases of Cabernet as footrest. Tell the transportation company what you have in mind and listen to their advice. They know the territory and the people and personalities. See next page. Know your limits. If you get close to it let others taste and you can listen. It beats ending the day in a blur, and if need be calling a taxi is cheaper than the alternative. And if at a seated tasting, dont be afraid to leave a gratuity. Its more than worth the five or ten dollars to get wisdom and wine and a great time. By Charles Neave

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Do the Math
One of the questions most asked when it comes to wine is how much of this does it take to make that, and so on. We wont pretend that its simple, but here are some industry statistics that will give a pretty good answer to that query. As with anything agricultural, of course, they are all based on countless variables when it comes to acre yields, but this is a good starting point. The rest of the information varies little if at all.

A case of wine includes:


a dozen 750 ml bottles (or 24 half bottles) or 307.2 ounces total, which comes from 30 pounds of grapes.

A single bottle contains:


750 ml of wine which is 25.6 ounces made from about 2.4 pounds of grapes (39 oz.) and is enough for four or maybe five glasses.

An acre of vineyard land can give the grower:


five tons of grapes (though it is also less, depending on a variety of farming and winemaking practices, and on the varietal and the vineyard One standard oak barrel of wine holds: location) which will give you 797 gallons of juice 295 bottles of wine (or 59 gallons) made from 740 pounds of grapes (or thirteen-and-a-half barrels) which is pretty close which works out to almost but not precisely 24 cases of wine. to four thousand bottles of wine.

What does all that information on a wine label mean?

XYZ Winery
RESERVE
Dry Creek Sonoma County

The U.S. Department of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms regulates wine labels and requires that information be given in a straightforward way. Basically, you will want to look for the types of grapes grown, where the grapes are grown and when the grapes were picked.

ZINFANDEL
2002
Produced and Bottled by XYZ winery, Healdsburg, California
ALCOHOL 14.6% BY VOLUME

Brand name Designation for a special wine Vineyard or appellation known for its grapes might be designated Location where the grapes used were grown Grape variety used Vintage year in which the grapes were picked Location where the wine was made and/or bottled (Not to be confused with the area the grapes are grown.) Alcohol content may be stated or the the label may simply say "Table Wine

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Notes on Wine Tasting


Its a good idea to plan to visit several wineries as every wine-tasting experience offered is different. With so many distinctive viticultural areas, one can easily taste many of the worlds best varietials and winemaking styles without learning the region. Listed below are five basic types of tasting experiences. The experience will vary in style from winery to winery.

Wine Bar Tasting


The most common tasting experience is a Wine Bar Tasting. You step up to the bar where typically a list of wines being poured is displayed. Expect to pay a tasting fee between $10-$40. Some tasting bars will offer you the option to taste a library or reserve wine. Exercising this option increases the fee, but will allow you to taste very unique, old or rare wines.

Sit Down Tasting


A Sit Down Tasting usually requires an appointment and there may be a slightly higher fee than a wine bar fee. Seated in an elegant room, you are poured several wines by your winery host. Expect your host to describe the unique characteristics of each wine and how it was made.

Table Service Tasting


A Table Service Tasting, popular at sparkling wine facilities, is a tasting experience where you are seated at a table and the tastings are brought to you. winery to pour the first round. Then you move to another place within the winery to sample the next wine. This experience continues until all the wines are tasted.

Walk Around Tasting


A Walk Around Tasting is a combination of a tour and a tasting. Your host brings along several bottles of wine on your tour, and may take you to a garden area of the

Barrel Tasting
Another popular tasting experience that can be part of a tour or a Walk Around is a Barrel Tasting. Your guide takes a wine thief, a special siphon placed into a hole in the top of a barrel to extract tasting samples of a maturing wine. The sample allows you to taste what the wine is like in the middle of developing its full potential.

Why make an appointment?


Some wineries are so small that they need to know when you are coming so someone will be there to greet you. Other wineries have permit restrictions that limit the number of guests that can visit each day. Others have sitdown tastings that start and end at specific times. Its always a good idea to schedule your appointments well in advance of your visit because some of the more popular wineries fill up their appointments weeks in advance.
WWW.LEGENDARYNAPAVALLEY.COM

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Wine Country Cyclery offers the perfect way to truly capture the grandeur of the Sonoma Valley. Why hassle with traffic when you can leisurely pedal to some of the valleys most celebrated tasting rooms? Wine country visitors who simply fly by the vineyards at fifty miles per hour are missing out on the very best aspects of the experience. The aroma of the grapes, the warmth of the sun and sound of gentle breezes rustling through the vines are best enjoyed at a much more relaxed pace. The knowledgeable staff at Wine Country Cyclery will gladly help you plan an unforgettable winery tour, supplying you with maps and tasting room coupons. The shop is conveniently located just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma and offers a wide range of bikes for every skill level and age of cyclist. Their fleet of road bikes features Comfort hybrids (including helmets and locks) as well as some of the very best for the serious cyclist Cannondale and Trek. The Cannondale and Trek rentals include clip-in pedals. If you are planning on bringing your own bicycle to the wine country, Wine Country Cyclery has experienced mechanics available seven days a week to do last-minute adjustments or make quick repairs. And, to finish off your day of adventure and sunshine, Wine Country Cyclery can arrange for you to savor a lite bite food and wine pairing at Roche Family Winery tasting room just off the Sonoma Plaza. With award-winning wines and scrumptious offerings, youll enjoy the perfect ending to your trip on their patio, gathered around the fire pit, wine glass in hand.

FUN FACTS Wine Country Cyclery boasts the youngest rental fleet of comfort hybrid bikes, replacing them yearly. Their high-end road bikes are continuously maintained for top performance. Already a cycling pro? Bring your own pedals, shoes, even your saddle a certified fitter will personally size you to your rental bike. If youre coming from far away, ship your bike to Wine Country Cyclery...theyll put it together and have it waiting for you. When youre ready to leave, theyll pack it carefully for a safe shipment back. Dont own your own equipment? They have a selection of helmets, locks and pedals such as Shimano and Look. PACKING A PICNIC? Wine Country Cyclery has bike trailers that can hold all of your goodies, as well as your wine purchases along the way! MAKE IT A FAMILY TRIP! Wine Country Cyclery has Tag-a-Long bikes that allow kids to enjoy the ride, too, as well as bike trailers that can seat two small children.

Wine Country Cyclery


Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

262 W Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 Reservations recommended (707) 996-6800 | winecountrycyclery.com Follow Wine Country Cyclery on Facebook!

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Ride the Wine Trail to the wine countrys small family-owned wineries, following the back roads and country lanes of Napa Valley and Sonoma County! Our Sip n Cycle is the quintessential day trip, taking in sun soaked landscapes, dotted with vines wineries and farms. Youll discover the best of this area with Getaway Adventures top-rated guides, sharing their secret spots and treating you like long lost friends. Every tour comes with our sumptuous Wine Country Picnic, prepared at selected wineries chosen for their country charm and great views. Velo n Vino A cyclist dream ride! We do a spirited 20 to 40 miles in the morning, then put our road bikes away, take off our cleats and ride around by van to the taste wine after a great morning ride. If kayaking is your idea of adventure, come paddle the Russian River with us! We take you on one of five stretches, from Cloverdale to Jenner, each with a unique perspective. Choose either single or double kayaks, all geared at the energetic beginner. Fully guided, again our great lunch and plenty of swim breaks and photo ops. A great family trip, you can even bring your dog! Hike tours take us in the giant redwood forest, with towering 300+ feet trees. Then walk along the amazing Sonoma Coast with incomparable views then top it off with some Champagne. Great way to really see the best of the best this area has to offer with our local guides. Hidden Winery Van Tours Come explore the areas smaller, boutique wineries with our custom-designed van tours, in airconditioned, 15-passenger vans that take you to some really cool wineries. Meet the owners and winemakers and taste world-class Submitted wines.

FUN FACTS Getaway Adventures was founded in 1991 and has served over 10,000 guests. It is the oldest continually owned bike tour operator in the Wine Country, serving both Napa and Sonoma Counties DID YOU KNOW? Getaway adventures specialized in group, corporate outings up to 200 people. Team building, R & R, incentive, whatever your reason we love groups and do over 40 a year. We now do Electric Bike tours in the Santa Rosa area. Top rated on trip advisor our guides are the best in the business! DONT MISS. Bike and Safari Tour. You bike in the morning to area wineries, then mingle with giraffes in the afternoon. Go to our website, check out other great tours like the Sip N Cycle, Pedal n Paddle, Velo n Vino, Farm Fresh Bike Tour and lots lots more

Getaway Adventures Wine Country Bike Tours


Specializing in bike, kayak and hiking tours in the Napa and Sonoma Wine Country (707) 568-3040 | 1-800-499-2453 getawayadventures.com

Like us on FACEBOOK and receive either a T-shirt or $15 off per person. Must mention this Promo code WCTW 1 with booking
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Ill tell you the owner, Ray Hanson, is a real character and hes passionate about what he does. He loves talking with all kinds of people young people, older people, people from all around the world, etc. One could say that Ray is a real people person. He told me, I meet my passengers as clients, and they leave as friends. I want to adopt them and take them home with me. Next thing you know, Ray will own a bed & breakfast to accommodate all of his adoptees! Ray was as a firefighter that just recently retired, so if some sort of unfortunate incident happened to occur during your adventure, he would know exactly how to handle it. If by chance Ray isnt your driver, his other drivers have all been through rigorous training to provide exemplary (and safe) service. Along with the wine tours, Destiny safely chauffeurs clients to the airport, concerts, shopping sprees, weddings, bachelorette parties, sporting events, proms, anniversaries and just about any kind of special event imaginable. The limo (which comfortably seats eight passengers) is a spotless black 2006 Lincoln Tiffany Town Car, and it comes fully stocked with Champagne and other adult beverages, water, sodas and more. It features a state-of-the-art sound system, which will sooth your ears or rock your world, depending on your mood. Ray just added two beautiful black stretches and a silver Mercedes Benz S500 to his fleet as well as a 2014 Black Cadillac Escalade coming this summer. Clients have plenty of luxurious transportation options. Your car is waiting let Destiny Wine Tours take you to your By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench travel destination!

LITTLE KNOWN FACT Destiny Wine Tours was founded in 2009 and Rays wife is credited with choosing the name for the company (great name, by the way!). FUN FACT Owner/Driver Ray Hanson says after driving a big fire truck for all those years, driving my limo is like driving a sports car! Not to worry, though, Ray is a true professional and pilots his limo with great care. KUDOS FOR DESTINY WINE TOURS Five Star Rating on www.yelp.com! It doesnt get any better than that!

Destiny Wine Tours


Tours are available seven days a week 3295 Vichy Avenue, Napa (707) 254-0442 www.destinywinetours.com www.facebook.com/pages/ Destiny-Wine-Tours twitter: @destinywinetours

Mention this story and get 20% off your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

UNIQUE WINERY EXPERIENCES


CHATEAU ST. JEAN [Kenwood]
With its gracious style and inviting gardens, Chateau St Jean is the quintessential Sonoma Valley winery. Founded in 1973, the winery is a pioneer in single vineyard designates and holds the title of the first Sonoma winery to be named Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator for its Cinq Cpages Bordeaux-style blend. There are many ways to enjoy your visit to Chateau St Jean from tastings in two different rooms to a sit-down blending experience. The grounds and gardens also offer an opportunity to buy a picnic and play bocce ball while enjoying their wine and hospitality. 8555 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood CA 95452 1-877-478-5326 | www.chateaustjean.com

THE WINE CARRIAGE


A tour on The Wine Carriage is wine country's most unique and exciting wine tasting adventure. Travel through the vines in a horse-drawn carriage to tastings at some of Sonoma County's finest wineries. Youll also be treated to a wine cave tour, a barrel tasting and a sumptuous gourmet lunch. Experience an insider's view of the history of the valley, the lifecycle of the vines and the winemaking process. Enjoy the relaxed pace and exquisite wines, while leaving the traffic far behind. For reservations, call (707) 849-8989 or go to www.thewinecarriage.com

LOXTON CELLARS [Glen Ellen]


Reserve Tastings 1pm daily (reservation required) Enjoy a relaxed, seated tasting in the Reserve Room with a selection of limited wines not being featured in the tasting room. Walkabout with the Winemaker Tour Saturday & Sunday at 10:30am (reservation required) Get behind scenes with winemaker, Chris Loxton, to experience whats happening in the vineyard and at the winery followed by a private sit-down tasting. 11466 Dunbar Road, Glen Ellen CA 95442 (707) 935-7221 | www.loxtonwines.com

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED UNIQUE WINERY EXPERIENCES


FERRARI-CARANO VINEYARDS & WINERY [Healdsburg] Scentiments Learn how to identify aromas in wine BENZIGER WINERY [Glen Ellen] Biodynamic Vineyard Tram Tour $35pp www.ferrari-carano.com, 1-800-831-0381 $20pp Reservations: 24 hour advance notice, www.benziger.com, (707) 935-4527

UNIQUE WINERY EXPERIENCES


KUNDE FAMILY ESTATE [Kenwood]
Take wine tasting to a whole new level with this one of a kind experience, set 1,400 feet above the Sonoma Valley floor, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the 1,850-acre estate. Rocky, mountaintop terrain has been transformed into a beautiful, shaded wooden deck overlooking fifth-generation sustainably farmed property. Your job here is to relax and take in the view, while sipping a refreshing glass of Kunde Family Estate wine. This is a unique opportunity to literally drink in the beauty of the famed Sonoma Valley wine country. $40pp Reservations suggested book at Kunde.com or call (707) 282-1537 Subject to availability 9825 Sonoma Highway Kenwood CA 95452

CHRISTOPHER CREEK [Healdsburg]


Christopher Creek Winery is a small, family owned winery with a long history of producing award-winning, estatebottled and hand-crafted wines, with annual production around 4,000 cases. Visit this warm and rustic tasting room, relax and enjoy a glass of wine pool side, or bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the patio overlooking our rolling vineyards, creek and surrounding vistas. 641 Limerick Lane, Healdsburg CA 95448 (707) 433-2001 | christophercreek.com

TRUETT HURST [Healdsburg]


Savor the big, bold, textured wines with lots of spice and jammy fruit in one of the most comfortable and relaxing wineries in the valley. Sit in the Adirondack chairs down by the creek where you may see Steelhead or Coho salmon or hang out on the patio and listen to music while enjoying the sublime scenery of Dry Creek. Enjoy a picnic or a slow lunch in the olive grove. Youll always be served by the friendly hosts who will make you feel right at home in this inviting tasting room. 5610 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg CA 95448 (707) 433-9545 | www.truetthurst.com

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED UNIQUE WINERY EXPERIENCES


DELOACH VINEYARDS [Santa Rosa] Experience Pinot, The Magic of Wine & Mustard, Blending Experience, Taste of Terroir and more! DRY CREEK VINEYARD [Healdsburg] Meritage The Art of the Blend Create your own Bordeaux-style blend. Visit the website for details www.deloachvineyards.com $45pp Saturdays & Sundays by appointment 1-800-864-9463 x103 | www.drycreekvineyard.com

CULINARY ADVENTURES
VJB VINEYARDS & CELLAR [Kenwood]
At VJB, the experience is so much more than exceptional wines. Here, the wines are meant to be savored with food, and shared with family and friends. The Belmonte family has taken great care to recreate a welcoming Italian piazza where guests can sit back and enjoy authentic panini, cheese and salumi boards, homemade pastas, panini and sandwiches in addition to the wood-fired pizzas, Enricos Ribs, rotisserie chicken and Italian sausage sandwiches. Dont miss the chocolate and gelato shop for a taste of something sweet. 60 Shaw Avenue, Kenwood CA 95452 (707) 833-2300 | www.vjbcellars.com

CHALK HILL ESTATE [Healdsburg]


Culinary Tour After a brief excursion through the Estate vineyards, guests are led through the culinary garden where organically-farmed produce is the inspiration for Executive Chef Didier Ageorges culinary artistry. At the Pavilion, overlooking the equestrian center with panoramic views of the Chalk Hill valley, you will enjoy a seated tasting of our wines paired with small plates prepared by Chef Didier. 2-1/2 hours, starting at $100 per person. By appointment Wednesday through Saturday at 2 p.m. 10300 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg CA 95448 (707) 657-4837 | www.chalkhill.com

VALLEY OF THE MOON WINERY [Glen Ellen]


Experience a true slice of the Sonoma lifestyle with Valley of the Moons Perfect Pizza and Wine Pairing! Savor our award-winning wines with signature pizzas pulled straight from our outdoor, wood-burning pizza oven. Available by appointment only, this fun and unique culinary adventure is the perfect topping to a day in wine country. To get your slice of the Sonoma lifestyle, visit www.valleyofthemoon.com or call us at (707) 939-4510. Well keep the fire burning for you. 777 Madrone Road, Glen Ellen CA 95442 (707) 939-4500 | www.valleyofthemoonwinery.com

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED CULINARY ADVENTURES


KENDALL-JACKSON VINEYARD ESTATES [Fulton] The state-of-the-art culinary center at Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate utilizes the herbs, vegetables and flowers from the working gardens, providing visitors varous food and wine pairing options with fresh-picked, seasonal tastes created specifically to pair with wines being served a real farm-to-table experience. (707) 571-8100 | www.kj.com

Eastside Bunch

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

CULINARY ADVENTURES
RAMEKINS CULINARY SCHOOL [Sonoma]
Immerse yourself in the essence of Wine Country with an exclusive Culinary Retreat at Ramekins. The intensive 2, 3 or 4day Retreats, limited to 10 students, include instruction on advanced culinary techniques featuring locally sourced ingredients. Short on time? Visit the website for individual cooking classes from basic kitchen skills to sushi or homemade pastas. Theres nothing like rolling up your sleeves and getting a little messy in the kitchen. There is no better way to experience the bounty of Sonoma Wine Country. 450 West Spain Street, SonomaCA95476 (707) 933-0450 | www.ramekins.com

PARADISE RIDGE WINERY [Kenwood]


Herb & Wine Program Indulge in a sense-ational wine country experience. Learn about herbs and their profile flavors Bitter, Bright, Savory and Sweet and what they can bring out in the wines. $15 tasting fee for this unique tour. Come explore the gardens and this fun program to learn about food and wine pairing through herbs! To reserve your spot for this one of a kind program call (707) 282-9020 or email Annette@prwinery.com 8860 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood CA 95452 (707) 282-9020 | www.prwinery.com

J VINEYARDS & WINERY [Healdsburg]


The Bubble Room remains the premier tasting experience in the Russian River Valley. In a beautifully appointed, full-service tasting salon, you and your guests will enjoy an exclusive threecourse meal including rare library and small-production wines, served with delicious, organic and locally-sourced fare. OfferedThursday through Sunday with seatings at 11 a.m., 12, 2and 3 p.m. Guests over 21 are welcome. $75 per person (Club J members receive a discounted price). Reservations are strongly encouraged, and required for groups of 8 or more. 11447 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg CA 95448 (707) 431-5430 | www.jwine.com

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED CULINARY ADVENTURES


PARTAKE BY K-J [Healdsburg] Partake by K-J offers a mix-and-match approach to bites and flights. Seasonal bites driven by organic gardens and Sonoma County's culinary artisans are designed to highlight the unique character of each grape variety come mix, match and explore. Educational classes are also available. Reservations: OpenTable.com, (707) 433-6000, @partakebykj.com

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Eastside Bunch

BREWERIES/DISTILLERIES
BEAR REPUBLIC BREWING COMPANY [Healdsburg]
Located in Wine Countrys Sonoma County, on the corner of Healdsburgs historic downtown square, Bear Republic Brewing Company offers award-winning food and world class, handcrafted ales. Established in 1995 by third and fourth generation Sonoma County residents, the Norgrove family invites you to come and discover their diverse menu, family friendly atmosphere and more than 14 freshly brewed beers on tap. A relaxed, casual dining experience is what you should expect on your visit. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. 345 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg CA 95448 (707) 433-BEER | www.bearrepublic.com

CARNEROS BREWING COMPANY [Sonoma]


The Carneros Brewing Company is ideally located in the heart of Wine Countrys Carneros region. The staff is passionate about beer and can highlight the different aromas and flavors found in each. Start with a self-guided tour that begins at the hop trellises outsde in the beer garden the foundation of their craft brews. Or, go straight to the Tap Room Bar and order a beer flight or a pint. The Beer Garden is an outdoor oasis where visitors can relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings while enjoying their small-batch craft brews. Local food trucks are there on weekends. 22985 Burndale Road, Sonoma CA 95476 (707) 938-1880 | carnerosbrews.com SPIRIT WORKS DISTILLERY [Sebastopol]
Gin | Sloe Gin | Vodka | Wheat Whiskey | Rye Whiskey

Experience the grain-to-glass process firsthand and taste the gin. Tour provides a unique opportunity to see firsthand what goes into making craft spirits. Learn the details of each step in the distillation process: milling, mashing, fermenting, finishing and afterward enjoy a guided tasting. Tours Friday, Saturday & Sunday at 4pm $15pp, ages 21+ only Located in The Barlow, 6790 McKinley St #100, Sebastopol (707) 634-4793 | www.spiritworksdistillery.com

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED BREWERIES/DISTILLERIES


LAGUNITAS BREWING COMPANY [Petaluma] Tours are free, no reservations needed: Tasting Tours' Monday thru Friday at 3pm Brewery walking tour schedule: Wed-Fri at 3 & 5pm Sat-Sun 1, 3 & 5pm (707) 769-4495 www.Lagunitas.com 1280 N McDowell Blvd, Petaluma

Eastside Bunch

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

BREWERIES/DISTILLERIES
PROHIBITION SPIRITS [Sonoma]
Discover a new side of Wine Country and tastehighly acclaimed, small-batch, artisanal spirits right at the source. Their Indigenous Spirits Lab is an intimate location to explore the aromas, flavors, textures and feelings of their craft spirits.Whether you are a novice or aficionado, they will guide you through an insightful tasting to help you better appreciate and understand artisanal spirits. The daily selection of hand-crafted spirits changes based on the distilling schedule and some of the spirits are seasonal or small-batches that can only be experienced and sold at the distillery. For the ideal experience, reservations are recommended. 21877 8thStreet East, Sonoma CA 95476 (707) 721-6394 | prohibition-spirits.com

RUTH McGOWANS BREWPUB [Cloverdale]


Love Ale? Come visit Ruth McGowans in Cloverdale. Theres a wonderful selection of house-made beers: Caroline's Blonde, Ruths Citrus Wheat, McGowan's Dry Irish Stout, Floyd IPA, Monster Brown, and the flagship beer, Cloverdale Ale. A fine selection of local wines and Ace ciders are also available along with a full menu. Check the website for live music dates. If you play an instrument, join in on the jam sessions the first and third Thursday of every month, 6 to 9 p.m. 131 E. First Street, Cloverdale CA 95425 (707) 894-9610 | ruthmcgowansbrewpub.com

NORTH BAY BREWERY TOURS


North Bay Brewery Tours is a tour bus company that specializes in guided tours of local craft beer destinations, but we can also help you out with any of your transportation needs. Our buses are equipped with Beer on Tap and our knowledgeable drivers and guides handle all the details so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. Ask us about our VIP Brewery Tours, Brewery Bus Tours, and more! northbaybrewerytours.com info@northbaybrewerytours.com (707) 60-BREWS / (707) 602-7397

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED BREWERIES/DISTILLERIES


WOODFOUR BREWING COMPANY [Sebastopol]
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Located in the new Barlow complex, Woodfour offers an extensive selection of draft and bottled beers paired with excellent food sourced locally for a completely different experience than your average brew pub. Come and see the 'World of Beer' wall showcasing 104 different beer styles. (707) 823-3144 | www.woodfourbrewing.com

Eastside Bunch

PERFECT PICNICS
MARTORANA FAMILY WINERY [Healdsburg]
Spend the day at Martorana Family WineryBring your own picnic or call ahead to order the Martorana Memory Experience Picnic Basket Lunch: Gourmet sandwich, pasta or potato salad, fruit salad, specialty olives and finish with a cookie or brownie. Picnics include a bottle of Martorana Family wine and water. Blanket and picnic basket are provided while youre here. Take the time to play a little bocce and relax next to Dry Creek. Picnic for 2 is $50. 24-hour notice is required. For reservations contact: wendy@martoranafamilywinery.com 5956 W Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg CA 95448 (707) 433-1909 | www.martoranafamilywinery.com

CLINE FAMILY WINERY [Sonoma]


A visit here is unlike any other: Lush green lawns surrounded by the glorious fragrant blossoms of more than 5,000 rose bushes, ever-changing gardens, koi fish, turtles, bird aviary, solar energy exhibit and the California Missions Museum. Pack your gourmet goodies and, with your reservation for up to six guests, receive a Cline picnic blanket, a bottle of wine, space on the Great Lawn, and a 15% discount on any wine purchases for the day for your group. Reservations are required (707) 940-4061. $40 plus tax for groups of six and under. Restrictions apply, call for details. Ask about the Syrah Hill Experience! 24737 Arnold Drive, Sonoma CA 95476 (707) 940-4000 | www.clinecellars.com

ARMIDA WINERY [Healdsburg]


There are three picnic areas, all with the gorgeous panoramic view of the Russian River appellation and the Mayacamas mountain range beyond! Come play on the beautiful bocce court A great way to spend the afternoon! The full-size bocce court is ideally situated against the stunning backdrop of the beautiful Russian River Valley. Overlooking rosebeds, ponds, vineyards and the valley below, youll have a hard time keeping your eye on the ball, but competition gets pretty fierce as the wine flows and the good times roll. 2201 Westside Road, Healdsburg CA 95448 (707) 433-2222 | www.armida.com

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED PICNIC AREAS


PARADISE RIDGE WINERY [Santa Rosa] Wines & Sunsets on Wednesday evenings, May-October with food vendors, live music, spectacular sunsets LEDSON WINERY [Santa Rosa] The Gourmet Marketplace has everything you need for a true Sonoma Wine Country picnic! www.prwinery.com (707) 528-9463 www.ledson.com (707) 537-3810

Eastside Bunch

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

PERFECT PICNICS
LARSON FAMILY WINERY [Sonoma]
Bring your family, friends and even the dog to enjoy a picnic at Larson Family Winery. There is a spacious area that overlooks the Estate Chardonnay vineyards and is the perfect place to enjoy a sunny afternoon. Play bocce, horse shoes, ladder golf or corn hole on the wonderful lawn area nestled in the picnic tables. Reservations are appreciated for groups of 8 or more. Call (707) 938-3031 x 25 23355 Millerick Road, Sonoma CA 95476 (707) 938-3031 | www.larsonfamilywinery.com

KORBEL CALIFORNIA CHAMPAGNE [Guerneville]


A visit to Korbel is not complete without a stop for lunch or a snack at the Korbel Delicatessen and Market with outdoor patio and deck seating among the redwoods. Winery Tour The highlight of any trip to Korbel is an extended tour through the historic champagne cellars, the antique winery and history museum ending with a tasting of their finest products. The Garden Tour Planted in the 1880s, the gardens are a magnificent array of colors, textures and aromas. Weather permitting the garden is open mid April through mid October. 13250 River Road, Guerneville CA 95446 (707) 824-7000 | www.korbel.com Celebrate responsibly.

VIANSA WINERY & MARKETPLACE [Sonoma]


Experience all that Viansa with lunch and a glass of wine on the terrace overlooking the wetlands. The winerys marketplace offers specialty foods, including sandwiches, salads, artisan cheeses and desserts. The wetlands are as unique as the wines and spectacular setting, home to canvasback ducks, great blue herons and other birds migrating along the Pacific Flyway. Tasting bar is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, no reservations required. Private tastings available by appointment, call 1-800-995-4740 for more information. 25200 Arnold Drive, Sonoma CA 95476 1-800-995-4740 | www.viansa.com

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED PICNIC AREAS


CHATEAU ST. JEAN [Kenwood] www.chateaustjean.com Purchase picnic items and enjoy a fabulous lunch on the patio or on the lawn in front of the majestic Chateau (707) 833-4134 HANNA WINERY & VINEYARDS [Healdsburg] www.hannawinery.com Cheese plates, boxed lunches and other food & wine experiences available in the picnic area or on the veranda (707) 431-4310 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Eastside Bunch

OUTDOOR ESCAPADES
VINTAGE AIRCRAFT [Sonoma]
Dawn your helmet and step back in time with a flight in our 1942 convertible-in-the-sky, open cockpit Stearman biplane. Breathtaking vistas of lush vineyards, majestic Pacific Ocean and stunning San Francisco skyline, all with the wind in your hair and a smile on your face (AKA perma grin). And, if youre audacious spirit speaks to you, loop-and-roll the finish of your flight! P40 Warhawk, P51 Mustang & AT6 Texan flights also available. Call (707) 938-2444 or vintageaircraft.com for tours and pricing. Vintage Aircraft Company at Sonoma Valley Airport 23982 Arnold Drive, Sonoma CA 95476

GETAWAY ADVENTURES [Santa Rosa]


Tour the country lanes to smaller family owned wineries guided by local experts with wine education experience. Visit the Wine Countrys hidden gems on mostly flat and easy routes, with small and like-minded groups lots of fun and very relaxing. Gourmet picnic lunch and van support are included. Getaway Adventures will plan it all, so you dont have to. Kayaking, hiking and Hidden Van Tours are also available. 2228 Northpoint Parkway, Santa Rosa CA 95407 1-800-499-2453 | getawayadventures.com

SAFARI WEST [Santa Rosa]


Explore the Sonoma Serengeti on an African safari alongside romping herds of exotic wildlife or relax in a luxury safari tent under the gaze of a graceful giraffe. Various packages are available. Wild Nights in Wine Country includes an overnight stay in a luxurious safari tent, vehicle safari tour, dinner for two at Savannah Grill, a bottle of Francis Ford Coppola wine plus complimentary wine tasting session for two at Francis Ford Coppolas Alexander Valley Tasting Room. 115 Porter Creek Road, Santa Rosa CA 95404 (707) 579-2551 | www.safariwest.com

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED OUTDOOR ESCAPADES


RUSSIAN RIVER ADVENTURES [Healdsburg]
Self-guided floats through vast vineyards & majestic redwoods (707) 433-5599 www.russianriveradventures.com www.WineCountryThisWeek.com (707) 996-3166 | www.quarryhillbg.org

QUARRYHILL BOTANICAL GARDENS [Glen Ellen]


Asian botanical gardens

Eastside Bunch

OUTDOOR ESCAPADES
SONOMA CANOPY TOURS [Occidental]
Enjoy this unique course that features a zipline over 800 feet long. Walk sky bridges high in the air. Marvel at panoramic forest views and deep ravines. Discover the world-famous California Coastal Redwoods in a way you never imagined. Sonoma Canopy Tours its high adventure thats green, family-friendly and educational. Children 10 years of age & 70 pounds. Max weight 250 lbs. 6250 Bohemian Highway, Occidental CA 95465 1-888-494-7868 | www.sonomacanopytours.com

SONOMA VALLEY BIKE TOURS [Sonoma]


Discover why the town of Sonoma is an ideal place to start your wine country bike ride - with a network of quiet country roads that lead to the best local wineries. And with three levels of support to choose from, theres an experience suited for every visitor and every budget. Join one of the Guided Bike Tours hosted by a knowledgeable Tour Guide, or go Self-Guided or Rent Bikes with the aide of the route maps and local advice. 520 Broadway, Sonoma CA 95476 (707) 996-2453 | sonomavalleybiketours.com

UP & AWAY BALLOONING [Windsor]


Come see Sonoma County like no other way, soaring above it in a hot air balloon! Up & Away Ballooning offers the most personalized experience. And, just when you thought is was over, head over to Kendall-Jackson Winery for a one-of-a-kind gourmet bruch. Up & Away Ballooning carries fewer passengers per balloon. The fleet of beautiful, brightly colored balloons can accommodate couples, families and groups. Wheelchair accessible. 1-800-711-2998 | flightinfo@up-away.com www.up-away.com

OTHER NOT TO BE MISSED OUTDOOR ESCAPADES


WINE COUNTRY CYCLERY [Sonoma] (707) 996-6800 | www.winecountrycyclery.com Bike rentals: Comfort and Road. Rentals include a helmet, lock and maps to local wineries and discount coupons for tastings. ARMSTRONG REDWOODS [Guerneville] Enjoy a leisurly stroll through magnificent Coastal Redwoods www.parks.ca.gov

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Eastside Bunch

NORTHERN SONOMA COUNTY


Wine Tasting in
TO MENDOCINO COAST T TO EUR E UR REKA A EUREKA
D OA BR KER OC CR

RUSSIAN RIVER, ALEXANDER VALLEY AND DRY CREEK VALLEY

R VE RI . RD

Wattle Creek Creek Wattle

Pendleton Pendleton Estate Estate


DUT CH ER CREEK RD
ST I
RD .

IA SS RU

F ritz W Winery inery Fritz

T TOPEL OPEL WINERY


Banshee W Wines ines Blanchard Family Wines Blanchard F amily W ines C. Donatiello Donatiello Cartograph W Wine Cartograph ine Chateau F elice Chateau Felice Davis Family Family Davis Edmeades Edmeades Front S treet W ineries: Street Wineries: Front Ferrari-Carano Seasons Seasons Ferrari-Carano ine Wine Wine Shop of the V Vine Cellars Hauck Cellars Hawley T asting R oom & Gallery Gallery Hawley Tasting Room Holdredge Holdredge Young R ob t Y ober Robert oung
LAT EF PIN

101
JR Rickards ickards
CH IR NT IA

Lake k Sonoma S ono no a noma

Sbragia Sbrag gia Family Family iy Vineyards Viney i ard ds

Silver Silver Oak k Cellars Cellars

Frick Frick

FERRARI-CARANO FERRARICA ARANO NO DUTCHER DUTCHER CROSSING


NT S POINT STEWART

WAL

LIN G

Geyser yser Peak G ey Peak k Pedroncelli P edr d onc celli


ON

Palmeri Palmer almer meri 12 1 28 Route Rou ut te 128 Winery Wine ner ery

Locals L ocals Meeker Meeker Mercury Mercury Terroirs T erroirs

128
DeL e or o imier DeLorimier

TO MENDOCINO COAST

Bella Bella Preston Preston n Zichichi hichi

BR ID DG E

Gustafson Family Gustafson F amily Vineyard Vineyards ds

David Caffaro Da vid C affaro a Talty alty Y Yoakim oakim Bridge Bridge ge e T

FORC FORCHINI
Amphora A mphor p a Family F amily ily Wineries Wiineries W Kokomo Kk Papapietro P erry Papapietro Perry eterson P Peterson Estate Trattore T rattore Estate K achina Kachina
DRY

YO AK

Chateau Cha teau Diana Truett Truett Hurst


Pech Pech Merle Merle

rione V Vineyards Trione T iney yards &W Winery inery Clos D uB ois Du Bois
AIN VER SOU

Draxton Dr axton
S S ER YS GE
LYTTON L YTTO YTT Y ON STATION ST TATION T ON N RD. RD RD.

T Trentadue rentadue ue

Hudson S treet W ineries: Street Wineries: Keverson J Keverson KendallJackson Kendall-Jackson rema La C Crema Longboard Vineyards Vineyards Longboard M alm (BY APPT. ONL ONLY LY) Malm M anzanita Creek Creek Manzanita Mueller M ueller Winery Winery Murphy-Goode M urphy-Goode Optima Partake K-J Partake by by K -J Pezzi King Pezzi K ing Portalupi P ortalupi R amey Wine Wine Cellars Cellars Ramey Roadhouse W inery Roadhouse Winery

Russian River Wine Co. River W ine C o. Sanglier Cellars Sanglier C ellars Sapphire Sapphire Hills Hills Seghesio Seghesio Selby S elby Skewis S Stark tark at at Garagiste Garagiste Healdsburg Healdsburg S tephen & Walker Walker Stephen S toneStreet StoneStreet T hirty F our Nor th W ine M erchant Four North Wine Merchant Thirty T humbprint Thumbprint T To oad d Hollo w Hollow Toad V aldez Valdez W aterfront T asting Room: Room: Waterfront Tasting W illiamson Williamson W indsor V ineyards Vineyards Windsor

R VE RI
D.

IM M

C AN

ERV YS GE

RY NE IN DW RE

R aymond Burr Burr Raymond

Gpfrich Gpfrich Martorana Martorana Quivira Quivira

Unti Unti

Rued

Francis Ford F rancis F ord C Coppola oppola

S Sonoma Stryker tryker Sonoma onoma

ILLE

RD.

RD .

Michel-Schlumberger Michel-Schlumberger

K INE CREE

Mounts Mounts

Passalacqua Passalacqua

A. Rafanelli Rafanelli

. GE Mauritson Mauritson on ERT BRID MB Mazzocco M azzocco LA Amista Amista

Lambert Bridge Bridge Lambert V Vineyard ineyard of Pasterick Pasterick M ontemaggiore Montemaggiore

JW Wine ine

HEMBR EL

Tyler Wines John T yler W y ines by b y Bacigalupi ig Vineyard V neyard

Notab ble es Notables Kiln Hop Kiln Rochioli R ochio olii

Mer e riam m Merriam

N.

LK HI CHA

Matrix Matrix
IDE STS WE

AR AT A BROO L KS LAKEW RD OO . D

RODNEY RODNEY RO STRONG T TR


OLD

LL RD.

E CR

Te eldeschi Teldeschi

Ridge/Lytton R idg idge/L ge/ /L Lytt y on n Sp n Springs Springs

Dry C Dry Creek reek Vineyard Vineyard

Wilson W lson n M anzanit ita ta a Manzanita C reek Creek UPTick UPT ick DaV DaVero Ver Ve eo Phail Family Ma acP Family y MacPhail Mill Mill C Creek reek

Stonestreet S tonestr one eet DE XAN Medlock Medlock Ames Ames ALE Jordan J Jor d dan S tu t uhlmuller m muller Stuhlmuller hite Oak White W A Alexander lexander Valley Valley Rock S oda R Soda ock V Vineyards ineyard ds Johnsons Johnson SIMI SI Alexander Alexander Hanna Valley Wines Valley W ines

D. L. R R VA

Ha H awkes kes Hawkes

EK
K

Everett E verett Ridge Ridge

RD
RD .

RG UR URG SBURG ALDSB HEALD HEA HE

E CR RY .D W

Grov ove S tr reet e Grove Street S Saini aini


EY NL KI

Stone Field Field S tone Lancast er Estate Estate Lancaster V rit/Archipel Vrit/Archipel

128
Starlite Starlite Vineyards V ineyards

CHRISTOPHER CHRISTOPHER CREEK


Foppiano F oppiano ano o Ac corn Acorn
CK RIC ME LIM

ARMIDA ARMID A
De Montanya D e La M ontanya Twomey Twomey

Mietz Mietz

Limerick Limer ick Lane Chr Ch istie Christie Windsor W nds Oaks ndsor
IEW LV HIL

LOS
Y. HW OD RD WOST S ARR RED

N.

RD

S IGO AM

VML

Arista Arista

Dom D om m Whitney W hitney ey Gr acianna Gracianna a

TASTING T ASTING ING NG R ROOM OOM M ON N THE GREEN G OR GREE EN N RD RR ER R VE R RIV


SO WINDS

Chalk Hill Hill

RD.

101

FU ULTO N RD

Armstr Armstrong rong Woods W oods


S RD.

Williams Williams Selyem Selyem Porter Porter C Creek reek T Thomas homas mas G George eorge Estates Estates

Mueller Mueller

C Copain op opain

D. OR SHIL

N ASA PLE

E. T AV

T GH AU FR

Gary Gary Farrell Farrell


OOD ARMSTRONG W

K KORBEL ORBEL

Moshin Moshin

Sonoma County nty RT BLVD PO Airport t AIR


RD

SONOMA CUTRER
SLUSSER

STARR

D OL

D OO DW RE

Y. HW

Kendall-Jackson Kendall-Jackson Wine Wine Center Center

Russian H Hill ill Estate Estate

OLD WORLD WINERY WINE NERY


Tara Tara Bella Bella Harvest Harvest Moon Moon Hook k & Ladder
ER RIV
RD.

OLIVET OL

VINE HILL RD .

. RD. GUNA RD LAG LAGUNA

TO BODEGA BAY

RIV

ER

Har Hartford tford F Family amily y W Winery iner i y

MIR RA AB BE EL L RD.

. RD

MAR MARTIN TIN R RAY AY


Emtu Estate

Woodenhead Woode o en nh head Joseph J seph Swan Swan Pellegrini

Martinelli Martinelli

Monte Monte Rio Rio


MAIN ST.
EMIA BOH

116
Marimar Torres

FU UL LT T TO ON N RD

ATASCADERO A TASC ASCADERO DERO CREEK CR GUERRILLA WINE E GUERRILL G A RUSSIAN RIVER Iron Horse

Inman Inman Family Family ily Sunc Sunc

OLI T W OLIVET W.

Ba Battaglini ttaglini
RD.

PINE

Eric Er c Kent Ken nt Novy Novy Colagrossi C olag olagr g ossi ssi Robert Robert Rue Carol Car roll Shelt Sh Shelton on Sidur S Siduri Vinoteca V inoteca
R RD .

S ING I PR TS ES KW R MA

CHATEAU CHA ATEA ATEA EAU ADOR ADOR R

Y. KW EP ROV IN G NTA FOU LN. ELE STE

C OF

FEY

VE DA AN EL EV CL

OCCIDENTAL L RD.

GRATON RD. R

MA

LLI INE RT

DELOACH LOACH

E VILL RNE GUE

DARGENZIO D A ARGENZIO NZIO


Sheldon/Krutz Sheldon/Krutz

Sebastopol Sebastopol V Vineyards ineyards Dutton-Goldfield Dutton-Goldfield Red Car Eme Emeritus E eritus Emeri D&L Cari Carinalli ina alli lli

DUT DUTTON TON EST ESTATE TA ATE

River Ri Road R d

Dehlinger Deh D hliing ger

GRATON GRA ATON RIDG RIDGE .


EI FR

RD

RAILROAD RAILROAD SQUARE SQUARE


L Lost ost C Canyon an nyon Station S tation 1870 8

ANCIENT ANCI A CIENT O OAK AK CELLARS CELLARS RS


Cellars Cellars rs Of Of Sonoma Sonoma
S 4th 4th ST

inside C Corrick orrick ks

Lynmar

TO HWY. 1

MOR R

Freeman

TAFT T AFT STREET WINERY M A. STA L STA. MILL HOOK & L LADDER ADDER
W TER WA TE TRO T UG

Merry y Edwards d d
IS

HANNA

OCCIDENTAL RD.

3rd ST

BALLETTO BALLET A TTO 12

NU L AVENUE SEBASTOPO

TO SONOMA NOMA MA EY VALLEY

h ST 4th

MONTGO

Joseph Jo oseph P Phelps helps help


LD GO
RID GE

THE B BARLOW BARLOW Claypoo Claypool yp La F Follette ollette C Cellars ll M MacPhail acPhail F Family amily opening soon M Marimar arimar mar Estate Estate OCCIDENTAL O OC CIDENT NT TAL ROAD ROAD Wind Wind Gap Gap opening soon

Littorai Wines

DE URNSI BU

TO HWY 101

TO SANTA ROSA/ SAN FRANCISCO

101

N HW Y

MERY

Dry Creek Valley


Dry Creek wine country is one of the smallest enclosed American Viticultural Areas in the nation, only 16 miles long and two miles wide. With 9,300 acres of vineyard along this beautiful valleys floor, Dry Creek is a must see for first-time and veteran wine lovers. Dry Creek boasts 63 wineries producing a diverse range of wines from the famed Zinfandel to Bordeaux and even Mediterranean varietals. Dont let its small size fool you Dry Creek winemakers have been growing grapes and making great wines for more than 140 years! THINGS TO DO Lake Sonoma Hatchery 3333 Skaggs Springs Road, Geyserville (707) 433-9483, www.parks.sonoma.net

Located in the beautiful foothills of Northern Sonoma County, Lake Sonoma is surrounded by vineyards and land rich in history. Here, visitors can observe the operation of the hatchery and see displays which describe the life cycle of the coho salmon, steelhead and chinook. Rooted in traditions as rich as the Dry Creek Soil, Dry Creek Olive Oil Company is your destination for artisan, very fine, extra-virgin olive oils.
Dry Creek Olive Oil, 4791 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg (707) 431-7200, www.DryCreekOliveCompany.com

Celebrate the season in the beautiful gardens at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery.

R CREEK RD

Little Country Store with overflowing shelves and a deli chock full of handmade, gourmet picnic items, the Oakville Grocery is an absolute MUST.
Dry Creek General Store, (707) 433-4171 3495 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg

PICNIC FARE Oakville Grocery, 124 Matheson Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-3200, www.OakvilleGrocery.com

IAN RUSS

Lake Sonoma
FERRARI-CARANO
TO COAST
STEWARTS POINT

DUTC HE

101
CHIA NTI RD

I AST
LLI NG

D.

RIVER

Hope Merrill/ Hope Bosworth House

BRID G

So much more than just a corner store, established in 1881, this is also a full-service deli and beer garden with live music occassionally, spectacular views and a wealth of information on wine tasting, tours and even fishing!
LODGING Grape Leaf Inn, 539 Johnson Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-8140, www.grapeleafinn.com

WA

128
CAN Y
ON

RD

Lake Sonoma Hatchery

DUTCHER CROSSING FORCHINI TRUETT TT T HURST


Dry Creek Olive Oil
E. RVILLE AV GEYSE
RD. REEK DRY C
C RY W. D

YOAK IM

N RUSSIA

RIVE

A picturesque Queen Anne Victorian bed and breakfast, the Grape Leaf Inn seamlessly blends modern decor with timeless antiques. Gracious staff provide the best hospitality in this relaxing, romantic environment.
Hope Merrill & Hope Bosworth B&B 21253 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-3356, www.hope-inns.com

Once an early stage-coach stop, these now two strikingly restored Queen Anne Craftsman homes welcome you with open arms. Truly where wine and romance intertwine!
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Driving Time: 4 minutes From Ferrari-Carano to Dutcher Crossing .2 miles to Forchini 3.5 miles Truett Hurst .4 miles Total 4.1 miles

DGE BERT BRI AM

Dry Creek General YTTON SPRINGS Store


L

E RE

. RD. ER VAL XAND ALE

D. KR

Dry Creek Valley

21

Inside Villa Fiore, the magnificent Italian-style villa that serves as Ferrari-Caranos hospitality center in Dry Creek Valley, guests will find a world of tasting opportunities. On the main floor wine shop and tasting room, guests may taste many new releases in addition to select wines that are only available at the winery. Take your wine and browse the shops selection of wine country gifts and souvenirs, including wine and cookbooks, housewares, apparel and home dcor. Downstairs in the cellar, the luxurious Enoteca offers guests Ferrari-Caranos Limited Release and Reserve Wines. Try a flight of lovely Russian River Valley Chardonnays, or compare the two delicious PreVail Cabernet Sauvignons that hail from the winerys two mountain ranches in Alexander Valley. Guests are welcome to stroll the enclosed garden, which has a meandering path and foot bridges along a rippling stream that empty into fish-filled ponds. The garden has more than 2,000 species of trees and shrubs, all marked with informative identification tags, including some of the few successfully growing Portuguese cork trees in the area. Art lovers will also find bronze sculptures from world-renowned artists such as Dennis Smith, Douglas Van Howd and Jane DeDecker throughout the gardens.
By Michelle J. Baker

DID YOU KNOW... Ferrari-Carano has a wine shop in Healdsburg? Seasons of the Vineyard Wine Shop features wines from Ferrari-Carano and Lazy Creek Vineyards fantastic Anderson Valley Pinot Noir as well as chocolate from Scharffen Berger! SPECIAL TOURS AND PRIVATE TASTINGS Winery tours are free and by appointment, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. Or, try the ultimate-fun private tastings by appointment, five days a week, 11 a.m. or 2:30 p.m., price varies. Call (707) 433-6700 or email tourinformation@ferrari-carano.com. WHAT TO TASTE Upstairs, try Pinot Grigio, Fum Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Siena. Limited Release and Reserve Wines are available in the Enoteca: Vineyard Select Chardonnays, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Trsor, PreVail West Face, PreVail Back Forty, and two dessert wines, Eldorado Gold and Eldorado Noir.

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery


Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg www.ferrari-carano.com For Tours and Private Tastings, call (707) 433-6700

Seasons of the Vineyard Wine Shop


Open Tuesday - Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

113 Plaza Street, Healdsburg (707) 431-2222

22 Dry Creek Valley

Mention this ad to receive one Classic Wine Tasting with the purchase of one Classic Wine Tasting at regular price.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Dutcher Crossing Winery has everything a wine-loving visitor could hope for delicious, reasonably priced wines, a beautiful tasting room staffed with friendly and knowledgeable employees, a gorgeous picnic area with stunning views of Dry Creek Valley and a winery dog to welcome you. Lets start outside you pull into the parking lot and notice the beautiful landscaping surrounding the brown, barn-like building that is the winery and tasting room. A flagstone path leads you through a riot of colorful flowers to a breezeway that separates the winery from the tasting room. Glass doors provide a view into the barrel room and winery. Most likely, youll be greeted by Dutchess, a sweet, tail-wagging yellow Labrador Retriever, owned by Dutcher Crossing Winerys Proprietor, Debra Mathy. The tasting room is large, bright and airy, with high ceilings, glossy wood floors and tasteful dcor. A vintage high-wheeled bicycle (used as the winerys logo) sits against a wall, beckoning to be ridden (well, I was tempted to try to ride it, but I restrained myself). A selection of non-wine items is available for browsing as you sip and stroll around the room. During the week, there is a $5 tasting fee (waived for wine club members) to sample a variety of six wines, and on weekends a $10 reserve tasting is available as well. Winemaker Kerry Damskey does a wonderful job crafting these wines! I tasted a few wines during my visit and they were all excellent! Taste some great wines, pet a friendly dog, relax and By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench stay a while!

PLAN AHEAD The picnic area is lovely and its views of the Dry Creek Valley are breathtaking. There are six picnic tables under a wisteria-covered arbor. The colorful, fragrant landscaping and manicured lawns will make you want to kick off your shoes and stay a while. VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Port ANOTHER FUN FACT Winemaker, Kerry Damskey is known as the Indiana Jones of the wine world. LITTLE KNOWN FACT Dutcher Crossings self-appointed greeter and mascot Dutchess is a rescue dog. Owner, Debra Mathy transported her all the way back from Taiwan!

Dutcher Crossing Winery


Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

8533 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg www.dutchercrossingwinery.com (707) 431-2700 Look for Dutcher Crossing on Facebook. 10% off Visa Signature cardholders + complimentary tasting

Inquire to schedule a private tasting of our current releases and a selection of delicious local cheeses.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Dry Creek Valley

23

Set in the heart of Dry Creek Valley is a special estate called Truett Hurst. As you drive in, the sheep and goat pasture is the first indication that this is not in any way your average winery. Vineyards are flanked by habitat islands for birds and beneficial insects, and there are bluebird and owl boxes. Maintaining biodiversity and habitat are part of the farming philosophy here. Our commitment to responsible stewardship of this property is matched by the passion with which we handcraft awardwinning Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel Ros. The wines are made by fermenting grapes in small, open-top stain fermenters. The grapes are punched down during fermentation, rather than pumped over, allowing for gentle extraction of color and flavor components, while avoiding bitter tannins. Then wines are barrel aged in approximately 30% new French oak, until the flavors and structure of the wine perfectly balance. The result: big, bold, textured wines with lots of spice and jammy fruit. You can savor these wines in one of the most comfortable and relaxing wineries in the valley. You have a choice of Adirondack chairs down by the creek where you may see Steelhead or Coho salmon. Or hang out on the patio and listen to music while enjoying the sublime scenery of Dry Creek, or enjoy a picnic or a slow lunch in the olive grove. If this is not enough, youll always be served by the friendly hosts who will make you feel right at home in this inviting tasting room.

VARIETALS Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel Ros PLAN AHEAD On Saturdays and Sundays there is live music in the tasting room from 1:00-4:30 p.m. and on Saturdays a food pairing from the grill. FUN FACTS Relax and drink your wine in one of the Adirondack chairs down by the creek! Enjoy a picnic or a slow lunch in the olive grove. A 60-year-old olive grove, a four-acre chefs garden and the beautiful Dry Creek (which, by the way, is never dry) are all part of the estate.

Truett Hurst Winery


Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

5610 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg (707) 433-9545 www.truetthurst.com Follow Truett Hurst Winery on Facebook and Twitter.

24

Mention Day Trips and receive a complimentary tasting valued at $5.


Dry Creek Valley
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Just north of Healdsburg, a few miles out Dry Creek Road is a very special place, where youll feel like part of the family. Turn at the Bacchus sign, drive up the narrow, winding, rosemary-edged driveway and youve arrived at Forchini Vineyards & Winery. Forchini Vineyards & Winery is a family-run winery that produces only estate grown and bottled wines. Jim and Anita Forchini are the owners and Andrew Forchini is the vineyard manager. The building, surrounding picnic area and vineyards look as if they are right out of an Italian landscape stucco walls, tile roofs, splashing fountains, flower gardens and vineyard-striped hills delight the senses. Just wait until you taste the wines then your senses will be delighted even further! Once inside the main building, you feel as if you are in someones comfortable home. There is a large dining room, with a table ready to serve eight, a fully appointed kitchen, an office and the tasting room, which is decorated in warm tones, with faux-painted walls, wood flooring and a granite-topped oak bar. Behind the bar, a portrait of Bacchus, the God of wine, is the central focus of the tasting room. The wines at Forchini are very, very good they are continually garnering medals and accolades. For example, their 2010 Dry Creek Cabernet Sauvignon was selected as Best of Class at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair Professional Awards in 2013 and their 2010 Russian River Pinot Noir scored 90 points with the Beverage Institute in Chicago, IL. You really should visit this beautiful, comfortable, delicious winery! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench

FUN FACTS Forchini Vineyards has been growing premium varietal wine grapes since 1971. There are two properties the 67-acre Dry Creek Bench and the 24-acre Russian River Terrace. Theres a lovely outdoor tasting garden surrounded by vineyards Some of their Zinfandel vines are more than 100 years old! VARIETALS PRODUCED Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Bordeaux and Tuscan Style Red Blends

Forchini Vineyards & Winery


Open for Tasting from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday and by appointment 5141 Dry Creek Road Healdsburg, CA 95448 (707) 431-8886 | www.forchini.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/forchiniwinery

Mention Day Trips and receive 2 for 1 tasting and 10% discount .
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Dry Creek Valley

25

Downtown Healdsburg
Healdsburg is charming. Every brick, every flower box, every elegant shop and eclectic gallery, every five-star restaurant and cozy cafe on every single corner speak to this towns genuine individuality and down-to-earth-treasures. Downtown Healdsburg may be surrounded by bucolic rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, but around this age-old square, its hard to imagine being anywhere else more delightful. No matter what time of year, Healdsburg is a town for every season. Getaway Adventures Santa Rosa, (707) 568-3040 www.getawayadventures.com Bosworth & Son General Store 21060 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-3463, www.bosworthandson.com THINGS TO DO Healdsburg General Store 322 Center St., Healdsburg (707) 431-2784, www.healdsburggeneralstore.com

Healdsburg General Store harkens back to the original general stores of yesteryear, but adds a modern twist. Everything at Healdsburg General Store is well crafted, and at the same time, undeniably hip.
Raven Theater 115 North Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-6335, www.raventheater.org

Healdsburg Sip 'n Cycle: Visit the sites and learn local wine facts throughout downtown Healdsburg and into the vineyards on this innovative, healthy tour! Tours include a picnic and bocce.
Sonoma County Wine Library 139 Piper Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-3772, www.sonomalibrary.org/wine

Once a mortuary and even a buggy store Bosworth & Son General Store is an old-fashioned store meeting the Western-inspired needs of todays customer.
Healdsburg Ridge Hiking Trail Entry gate at Arabian Way and Bridle Path.

Where would we be without performing arts? A big, dark nowhere, that's where. Its thanks to cultural theaters like the Raven, that publics can experience entertainment that is beyond a moment's blip of distraction. Enjoy wonderful performances and expand your world.
Segway Tours (707) 953-3477, www.segwayofhealdsburg.com

One of Sonomas favorite nature preserves, take the Ridge Hiking Trail to the Fox Pond Run and The library has more than 5,000 books dealing with all aspects of making wine, some of them date even Fox Pond Overlook. A wonderful place to get some back to 1512! Knowledgeable librarians are on hand fresh air and exercise in wine country! (No pets.) LODGING to help guide you.
Veterans Memorial Beach, 13839 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg (707) 433-1625 Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza 112 Matheson Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-6991, www.healsburginn.com

Take a fun tour of Healdsburg on a rented Segway.

Truly one of Healdsburgs most favorite riverside beaches! Bring a picnic, kick off your shoes, or even borrow an inner tube. Nothing to do here but relax, breathe deeply and listen to the river roll on by.

Built in 1901, this classic California inn is located right on the Healdsburg Plaza. From summer concerts to holiday tree lightings, the town's best events take place right here.
Hotel Healdsburg 25 Matheson Street, Healdsburg 1-800-889-7188, www.hotelhealdsburg.com

SIMI WINERY
101

VALLEY ALEXANDER

RD

128

Chic, beautifully appointed Hotel Healdsburg is located on the square and is one of the premier Wine Country luxury lodgings in all Sonoma County.
Grape Leaf Inn 539 Johnson Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-8140, www.grapeleafinn.com

Raven Theater
ST NORTH

NORTH ST

Zin Restaurant

Campo Fina Seasons of the Scopa Vineyard yard Erickson n S Fine Art Gallery lllery AZA ST Dry Creek Kitchen Hotel Healdsburg
E.

HEALDSBURG GENERAL STORE


PLAZA ST

PL

A picturesque Queen Anne Victorian bed and breakfast, the Grape Leaf Inn seamlessly blends modern decor with timeless antiques. Gracious staff provide the best hospitality in this relaxing, romantic environment.
Belle de Jour Inn 16276 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg (707) 431-9777, www.belledujourinn.com

RG AV DSBU HEAL

Plaza a
ON MATHES

TOPEL WINERY
Options Gallery Op O
ST FITCH
EAST ST

ON MATHES

Historic Homes Walking Tours

Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza


ER CENT

A single-story Italianate built in the 1870s, Belle du Jour nestles on six acres of hilltop overlooking rolling hilltops and valleys.
Hope Merril & Hope Bosworth B&B 21253 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-3356, www.hope-inns.com

MILL

HAYDON

26

Driving Time: 5 minutes From Topel Winery to Simi Winery 2.2 miles Total 2.2 miles

Healdsburg

Once an early stage-coach stop, these now two strikingly restored Queen Anne Craftsman homes welcome you with open arms. Truly where wine and romance intertwine!
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

and into Geyserville

HEALDSBURG PLAZA WWW.HEALDSBURG.COM

in the heart of wine country!


FOOD

Geyserville Inn 21714 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-4343, www.GeyservilleInn.com First-class accomodations at more affordable prices

Campo Fina 330 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg (707) 395-4640, www.campo-fina.com

Scopa 109 A Plaza St. (on Healdsburg Plaza), Healdsburg (707) 433-5282, www.scopahealdsburg.com

A hot spot in Healdsburg wine, beer, wood-fired pizza and outdoor bocce!
Hoffman House Restaurant 21712 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville (707) 857-3264, www.hoffmanhousegeyserville.com

Rustic Italian fare, a local favorite


Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar 344 Center Street, Healdsburg Reservations recommended, (707) 473-0946 Dinner served daily, lunch Monday-Fridays

Charlie Palmers Dry Creek Kitchen Hotel Healdsburg, 317 Healdsburg Avenue (707) 431-0330, www.charliepalmer.com

Celebrating Sonoma's pioneering wines and spirits, celebrated Chef Charlie Palmer takes the best of our farm-fresh produce and culinary cradle and infuses it with his passion and trademark style.
Jimtown Store, 6706 Highway 128, Healdsburg (707) 433-1212, www.jimtown.com

Built more than 100 years ago, this cafe serves healthy breakfast and lunch with striking views of the majestic mountains. Seasonal dinners, call first.

Zin features delicious seasonal cuisine with produce grown especially for them. Wine industry locals often gather here for nourishment and shop talk.

Literally tucked into the vineyards in the Jimtown store. For more than 100 years, Jimtown has provided Healdsburg with fresh baked goods, hot coffee, and local products. Linger over the eclectic American antiques and old-fashioned toys.
Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria 21021 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 814-0111, www.diavolapizzeria.com
General Goods Gelato Soda Candy Cards Candles Baskets Wrapping Paper & Much More

A great stop for picnic items such as house-cured salumi and olives plus traditional Italian cooking including gourmet pizzas and delicicious pastas. Diavola uses the most locally available ingredients combined with centuries old recipes.

322 Center St Healdsburg, Ca Corner of Center & Plaza (707) 431-2784 www.healdsburggeneralstore.com

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Healdsburg

27

If youre heading to the hip and happening Healdsburg for high-end, handcrafted wines, then Topel Winery should be at the top of your list. Topel Winery and its Hidden Vineyard are perched on the east side of Duncan Peak 1,400 feet above the Sanel Valley floor and just south of Hopland in southern Mendocino County. Owners Mark and Donnis Topel are passionate about organic and biodynamic farming. They lovingly tend the vines year-round, coaxing each variety including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Syrah Noir on the steep, rocky slopes to produce moderate grape yields with intense flavors. Step into the warm and inviting tasting room at Topel and let the natural wood and golden lighting soak in while you cozy up to the beautiful mahogany bar. Sit back, relax and get ready for a wonderful ride through the world of wine. The staff is not only friendly, incredibly knowledgeable and genuine, but good looking, too! says Donnis, who is sweet and welcoming to all. Try their Traditional or Private Sit-Down Tastings in the smaller room of limited-edition and library wines (for groups of four or more) with either Mark or Donnis. If youre in the mood to shop with a glass of wine in hand, gaze at their unique art, then take home some of the delicious balsamic vinegar or olive oil as a souvenir. To make absolutely the best wine that can be made from these grapes in this spot at this time, and to do it honestly, is our goal, confirms winemaker Mark Topel. We literally capture a piece of time so that when you open a bottle, no matter when, it brings back the whole year. Every vintage is like a new child.
By Karin Argoud

VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah Noir, Pinot Noir, Gamay, Petite Sirah, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier. FUN FACT Does your dog prefer Pinot Noir or Petite Sirah? Go to Topel Winery to find out. Topel is Fido-friendly, a great place to go wine tasting with your pet. TRIVIA What does Mark Topel do besides making wine? He is a criminal trial lawyer. EVENTS Topel has two major events to mark on your calendar: Love & Meritage Blending Event that is always held the Sunday closest to Valentines Day, and Dogtoberfest, held on the Saturday before Halloween, when the winners of the Topel Wine Tails Calendar for the next year are revealed. All proceeds from the sales of the calendar go to Rotts of Friends Animal Sanctuary. TOPEL IS GREEN! The winery is completely solar and the bottles are all eco glass from California in an effort to significantly reduce their footprint.

Topel Tasting Room


Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

125 Matheson Street, Healdsburg


(across from Oakville Grocery)

www.topelwines.com | (707) 433-4116 www.facebook.com/topelwinery

28 Healdsburg

Bring this article with you and get 20% discount off your first wine purchase.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Simi Winery has something for everyone fantastic wines, friendly, informative staff, a well-stocked Visitor Center, gorgeous grounds and winemaking history galore. Simi Winery is the longest continually running winery in Sonoma County. It was founded in 1876 by Giuseppe and Pietro Simi, and even Prohibition didnt shut down the winerys production. Simi Winerys Visitor Center is spacious and airy, with hardwood floors, a rough-hewn rock fireplace, a long, l-shaped bar and a tasteful selection of wine-related gifts and foods, so visitors can sip, stroll and shop to their hearts content. Bring a picnic, purchase your goodies in the Visitor Center or enjoy fresh salads and sandwiches prepared by Simis chef (who formerly worked with famous chef Gary Danko) on Fridays and Saturdays. The state-of-the art outdoor kitchen is equipped with a pizza oven and pizza dinners can be reserved for groups of 1540 people. Two separate event spaces are available by reservation the indoor space accommodates up to 75 guests and the picnic area accommodates up to 100 guests. These spaces are available for corporate events, weddings and private parties. During your visit, dont miss the chance to purchase some winery-exclusive, single-varietal wines. These Winemaker Select wines come from grapes grown in Simi Winerys prestigious Landslide Vineyard, a 172-acre estate located on Chalk Hill Road in the Alexander Valley. This vineyard possesses such diverse microclimates and soil types that it is sub-divided into 44 distinct blocks. It consistently produces critically acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench

VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc and Late Harvest Riesling FUN FACTS The garden that encompasses the picnic area won the honor of best garden in Healdsburg Get your growler on! Simi Winery now sells two-liter, refillable growlers of Maiale Cieco (Blind Pig), a delicious Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend PLAN AHEAD Give yourself extra time for a tour (at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.) and to enjoy the redwoodshaded picnic area

Simi Winery Visitor Center


Open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

16275 Healdsburg Avenue Healdsburg, CA 1-800-746-4880 www.simiwinery.com Follow Simi Winery on Facebook www.facebook.com/simiwinery

Mention Day Trips and enjoy a $10 tasting for just $5.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Healdsburg

29

Wine tasting just south of downtown Healdsburg, on the east or west side of Highway 101, youll instantly feel miles away. Westside Road is slow and winding, filled with redwood trees, heritage oaks with moss beards and famous vineyards. Wineries on the east side of Highway 101 specialize in Pinots, cool-climate Syrahs and that famous Zinfandel. Here, some of the finest winemaking and culinary talents in all of Northern California are represented. Should you wish to slow down and experience wine country up-close-and-personal, just south of Healdsburg is the place to go. THINGS TO DO Dragonfly, 425 Westside Road, Healdsburg (707) 433-3739, www.dragonflyfloral.com Wohler Bridge, 9765 Wohler Rd, Forestville

South of Healdsburg
Russian River Valley Produce 400 Grapevine Lane, Healdsburg, (707) 433-7933

A four-acre, family-owned ranch, Russian River Valley Produce farms top-notch vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers sure to brighten any palate and table. Excellent farm tours by appointment. The best of California farming! Once an old quarry, Riverfront Regional Park is now home to two sparkling lakes perfect for swimming and non-motorized boating.. or hike a trail through serene redwood groves!

By appointment only, this is a unique botany and flower-lover's destination. They can custom pick and arrange flowers. Guided tastings of wines, olive oils and jams as well as fresh produce. It's also a great spot for a picnic, or just to wander the field. Check the website for hands-on cooking clases.
DaVero, 766 Westside Road, Healdsburg (707) 431-8000, www.DaVero.com

A true Sonoma County landmark, Wohler Bridge is one of the few old-old-OLD bridges left in California. This steel-truss bridge crosses the Russian River at quite a beautiful spot, too.
Mill Street Antiques 44 Mill Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-8409

Riverfront Regional Park 7821 Eastside Rd, Healdsburg, (707) 565-2041

Healdsburg General Store 322 Center St., Healdsburg (707) 431-2784, www.healdsburggeneralstore.com

Take the time to seek out the treasures here theres sure to be something for everyone! 35 dealers in 10,000 sq. ft.
SI RUS

Healdsburg General Store harkens back to the general stores of yesteryear, but adds a modern twist. Everything at here is well crafted, and at the same time, undeniably hip.
LODGING Madrona Manor, 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg 1-800-258-4003, www.MadronaManor.com

ER RIV AN

D.

Madrona Dragonfly Mill Street Manor Antiques DaVero Farms


AVE

Driving Time: 17 minutes From Armida Winery to Christopher Creek 4.5 miles to Rodney Strong 1.7 miles to Mutt Lynch Winery 2.4 miles Total 8.6 miles

128

A world-class destination for guests seeking gracious service and luxurious accommodations in the heart of wine country. Oh yes.. "Rated #1 in Napa & Sonoma" by Travel & Leisure.. Need we say more? Representing the finest level of Sonoma inns, restaurants and Spas, sublime guestrooms, farm-fresh food, and seasonal body treatments come together for one unforgettable experience.
Farmhouse Inn, 7871 River Road, Forestville (707) 887-3300, www. FarmhouseInn.com

OK

RODNEY STRONG

A AT AR
S BR O

HILL RD. CHALK

TASTING ROOM ON THE GREEN DSOR RIVER RD


WIN

WINDSOR RD

LAKEW O OD

HEM BR

EE

TRENTON-HEALDS BU RG

FULTO

N RD

30 South Healdsburg
LAGUNA

L RD.

MIRABE

D W.

K REE RY C

HEALDSBURG

CHRISTOPHER CREEK
K ERIC LIM

ARMIDA
WE S
RD. TSIDE

Country Garden Lodging, Healdsburg (707) 431-8630, www.hcountrygardens.com

OS MIG LOS A

101

Three fully-equipped, affordable vacation homes located on a 25-acre wine country estate boasting spectacular gardens. Located just 1 miles from charming downtown Healdsburg.
DINING Farmhouse Inn Restaurant, 7871 River Road, Forestville (707) 887-3300, www.farmhouseinn.com

OLD

Y. HW OD WO R ED

T SAN LEA

O SHIL

RD.

Wohler Bridge W
ER HL
RD

SID ST EA

RD

Sonoma County Airport

RT BL AIRPO

VD

Tucked into one of the smallest, lovely towns in wine country, the Farmhouse Inn boasts an exquisite restaurant. Each plate by Chef Litke tells the story of Sonoma's diverse agriculture and artisan producers.
Giorgis Restaurant 25 Grant Street, Healdsburg, (707) 433-1106

D OL
D OO DW RE
Y. HW

RR RIVE

D.

Great family-style Italian restaurantpasta and hand-thrown pizzas. Has a full bar, open late and food available to go.

Farmhouse Inn

PINE

. R RD

Gilardi's Delicatessen 810 Den Beste, Windsor, (707) 838-9869

Certainly a vine above the rest! Feast on homemade lasagna and freshly baked sourdough garlic breads.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Located not far from Healdsburg on Westside Road, Armida Winery sits atop a vineyard-striped knoll. Wind your way up the driveway and you are in for a real treat! To start with, the views from the oak-shaded deck/picnic area and bocce court are unforgettable the Russian River Valley unfolds before your eyes in a glorious patchwork of vineyards, trees and hills. The whole atmosphere at Armida Winery is one of delicious fun, with a bit of mischief thrown in. The wines are seriously good, but the folks at Armida Winery dont take themselves too seriously. Theres not an ounce of pretension here, folks! The tasting room is light, bright and airy feeling, with an octagonal shaped wooden bar that is staffed by friendly and knowledgeable servers. PoiZin themed gifts are placed everywhere in the artfully merchandised tasting room. Against the back wall, a glass-fronted refrigerator is well stocked with cheeses, hummus and other picnic fare. Armida Winery is a popular stop along the wine road, because the tasting room is unique, the views are stunning, these folks really know how to show visitors a good time and the wines ROCK! Speaking of rock, Armida is the official wine of Fender guitars they crafted a Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon especially for Fender. Armida is also the official wine for Loudmouth Golf Apparel and the IAFF (International Association of Fire Fighters). Owner, Bruce Cousins, says the 2012 vintage could well be the vintage of the decade, and the 2012 Maple Vineyard Zinfandel, 2012 Bacigalupi Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2012 Gold Mine Ranch Zinfandel and 2012 Durrell Ranch Chardonnay are not to be missed. Be sure to visit this unforgettable place and tell them The Wine By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Wench sent you!

PLAN AHEAD Bring a picnic, or purchase your cheese, crackers and other snacks here. Play a little bocce and relax a while. IF YOURE VISITING CAPITOLA Dont miss Armidas cozy, intimate tasting room in Capitola Village! Located just a stones throw from the ocean, it is surrounded by award-winning restaurants, artisan shops and art galleries. FUN FACT Armida Winery is family owned and they make sure all their guests feel like family, too! VARIETALS Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewrztraminer, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and a traditional estate blend called Il Campo.

Armida Winery
Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2201 Westside Road Healdsburg, CA 95448 www.armida.com (707) 433-2222

Bring this story in for 2-for-1 tasting!


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

South of Healdsburg

31

A small, family-owned winery, Christopher Creek, in the heart of the Russian River Valley, has a long history of producing award-winning, estate-bottled, wines. Located on Limerick Lane in Healdsburg, the winery and tasting room is situated on 11 acres in the Russian River AVA with another 27 acres planted on Bradford Mountain in the Dry Creek appellation. The first vines were planted more than 50 years ago with the winery opening shortly thereafter in 1974. Those first vines are still producing exceptional wines and may still be enjoyed in the warm and rustic tasting room as Reserve Petite Sirah and Reserve Syrah. With a growing interest in Rhne style wines, Christopher Creek offers the opportunity to taste wines produced from old vines of Russian River Valley, where the climate is cooler, including some of the best Syrah, Petite Sirah and Pinot Noir in the area. Coming on board recently is winemaker Mike Brunson, a third-generation Sonoma County resident with more than 20 years of vineyard and winery experience. Prior to joining Christopher Creek, Mike was winemaker and vineyard manager at Michel-Schlumberger for 16 years. He has produced award-winning wines from Pinot Blanc to Cabernet Sauvignon and brings passion, experience and a workingmans knowledge of how to go from grape to glass.
By Mike Hyland

RELAX Guests are always welcome to enjoy a glass of wine poolside, or bring a picnic lunch to enjoy the patio overlooking the rolling vineyards, creek and surrounding vistas. VIP TREATMENT Call ahead for a VIP tour and tasting with owners/winemakers. VARIETALS In addition to their noteworthy Petite Sirah, Syrah and Cabernet Franc, additional wines in the portfolio include Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Viognier, Port and Petite Sirah Port. MORE AWARDS The latest in a long line of award-winning wines include Best in Show and Sweepstakes Award for the 2008 Petite Sirah at the Riverside (California) International Wine Competition. At the same event, the 2008 Dry Creek Zinfandel also won a unanimous gold medal and the Chairmans Award. The Cab Franc recently received Double Gold, Best of Cass at the 2012 Harvest Fair.

Christopher Creek Winery


641 Limerick Lane, Healdsburg, CA 95448 Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (707) 433-2001 www.christophercreek.com Look for Christopher Creek Winery on Facebook

32 South of Healdsburg

Mention Day Trips for 2 for 1 estate tasting.


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

There are few places in wine country more memorable than The Green a luxurious expanse of softly rolling lawn that surrounds center stage at Rodney Strong Vineyards. It represents the perfect spot from which to savor the marvelous wines the winery offers, not to mention its a great place to enjoy fresh, local artisan picnic fare and revel in the beautiful Sonoma County sun. Rodney Strong was a trailblazer in the Russian River Appellation who recognized this area as an ideal grapegrowing region. He realized the soil, climate and topography here combined in a way to produce the conditions necessary to make world-class wines. All of the Rodney Strong wines come from grapes grown exclusively in Sonoma Countys finest appellations: Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, Chalk Hill and Sonoma Coast. He was also one of the first to plant Pinot Noir in the Russian River Valley and the first to produce and release a Chalk Hill Chardonnay. Currently available for tasting is their luscious Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Symmetry, a red meritage wine. Since 1989, the Klein family, who has been involved in California agriculture for four generations, has privately owned the winery. Their passion for sustainable farming practices, solar power and other green business practices led them to become Sonoma Countys first carbon neutral winery.
By Ronda Giangreco

GOOD TO KNOW The winery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and guided winery tours are offered daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. They feature both complimentary and paid tastings. SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Amazing wines, breathtaking views and concerts with contemporary artists theres no better way to enjoy a Sonoma County summer than at Rodney Strongs annual Summer Concert Series presented in association with Omega Events. Surrounded by acres of beautiful vineyards, guests enjoy top performers while picnicking at the winerys intimate concert venue, The Green. FUN FACT Depending on the season, you can witness vines being pruned, the sugar-testing of grapes or receive a crash course on evaluating wines right out of the barrel.

Rodney Strong Vineyards


Open Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 11455 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg For more information, call (707) 431-1533 or visit www.rodneystrong.com.

2 for 1 Estate Wine Tasting good through September 2014 with this ad.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

South of Healdsburg

33

Windsors Premiere Wine Destination! Twenty-something years ago, the Town of Windsor created a Town Green a vibrant, tasteful array of shops and restaurants with upstairs condominiums clustered around a manicured park in an otherwise rather ordinary suburban community. This community is lucky to welcome its latest addition, The Tasting Room On The Green, a new cooperative tasting room shared by Mutt Lynch and Deaux Amis wineries. The new tasting room is large and bright, with avocado green walls, dyed cement floors and rustic furniture placed around the room. Large windows let in plenty of Sonoma County sunshine. One wall is dedicated to photographs of the people, vineyards and wines of Mutt Lynch and Deux Amis. A large, granite-topped bar spans the back of the room. The overall vibe in the tasting room is of relaxed, understated elegance, without an ounce of pretension. Tasting Room On The Green showcases the award-winning wines from two of Sonoma Countys most notable female winemakers Phyllis Zouzounis (Deaux Amis) and Brenda Lynch (Mutt Lynch). Phyllis and Brenda are both winery owners and winemakers. They have been working together since 1996 and are also longtime friends. In fact, the marketing tagline of Tasting Room On The Green is Fabulous Winemakers, Fast Friends. Both of these fabulous female winemakers use traditional, handcrafted styles to produce an array of delicious wines. The wines are reasonably priced ($10 - $45 per bottle) and wine clubs are available for savvy wine lovers with discriminating taste. Be sure to visit this unforgettable place and tell them The Wine Wench sent you! You may just find me there, with my mini-daschund, Fifi at my feet and a glass of wine in my hand. Cheers! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench

PLAN AHEAD Make a day of it on The Green! Dine in one of the many excellent restaurants and check out the unique shops within easy walking distance from the Tasting Room On The Green. FUN FACT Bring your dog! Dogs are ALWAYS welcome theyre Mutt Lynch (and Deaux Amis)! VARIETALS Between the two wineries, visitors may taste the featured reserve varietals: Chardonnay, Charbono, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel. Other varietals include: Rosie Ros, Primitivo, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Nectar of the Dogs Late Harvest Zinfandel and Muttitage Red Wine.

Mutt Lynch & Deux Amis Tasting Room On The Green


Open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday-Monday 9050 Windsor Road, Windsor, CA (707) 687-5089 www.deauxamiswines.com www.muttlynchwinery.com

34 South of Healdsburg

Mention this story and youll enjoy two free tasting flights at Tasting Room On The Green.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

For more than a century, the Russian River has been a true gateway to the grandeur of California's wild nature and dramatic coast. Today, it is still a destination for all naturalists as well as an increasingly high-profile wine region and rightly so. Russian River wines are quickly becoming some of the finest, most sought-after wines in the world and artisan winemakers are finally getting their due. Come for the fresh air, fine wines, incomparable cuisines and relax! THINGS TO DO Riverfront Regional Park 7821 Eastside Road, Healdsburg (707) 565-2041 Windsor Golf Club 1340 19th Hole Drive, Windsor (707) 838-7888, www.windsorgolf.com

Russian River

Applewood Restaurant and Spa 13555 Highway 116, Guerneville (707) 869-9093 | www.applewoodinn.com/

One of the top Sonoma Fine Dining Restaurant Applewood honored with One Star by Michelin Guide for 2011 and 2012. Its acclaimed cuisine is inspired by the lush bounty of the Russian River Valley and accented by Mediterranean influences.
LODGING Farmhouse Inn 7871 River Road, Forestville (707) 887-3300, www. FarmhouseInn.com

Once a gravel quarry site, this park now boasts 2 sparkling lakes perfect for fishing and non-motorized boating. Explore redwood grove picnic areas and more than 2 miles of trails around Lake Benoist!

Par 72 championship course regarded by the regulars as a must-play course. Four tee options provide an appropriate challenge for any skill level. The ancient coast redwood is the tallest living thing on our planet! Come see this stately preserve of trees close to 1,000 years old!

Charles Schulz Museum 2301 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa (707) 579-4452, www.schulzmuseum.com

Armstrong Redwoods 17000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville (707) 869-2015, www.parks.ca.gov

Representing the finest level of Sonoma inns, restaurants and spas, sublime guestrooms, farm-fresh food, and seasonal body treatments come together for one unforgettable experience.
Vintners Inn 4350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa (707) 575-7350, www.vintnersinn.com

A tribute to the wonderful man who brought so much joy to the world with the Peanuts cartoon strip. Finally, a fitting place in Charles Sparky Schulz hometown to preserve, display, and interpret the Peanuts art.

FOOD John Ash & Co. Restaurant 4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa (707) 527-7687, www.vintnersinn.com

Pacific Coast Air Museum 2230 Becker Blvd., Santa Rosa, (707) 575-7900 www.pacificcoastairmuseum.org

Climb Aboard vintage aircraft, Farmhouse Inn Restaurant and learn about the history of where and 7871 River Road, Forestville RODNEY how it was used from the crew who has (707) 887-3300, www.farmhouseinn.com STRONG lovingly restored it. Currently, the John Ash &The Co. Farmhouse Inn boasts an exquisite F-14 Tomcat, F-16N Viper and F-5 Tiger I Inn Vintners restaurant that utilizes Sonoma's diverse are featured. agriculture and artisan producers.
DE RD. STSI WE

Cooking seasonally with fresh, local foods and produce and pairing these exceptional recipes with wines from the region the restaurant remains an icon of gourmet dining and wine country living.
RE OLD

A luxury, 44-room, 4 Diamond intimate hotel that is designed to showcase the very finest in gracious hospitality that Wine Country provides. Relax in the spa, walk the grounds, even take a cooking class with famed chef John Ash! Truly an exceptional hotel!
OOD
HEMBRE

Fountain Grove Inn 101 Fountaingrove Parkway, Santa Rosa (707) 578-6101, www.fountaingroveinn.com

WINDSOR RIVER RD

For business or leisure travel, the Fountain Grove Inn Hotel & Conference Center is a luxurious, but not ostentatious, hotel that is convenient to all of Sonoma County wine country.
G AU FR

LAKEW

LN.

DW

. WY DH OO

PLE

E. NT AV ASA

HT

. O RD SHIL

Y. HW OD WO ED DR OL

Armstrong Redwoods

Sonoma County Airport RPORT BLVD


AI

Safari West
S ING SPR EST KW

Pacific Coast Air Museum

D. ODS R ARMSTRONG WO

KORBEL
RIV ER RD .

SLUSSER

Riverfront RIVER Regional Park RD.


MIRABE L RD.
LAGUNA RD.

SONOMA-CUTRER
RIVE

OLD WORLD 101 Hilton Sonoma WINERY Wine Country


R MA

R RD.

Driving Time: 30 minutes From Korbel to Martin Ray 8.3 miles to Sonoma-Cutrer 4.1 miles to DeLoach 2.9 miles to Old World Winery 4.7 miles Total 20 miles

R RD PINE
W. OLIVET
OLIVET

FULTON RD

116 ATASCADERO CREEK WINE GUERRILLA RUSSIAN RIVER VINEYARDS


GRATON RD.
BARLOW

MARTIN RAY

John Ash & Co. FOUNTAIN GR . Vintners Inn LE LN STEE Charles Schultz Fountain Grove Inn Museum

OVE

Y. PK W

DeLOACH DUTTON ESTATE GRATON RIDGE HANNA


D
.

GUE

RNEV

ILLE

R D.

Taste Route 116 Driving Time: 40 minutes 101 From Wine Guerilla
to Atascadero Creek 3 miles to Russian River Vnyds 1.9 miles to Martin Ray 3.7 miles to Dutton Estate 2.7 miles to Graton Ridge 2 miles to Taft Street Winery 2.4 miles to Hanna 2.7 miles to Balletto Estate 0.1 mile to Hook & Ladder 2.8 miles to Occidental Road 1.3 miles Total 22.6 miles

IR FR E

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

EM BOH

TO HWY. 1

12 OCCIDENTAL ROAD CELLARS

TAFT STREET WINERY

BALETTO HOOK & LADDER


TO HWY. 101

OCCIDENTAL RD.

W IAN H Y

Not to scale

Russian River

35

Just the drive to this winery, not far from the Sonoma Coast, brings back the history of the early days of winemaking in Northern California. It fluctuates from wild to cultivated as the topography changes along with the climate. Korbel, an iconic name in wine country, has been making California mthode champenoise champagnes for more than 130 years. One of the oldest wineries in California, it is set along the Russian River in Sonoma County, where they pride themselves by producing award-winning California champagne using only the finest premium California-grown varietals. In the mid-1800s, this country offered possibilities to three brothers seeking to escape political unrest in their European homeland. Francis, Anton and Joseph Korbel found success in exchange for enduring hard work and innovation. F . Korbel & Bros. began as a manufacturing business in San Francisco, producing materials for the building industry. As that business expanded, the brothers eventually acquired a sawmill and began a full-scale lumber operation near the town of Guerneville in Sonoma County. This all grew into what is now a premier California champagne enterprise, where French methods were used to make the premium California champagne they became famous for. A visit to this historic winery is a trip back in time, and also a visit to the future. The grounds are beautiful, the tasting room lively yet harkens one back to the hallowed past. The people are well-versed in it all, and a visit is not just about today, it also recognizes a very special history that should not be forgotten. By Charles Neave

VARIETALS California Champagne (15 varieties), Chardonnay, Edelzwicker (white blend), Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Sherry, Port, Brandy (3 varieties) TOURS Tasting and tours offered daily, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call ahead for group tours, (707) 824-7708 GARDEN TOUR HOURS The Garden Tour is offered daily at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, from the middle of April through the first part of October. DELI HOURS Enjoy this popular option daily, at the same time as the tasting room is open. It is like one-stop-shopping with great wine in a historic setting. FUN FACT More than 250 varieties of roses are planted in front of the circa-1882 Korbel family house. Many antique rose varietals have been re-established in the garden and are budding up for a spectacular display. PLAN AHEAD The winery has many special events so check their website often for more information.

Korbel Champagne Cellars


Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily

13250 River Road, Guerneville (707) 824-7000 | www.korbel.com


Celebrate responsibly.

36

Mention this story for 20% off all California Champagne and Wine (excludes sales, Brandy and merchandise).
Russian River
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Martin Ray Winery is an ambitious amalgam of labels and wines, all housed in one of Sonoma Countys most historic wineries. Founder/Proprietor Courtney Benham is a thirdgeneration San Joaquin Valley winemaker who knew he wanted to some day own a winery himself. In 1990, he discovered a treasure trove of old library wines with the label of Martin Ray, a Santa Cruz Mountains winemaker. Courtney bought the rights to the Martin Ray name and in 2003 purchased the historic Martini-Prati Winery in western Sonoma County; now home to the Martin Ray line of wines. One common thread between Courtney and Martin Ray is the firm belief that vineyard location is crucial to character and quality of the wine. There is a special emphasis on mountain-grown wines, a conviction that mountain-side elevation provides cooler nights during the growing season which result in superb fruit ripeness. Diamond Mountain in Napa Valley, Sonoma Mountain in Sonoma County and the Santa Cruz Mountains to the south are three of the most prestigious vineyard locations for Martin Ray grapes. Wines available include fruit-forward, picnic-friendly Angeline wines, Martin Ray wines that have elegant structure and vineyard character, the vineyard designated reserve wines and Courtney Benham wines that are limited-production offerings from some of Californias most interesting wine regions. At the winery, picnic tables and chairs outside the tasting room overlook verdant hills and vineyards. Lush, colorful landscape and flowers surround the tasting room. The friendly and knowledgeable tasting room staff can suggest interesting wines to taste side-by-side, so visitors can compare a Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma Mountain with one from Alexander Valley. Its not only a great educational experience - its also lots of fun!

VARIETALS Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Ros, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel ON THE VINE The longer hang time (the time a grape cluster remains on the vine) that the mountainside vineyards allow means riper, richer fruit. You can find the result right there in your glass of Martin Ray, Angeline and Courtney Benham wine. FUN FACT Martin Ray Winery is one of the oldest historical winery sites in the Golden State (California), so take your time and wander through the historic property. PLAN AHEAD Allow extra time for a tour (by appointment only) of the historic production facilities, as well as extensive tasting. The scenic drive to Martin Ray Winery on winding roads is a fascinating combination of forests and vineyards. Youll know youve reached the winery when you see the large water tower that dominates the skyline.

Martin Ray Winery


Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

2191 Laguna Road, Santa Rosa (707) 823-2404 | www.martinraywinery.com Look for them on Facebook and become a Fan!

15% discount on your first purchase when you mention this story in the Tasting Room!
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Russian River

37

West County Wineries Invite Visitors to

TASTE ROUTE 116


Sebastopol Graton Forestville
Known as West County, the Highway 116 route that ambles through Sebastopol, Graton and Forestville is home to a unique cluster of eleven family-owned wineries that make-up the Taste Route 116 trail. These vintners bottle some of Sonoma Countys most prized, often small-production varietals, from crisp Chardonnay to earthy Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and more. The drive along Highway 116 drifts through Gravenstein apple orchards, redwoods and gently rolling hills of perfectly trellised vineyards with small towns, great food and interesting discoveries along the way.

Get to know the Taste Route 116 wineries:


Atascadero Creek Winery
6542 Front Street, Forestville, (707) 824-8204 Open Thursdays through Mondays, 12 to 5 p.m.
Sole proprietor Bob Appleby produces small lots of single vineyard, unfiltered red wines, including Pinot Noir, Syrah, Carignane, Primativo and Zinfandel that locals clamor for. Atascadero Creek Winerys unique tasting room space also serves as an art gallery, with ongoing rotating exhibits by local artists. Food and wine pairings of small bites created by a local chef are also available.

Dutton Estate Winery


8757 Green Valley Road, Sebastopol, (707) 829-9463 Open daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
An award-winning, family owned and operated winery, Dutton Estate produces Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Syrah. Located on Green Valley Road, conveniently off Highway 116, visitors can relax and enjoy flights of wine, served with local Joe Matos Cheese and Zoes uncured salami. The Dutton family prides itself on sustainable farming practices, and has a long-standing farming history in the Sonoma County region, with an extensive wine following.

Graton Ridge Cellars


3561 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol Open daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., (707) 823-3040
Graton Ridge Cellars is owned and operated by the Paul family, Gravenstein apple farmers in the West County for over 65 years. The family winery produces just 1,700 cases per year keeping lots small. Beating out more than 3,000 wines, Graton Ridge Cellars won the Red Sweepstakes in the 2010 San Francisco Chronicle wine competition. If you like a sweet wine, try the 2011 Graton Ridge A+ its a Gravenstein apple dessert wine. Stop by the tasting room, purchase a favorite wine and sit beneath the giant Sequoia tree for a picnic, or play a round of bocce.

Balletto Vineyards & Winery


5700 Occidental Road, Santa Rosa, (707) 568-2455 Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Once prominent vegetable farmers, the Balletto family now grows over 600 acres of grapes in the Russian River Valley. Nearly 200 acres surround the winery and tasting room off Occidental Road, including 40 percent of the Pinot Noir Balletto grows, as well as Chardonnay. Drop by seven days a week to taste their award-winning wines and savor the rustic setting. The location is a photographers dream during mustard flower season each spring.

HANNA Winery and vineyards


5353 Occidental Road, Santa Rosa, (707) 575-3371 Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The original home ranch of HANNA Winery & Vineyards is just off of Occidental Road in Sonoma County. The picturesque winery has lovely grounds and a picnic area overlooking the vineyards (HANNA Winery also has a stunning Mediterranean-style hospitality center in heart of Alexander Valley, 9280 Highway 128, Healdsburg). With over 25 years of winemaking experience, this estate winery produces varietals from three of Sonoma Countys finest regions: Russian River Valley, Alexander Valley and the Mayacamas Mountains.

ATASCADERO WINE CREEK GUERRILLA Forestville RUSSIAN RIVER VINEYARDS


ROSS STATION RD

BOHEMIAN HWY

116
GREEN VALLEY RD

MARTIN RAY WINERY


RI V ER RD

DUTTON ESTATE GRATON RIDGE GU ER CELLARS NE RD VIL TON RD LE GRA EI Graton RD FR Occidental OCCIDENTAL RD HANNA WINERY 101 & VINEYARDS TAFT STREET OC WINERY BALLETTO CIDENTA LR 116 VINEYARDS D BOD EGA AVE & WINERY 12 HOOK & LADDER Sebastopol TO OCCIDENTAL ROAD SAN FRANCISCO CELLARS
FU LTO N RD

TO EUREKA

BARLOW LN

Hook & Ladder Winery


104 N. Main Street, Sebastopol, (707) 634-6249 Open six days a week 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Sundays 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) closed Tuesdays
Stop by for a glass of wine on the way out to the Sonoma Coast. The Hook & Ladder tasting room is located at Main Stage West in eclectic downtown Sebastopol, near local artisan shops, boutiques and dining. Its a tasting room by day and theater by night a fun place to meet up with friends. Wine is served by the flight or glass. Hook and Ladder also has a rural tasting room located inside its nearby estate production facility at 2134 Olivet Road in Santa Rosa.

Russian River Vineyards


5700 Gravenstein Highway North, Forestville Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., (707) 887-3344
Celebrated Russian River Valley is home to Russian River Vineyards. Its a unique destination winery, where visitors can easily spend an afternoon wine tasting, taking in the panoramic views and savoring Corks restaurant the only winery-based restaurant in the Russian River Valley. Meticulously crafted wines can be enjoyed in the open-air tasting room or on the romantic patio, an ideal place to catch a dazzling West County sunset.

Taft Street Winery


2030 Barlow Lane, Sebastopol, (707) 823-2049 Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekends until 4:30 p.m.
The term Garagistes originated in Bordeaux, France in the 1980s and referred to a group of innovative winemakers who produced exceptional wines in their garages rather than a grand chateaux. Like the renegade French Garagistes, Taft Street began in a garage in 1979, stressing quality without pretense. The winery continues in the Garagistes tradition to this day, producing limited production, handcrafted wines from select Sonoma County vineyards. Taft Street makes great wine, available at a fair price, and has a fun time doing it sharing that joy daily with visitors.

Martin Ray Winery


2191 Laguna Road, Santa Rosa, (707) 823-2404 Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Located in the hub of the Russian River Valley, Martin Ray Winery is located on one of the oldest historical winery sites in California (established in 1881), known by its soaring water tower built in the 1940s. The grounds are serene and lushly landscaped. Pack a picnic to enjoy with a bottle of Martin Ray wine. Tasting room staff is friendly, knowledgeable and unpretentious happy to guide visitors on a wine tasting journey. First-timers come in as strangers and leave as friends.

OCCIDENTAL ROAD CEllARS


870 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, (707) 827-3327 Friday-Monday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Owned and operated by fourth generation farmers, Richard and Joelle Prather invite visitors to stop by their tasting room in Sebastopol for a sample of Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, and more. If youre interested in touring their winery or vineyards along the Sonoma Coast and Russian River Valley book an appointment they accommodate both large and small groups. Visitors wishing to spend a night amongst the vineyards can also book a stay at their private vineyard estate a tranquil place to absorb the West Sonoma County lifestyle.

Wine GueRrilla
6671 Front Street (Highway 116), Forestville, (707) 887-1996 Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
With its maxim being The Art and Soul of Zinfandel, theres no mistaking where its at for Wine Guerrilla. Made entirely from Sonoma County-grown grapes, and distinctly bottled with the splendid musings of artist Sean Colgan adorning each label, these popular Zins make it worth a trip for a taste. Enjoy lunch on the charming outdoor patio (gourmet boxed lunches can be ordered and delivered to the tasting room for $15) along with your wine purchase.

By Denise Oliffe

What makes a tasting room visit special and memorable? Excellent wine? Charming location? Great staff? Yes, all of the above, and Sonoma-Cutrer, tucked away in the rural paradise of the Russian River Valley, has all of these. And here is proof: They make Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in a true French Burgundian style. Yes, the vines are in Sonoma County, but the clones are French, and the winemaking is pure Burgundian in method and tradition. The result is delicious wine at a fraction of the cost of its French counterparts. The winery is located in the cool Russian River Valley, a prime growing area for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. To get there you drive past lush vineyards and then up a tree-lined driveway to open lawns and panoramic vistas. Climb a flight of broad stone steps to a spacious, trellis-covered patio with tables and chairs and expansive views toward the west. Youll want to sit and drink it all in, which you can do with a glass of SonomaCutrer in hand. Great wine and a great location can still be diminished if the tasting room staff isnt top notch. But the folks who work here really love their jobs, and their energy and enthusiasm shines through. Most impressive is their understanding that every visitor comes with a different degree of wine knowledge and tasting experience. Here there is no memorized cookie-cutter pattern. They listen to you, and tailor information to match your interests as they pour those outstanding wines. By Charles Neave

WHAT TO TASTE Try all three restaurant-only Chardonnays and their award-winning Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. They also make limited-production wines that are only available at the winery. GOOD PRESS This Chardonnay is so popular that it has been chosen as the most popular wine by the glass in restaurants for 22 of the past 24 years in the Wine and Spirits magazines annual reader poll. SONOMA-CUTRER FOR CHARDONNAY & CROQUET The winery has two gorgeous croquet courts and hosts tournaments throughout the summer. The day begins with a friendly croquet tournament while enjoying some special Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay. Followed by a gourmet boxed lunch. You dont have to know how to play croquet or wear white to have a fabulous time. Cost is only $35 per person. Check the website for dates. TOURS They offer an extensive tour of the vineyards and winemaking facility with a taste of four wines at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Thursday through Monday by reservation; $25 per person.

Sonoma-Cutrer
Open Thursday-Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments recommended.

4401 Slusser Road, Windsor Off of River Road (707) 237-3489 | www.sonomacutrer.com

40 Russian River

Mention this story for one complimentary tasting.


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Old World Winery is conveniently located just off of Highway 101 at River Road (the gateway to the Russian River Valley), but it could just as well be a half a world away. A visit there is like stepping back in time to a simpler, more wholesome era. This special place was founded on the idea that great tasting wines are even better when created with environmental and social responsibility; the buildings were constructed with reclaimed materials (except for the house, a 1916 Craftsman, which was remodeled using reclaimed materials), the grapes are farmed using Biodynamic methods and the wines are produced using native yeasts, a minimum amount of sulphur and stomped by foot. Owner/Winemaker, Darek Trowbridge founded the winery in 1998 and first opened the doors to the public in 2010. He is usually on site to pour wine and give tours to his guests. Darek comes from a long line of Sonoma County farmers and grape growers his grandfather, Guiseppe Martinelli first taught him about grape growing and winemaking. Darek later went to work with his uncle, Lee Martinelli, who taught him all about agriculture, machinery fabrication and multiple ranch farming. Darek then took his family roots a step farther by attaining a Masters Degree in Enology from Fresno State and a Bachelors Degree in Viticulture from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Be sure to visit this unforgettable place and tell them The Wine Wench sent you!
By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench

PLAN AHEAD Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of two shaded picnic areas and then take a stroll around the farm. FUN FACT Old World Winery is a working Biodynamic farm, complete with chickens and pigs. VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Arbouriou and unique blends

Old World Winery


Open Thursday through Monday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

850 River Road, Fulton www.oldworldwinery.com (707) 490-6696 Follow Old World Winery on Facebook and Twitter.

Mention this story for a 20% discount on your wine purchase.


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Russian River

41

This is a great place to consider if you are looking for a quintessential Russian River Valley wine country experience. The winery features a host of unique activities that take visitors beyond the typical tasting room experience, with a particular emphasis on education and exploration that brings people deeper into the wine world. Our informative vineyard tour offers visitors a deeper understanding of Biodynamic farming and the role it plays in making great wines, all while enjoying fresh produce and treats from the winery chef paired with their sumptuous wines. Or, explore the many expressions of the Pinot Noir grape in a private tasting called the Pinot Noir Experience. With a wine educator as your guide, taste a flight of five exclusive Vineyard Designate Pinot Noirs which often includes rare library wines. In the elegant guesthouse behind the tasting room, the walls are bedecked with gorgeous original art, created by students of the San Francisco Academy of Art. Book in advance to explore the finest terroirs of Burgundy with an exclusive guided tasting in the DeLoach Vineyards guesthouse. Enjoy a quiet, elegant retreat tucked amongst the vineyards while you discover the origins of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Boisset family of wineries in Burgundy, including Domaine de la Vougeraie, Bouchard Aine & Fils, Jean-Claude Boisset and Louis Bouillot. Gorgeous picnic grounds in front of the winery invite guests to relax and enjoy the wine country. The landscaped garden overlooking the vineyards is the perfect spot for a picnic, and DeLoach can provide a picnic basket of special delicacies, elegant linens, stemware, cutting board and knife along with your favorite DeLoach wine. While youre here, schedule a tour of the grounds for $20 (includes a wine tasting), or simply enjoy the wine tasting, sans tour for $15. Tours are daily at 11 a.m.

VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Zinfandel plus late harvest Gewrztraminer and a Tawny port-style wine LITTLE KNOWN FACTS DeLoach Vineyards became a certified Biodynamic estate in 2009, which is a method of beyond-organic farming. They treat the vineyard as a self-contained ecosystem to foster a natural balance among the earth, the vines, the people and animals that contribute to its vitality. At DeLoach Vineyards, there are sheep that keep the weeds under control in the vineyards and a half-acre organic flower and vegetable garden that provides produce and flowers for special events. Getting married or want to host an event surrounded by vineyards? DeLoach offers a great event space. DeLoach also has a very unique Barrel to Barrel program where you can have your very own French oak barrel in your home, complete with an eco-bag inside that holds three liters of wine, or equivalent to four bottles of wine. The keeps the wine fresh while showcasing a very elegant, unique way to serve it. The winery offers new wines each quarter to help keep your barrel full & delicious! Check out the fun website www.barreltobarrel.com.

DeLoach Vineyards
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

1791 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa www.deloachvineyards.com For tours and reservations, call (707) 526-9111

42

Mention Day Trips and receive two 2-for-1 tastings and 10% off any purchase!
Russian River
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Ill tell you the owner, Ray Hanson, is a real character and hes passionate about what he does. He loves talking with all kinds of people young people, older people, people from all around the world, etc. One could say that Ray is a real people person. He told me, I meet my passengers as clients, and they leave as friends. I want to adopt them and take them home with me. Next thing you know, Ray will own a bed & breakfast to accommodate all of his adoptees! Ray was as a firefighter that just recently retired, so if some sort of unfortunate incident happened to occur during your adventure, he would know exactly how to handle it. If by chance Ray isnt your driver, his other drivers have all been through rigorous training to provide exemplary (and safe) service. Along with the wine tours, Destiny safely chauffeurs clients to the airport, concerts, shopping sprees, weddings, bachelorette parties, sporting events, proms, anniversaries and just about any kind of special event imaginable. The limo (which comfortably seats eight passengers) is a spotless black 2006 Lincoln Tiffany Town Car, and it comes fully stocked with Champagne and other adult beverages, water, sodas and more. It features a state-of-the-art sound system, which will sooth your ears or rock your world, depending on your mood. Ray just added two beautiful black stretches and a silver Mercedes Benz S500 to his fleet as well as a 2014 Black Cadillac Escalade coming this summer. Clients have plenty of luxurious transportation options. Your car is waiting let Destiny Wine Tours take you to your By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench travel destination!

LITTLE KNOWN FACT Destiny Wine Tours was founded in 2009 and Rays wife is credited with choosing the name for the company (great name, by the way!). FUN FACT Owner/Driver Ray Hanson says after driving a big fire truck for all those years, driving my limo is like driving a sports car! Not to worry, though, Ray is a true professional and pilots his limo with great care. KUDOS FOR DESTINY WINE TOURS Five Star Rating on www.yelp.com! It doesnt get any better than that!

Destiny Wine Tours


Tours are available seven days a week 3295 Vichy Avenue, Napa (707) 254-0442 www.destinywinetours.com www.facebook.com/pages/ Destiny-Wine-Tours twitter: @destinywinetours

Mention this story and get 20% off your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

43

Downtown is the heart of Santa Rosa where entertainment, shopping, wine tasting and restaurants keep visitors itineraries full. Tasting opportunities in downtown Santa Rosa include a new urban winery village called Vintners Square that is home to several small, boutique but full-production wineries with tasting rooms including DArgenzio Winery. Nearby, the historic Railroad Square has an authentic old town ambiance and is a favorite place to pass time, socialize and savor the wine country experience with antique shops, fine dining, local arts/entertainment and, of course, wine tasting. For more information on vacationing in Santa Rosa, go to www.visitsantarosa.com.

Santa Rosa

DINING
CaBianca Tex Wasabis Rock n Roll Sushi BBQ La Gare

835 Second Street, Santa Rosa (707) 542-5800, cabianca.com

Meaning white house in Italian, CaBianca is located in a stunning white Victorian in downtown Santa Rosa. Their menu is a blend of multiple regions of Italy.
TO HEALDSBURG HEALDSBURG GEYSER Y VILLE GEYSERVILLE

515 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa (707) 544-8399, www.texwasabis.com Santa Rosas celebrity chef Guy Fieri is the

208 Wilson Street, (707) 528-4355 www.lagarerestaurant.com

visionary behind Tex Wasabis. In wild Fieri style, the menu is loaded with flavors conceptualized by the talented Fieri.
TO C ALISTOGA ALIST OGA CALISTOGA
AD

Beef Wellington, Rack of Lamb, Chateaubriand Bouquetiere for Two are some of the dishes that La Gare has been serving for 30 years and counting. Every meal includes the soup du jour and salad.
Russian River Brewing Co

725 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa (707) 545-2337, russianriverbrewing.com


T HO M MA AS L LA A K E HA H AR R I S D R

PRIN EST S MARK W

O GS R

RIVER

RD.

ROUND BARN BL VD

FUL LT TON RD.

TO GUERNEVILLE GUERNEVILLE & RUSSIAN RIVER RUSSIAN

Best known for its aggressively hopped California-style ales, Belgian-style ales and barrel-aged beers, this popular spot also serves up a large variety of specialty pizzas, foccacia bread, sandwiches, salads, calzones and beer bites.
Jack and Tonys Restaurant and Whisky Bar

O LD RE D W O O

WY DH

HOPPER AVE.

TAI FOUN

P NGROVE

KWY.

115 4th Street, Santa Rosa (707) 526-4347, jackandtonys.com

AR LO W

RD

PINER RD

W. STE E LE LN .

COFF EY

Modern American regional cooking and an extensive Sonoma County wine list. The adjacent Whisky Bar shelves over 300 expressions of Scotch, Bourbon, Irish, American and Japanese whiskeys ranging from $6 to well over $100 and now offering tasting flights.
ATTRACTIONS
Luther Burbank Home & Gardens

GUERNE GUERNEVILLE VILLE RD RD. .

STEELE LN.

CLEV ELA ND A VE.


COLL EGE AVE.

MEN DOC INO

101

Driving Time: 8 minutes From Ancient Oak Cellars to DArgenzio 1.2 miles to Chateau Adore 2.9 miles Total 4.1 miles

204 Santa Rosa Avenue, Santa Rosa (707) 524-5445, www.lutherburbank.org

AV E

WILSON

CO LLE GE AVE .

Self-guided tours of the famed horticulturists home, greenhouse, garden and carriage house a registered national, state and city historic landmark. The stunning landscaped grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk.
LODGING
Hotel La Rose

5th ST


1st ST

FARM F ARME ERS RS L LANE ANE

4th ST

RAILROAD

SANTA R SANTA ROSA OSA AVE AVE

3rd ST

7th ST 4th ST 2nd ST E SONOMA AV 12 B
B ST

12
TO SONOMA

308 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa, www.hotellarose.com

A landmark property built over 100 years ago, offering old-world charm with modern amenities. Guests can opt to stay in either the main building, a 1907 stone charmer constructed by Italian stone masons, or one of 19 rooms in the Carriage House.
Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel and Spa

EN

LA NE

44 Santa Rosa

TO SEBAST SEB OPOL SEBASTOPOL

TO R OHNERT P PARK ROHNERT & PETAL PET ALUMA PETALUMA

S Santa ant nta a Rosa Rosa F air irgrounds grounds Fairgrounds

NE TT V

AL LE Y

170 Railroad Street, www.vineyardcreek.hyatt.com


RD .

Not to scale
E
HI LL RD .
D.

A Tuscan-inspired hotel situated along the Santa Rosa Creek, sits adjacent to Railroad Square. This romantic, luxury hotel exudes relaxation.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Roberts Lake

CRA

YO N E C AN

NR

GR

A NG

PE

TA LU M

Co-owners and vintners Ken and Melissa MoholtSiebert invite you to the downtown Santa Rosa tasting room of their winery Ancient Oak Cellars, which is named for the ancient oak tree presiding over their family vineyard. Conveniently located in downtown Santa Rosa on Fourth Street, amidst restaurants, shopping, art and entertainment, Ancient Oak Cellars tasting room is in the landmark Corricks store. It showcases hand-crafted wines from family-grown Sonoma County vineyards. Ken and Melissas vision of sustainable practices is apparent in every aspect of winemaking. Their own Pinot Noir vineyard was planted by Ken and his grandfather Henry on Siebert Ranch, just north of Santa Rosa, where sheep graze the vineyards in the winter. All of their vineyards, located within 15 miles of Santa Rosa, are farmed by Ken and Melissa and the families that live on them, with the help of dedicated vineyard workers who have worked the land for many years. Thats why Ken and Melissa use the slogan Real Dirt Real People Real Wine. Their winemaker, Kent Barthman, brings decades of experience with both Bordeaux and Burgundian varietals in premium labels. Kent was attracted to partnering with Ken and Melissa because they have superior hillside vineyards with great fruit, which he says gives him the opportunity to make some of the definitive wines of his career.
By Alexandra Charsley

VARIETALS Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux blends, Ros of Pinot, Zinfandel FUN FACTS Gather at the tasting counter or sit around Kens great-grandparents comfortable dining room table for a sit-down tasting. Enjoy live music while sipping a glass of your favorite wine at Wine Happy Hour, Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m.! New releases include some outstanding cuves of Cabernet and Merlot from their Sonoma Mountain Berger Vineyard and a Sonoma County Ros of Pinot. Their tasting counter was made by a local craftsman out of a single 27-foot slab of elm, with inset panels of hand-carved oak. To save on parking hassles, park in a downtown parking garage and theyll validate your parking. VISIT The tasting room is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday noon to 5 p.m. and Fridays until 7 p.m. It is located inside the landmark Corricks, adjacent to their ARTrails gallery, which is focused on local artists.

Ancient Oak Cellars


Open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday noon to 5 p.m., Fridays until 7 p.m.

637 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa (707) 536-1546 | www.ancientoakcellars.com tasting@ancientoakcellars.com

Enjoy 2 for 1 wine tasting when you mention Day Trips on your visit.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Santa Rosa

45

Discover DArgenzio Winery, a hidden gem located in the beautiful wine region of Sonoma County. Santa Rosas urban boutique winery and tasting room offers wines from a wide array of Sonoma County appellations as well as Italian varietals for wine lovers to sample. Each of the DArgenzio wines are vineyard-designate, small-lot production wines of 200 cases or less. Owned and operated by three generations of Italian Americans working together to showcase the finest natural wines, Ray and Ricci DArgenzio, identical twin brothers, continue the tradition of their artisan heritage. At DArgenzio Winery, take the time to play bocce ball or enjoy a picnic on their patio while trying their Primo Selection, a tasting flight of five wines. $10 per guest (fee waived when joining our wine club). For those craving a snack, DArgenzio offers Piccolo Morsi, small bites of antipasti and mouth-watering gelato. You can also take their barrel tasting and tour which includes four wines straight from the barrel while having a special tour of the winery. You will learn about their family history, winemaking techniques and see how their wine is made; $15 per guest. Last but not least, dont miss their Chocolate and Wine Pairing Experience. Delight your senses by trying melt-inyour-mouth chocolates and five of their wines; $15 per guest. DArgenzio Winery is the perfect spot to stop and take in a taste of Italy, where great wine, food, music and happy people come together to celebrate the pleasures of life!
By Monica Dashwood

VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Tocai Friulano, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Dry Moscato, Aglianico, Sagrantino, Sauvignon Blanc and Late Harvest Zinfandel SPECIAL EXPERIENCES Barrel Tasting are offered daily and wines are available to purchase as Futures. For great wine, seasonal cuisine and live music, come to Wine Down Thursday, every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. in spring, summer and fall. Wines are available to purchase by the glass or bottle. Reservations are recommended, but not required. Come by and sign up your four-person bocce team for the upcoming season. Sunday, May 11 National Wine Tourism Day 12-5 p.m. DArgenzio will be pouring their small lot Italian varietals not usually available with food and live music, $20 per guest. Sunday, August 31 Oysters on the Terrazzo 1-5 p.m. $50/$35 wine club members

DArgenzio Winery
Sunday-Wednesday 11am-5pm Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (Wine Down Thursday 5-9 p.m.) Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Santa Rosa Vintners Square 1301 Cleveland Ave. Suite A, Santa Rosa
Centrally located in Santa Rosa - On Cleveland Avenue just south of the Coddingtown mall and just 2 blocks north of College Avenue.

(707) 546-2466 | www.dargenziowine.com

46 Santa Rosa

Mention Day Trips and receive two tastings for the price of one plus 20% off six or more bottles.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Chateau Ador is conveniently located just north of Santa Rosa on Old Redwood Highway, down the road from Willis Wine Bar in my humble opinion, one of the best restaurants in Sonoma County and is easily accessible from Highway 101. When you pull up to the winery, your first impression is of lots of white latticework at the gate. The white lattice theme is continued with a large white trellis-like structure, which shades the picnic area. A goodly handful of black wrought iron picnic tables and chairs are scattered about under the trellis, creating a relaxing, welcoming ambience. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic, grab a bottle or six of wine and relax and stay a while. Once inside the winery and tasting room is where visitors may see (and taste) what makes Chateau Ador different from other local wineries. A long, granite-topped tasting bar spans the back of the room. A variety of wines and medals from various wine competitions are proudly displayed around the room. The overall atmosphere is bright, cheerful and colorful. Lets talk about the wines. The 2012 Chateau Ador Chardonnay is varietally correct, with abundant aromas and flavors of baked apple, citrus and buttered toast, all wrapped up in a juicy, richly textured mouthfeel. The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon is a steal at only $28! It has mouthwatering aromas of black cherry, spice and cedar, which continue as flavors in By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench the luscious, silky mouth.

VARIETALS Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Vintage White (white wine blend) and Vintage Red (red wine blend) PLAN AHEAD Bring a picnic to enjoy in the nicely shaded picnic area, and then take a stroll around the hilltop. FUN FACT Chateau Ador is available for private parties.

Chateau Ador
Open Friday-Sunday 12 to 5 p.m. or by appointment Monday-Thursday 4080 Old Redwood Highway Santa Rosa, California (707) 528-6750 www.jjcustomwines.com

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Santa Rosa

47

SONOMA VALLEY
Wine Tasting in
TO SANTA ROSA

TO SANTA ROSA

LOS

RD OS AM

IC K

Adler Fels
LN

LEDSON

CO

RR

R TD ON KM OA

IAN TH PY

St. Francis

RD

MACLEOD FAMILY VINEYARD St. Annes Crossing MATANZAS BY APPT. ONLY NakedWines.com PARADISE RIDGE CREEK
B

LE DA WN LA

Sable Ridge

VJB CELLARS

Mayo Reserve Room Muscardini

Ty Caton & Enkidu En Garde B Wise

AD

Landmark Vineyard

Kaz

E OB

N CA

. N RD YO

CHATEAU ST. JEAN KENWOOD VINEYARDS

Sugarloaf State Park

Y RD INER DW WOO KEN

WARM SP RI NG S RD

OA D

RM SPR WA INGS RD

Wine Country doesnt get more real than Sonoma Valley, whose rich soils mark the birthplace of Californias wine industry. Its also the closest wine region to San Francisco, just 45 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Cradled between the Mayacamas and the Sonoma Mountain ranges, Sonoma Valley encompasses a rolling patchwork of vineyards, quaint farms and 13,000 acres of scenic parkland. In the center of town, the eight-acre Sonoma Plaza is a National Historic Landmark, strewn with sprawling shade trees and bordered by carefully preserved adobe buildings. Up the road in Glen Ellen, author and bohemian adventurer Jack London lived and wrote at his pristine Beauty Ranch, now an 800-acre state historic park. The historic Sonoma Plaza lies at the heart of Sonoma Valley gateway region to Sonoma County. Sonoma Plazas done it all Mexican military outpost, fleeting frontier republic, Spanish Mission village. Now a gorgeous historic landmark and slow culture capitol, Sonoma Plaza radiates romance around every corner, cafe and cobblestone. Whether youre here for an overnight or extended stay, Sonoma Plaza offers the picture-perfect start (and end) to your adventures. Its a pedestrian paradise, so ditch the car keys and discover Real Wine Country on foot or bicycle. The Plazas old adobe storefronts, meandering alleyways, sunlit courtyards and historic landmarks hum with an eclectic mix of restaurants, hotels, tasting rooms, cafes, artisan boutiques, galleries even a vintage movie house. As for the nature lover, wildflower hikes and stunning hilltop vistas abound within just a short distance. Anchoring it all is the tranquil Plaza itself, whose vast green stretches of lawn and immense tree canopy create a lush setting for picnics, cultural activities and weekly farmers markets. SonomaValley.com

Jack London DON R State Park LON

Benziger Family
RD. ANCH

DUNB AR R

VALLEY OF THE MOON


Paint Horse Winery Robert Hunter

ARNOLD DRIVE

GEHRICK E

GROVE
ORANGE

W. SPAIN ST.
THE PLAZA
PETALUMA

5th ST WEST

BROADW AY

5th ST EAST

Clarbec Winery

Bump Wine Cellars

Petroni R2 Wine Co.

EAST NAPA ST

7th ST

4th E

Sebastiani

LOVE LL

VALLE Y RD

IN .V RD TLE CAS

A RD

VE

RD

RA

12

EY

LN

TO PETALUMA

Parmelee Hill

NI ERO LEV

ROAD

12
ONT FREM

116

48 Sonoma Valley

TO PETALUMA

Schug Carneros Estate

Robledo Family

U EA NN BO

Anaba

Gloria Ferrer

Bonneau

PROHIBITION SPIRITS CARNEROS LARSON BREWING Homewood FAMILY COMPANY Winery


Foyt Family Wines Keating Wines Tricycle Wine Partners

Macrostie

Tin Barn Patz & Hall

BURNDALE

NAPA

ROAD

8th ST EAST

EY RD. VALL TT NE EN

Deerfield Ranch

KUNDE FAMILY ESTATE


TO NAPA VALLEY

12
Wellington Winery

LOXTON
RD ITY TRIN

Mayo Family Imagery

Pangloss

Korbin Kameron

CAR QUIN EZ

LAUREL GLEN

Talisman Wines

ERIC ROSS MOONDANCE CELLARS

Arrowood

Bucklin Old Hill Ranch

B.R. Cohn
MADRONE

Little Vineyards
CAVEDA LE

MOON MTN
AGUA CALIE NTE RO AD

Petroni Vineyards Ledson Mountain Terraces Vineyard

SONOMA PLAZA LEDSON CENTRE DU VIN


Adobe Road Auteur Bryter Estates Bump Wine Cellars Charles Creek Envolve Eric K James GlenLyon Hawkes Haywood Highway 12 Winery

BOY ES BLV D

Hanzell

AV E

Ravenswood

Kamen Estate MacLaren Roche Sigh (Sparkling) Sojourn Sonoma Enoteca Spann Two Amigos Walt Westwood

Bartholomew Park
IN D YR ER

D OL

Favero

Buena Vista

DENMARK

ST

Gundlach-Bundschu Scribe Gofessel 12 121 TO


NAPA

CARNEROS RD

ESS NN BO

MEADOWCROFT WINES

CORNERSTONE SONOMA

121

Not to Scale
TO VALLEJO

CLINE
101
TO SAN FRANCISCO

JACUZZI VIANSA
Rams Gate

37

Located off the historic square, Della Santinas is a familyowned and operated restaurant that has stood the test of time to become a Sonoma institution. The Della Santina family name shares a long lineage and history in the Tuscan town of Lucca, Italy. My father Quirico Salvatore Giovanni Della Santina migrated from Lucca in 1960. Residing in the North Beach area of San Francisco, Quirico became a baker by trade. Later, he was lured to Marin County by his uncle Adolph to work in the family restaurant: Marin Joes. After 25 years of successful ownership in a thriving business, he decided to go out on his own in beautiful Sonoma Valley. Since 1990, we have continued to bring Tuscan country cooking to the wine country using recipes passed down from my grandmothers Pia Fontana Della Santina and Clary Gambogi Barsotti. In 2008, we opened Enoteca Della Santina, a wine bar and retail wine shop specializing in wines from all over the world. Enoteca, translated literally in Italian, means wine library a place for people to enjoy a glass in an Old World ambiance. We have created a showcase for international as well as local, small producers. Our wine club has circumvented the globe looking for value selections that expand our members palates and knowledge. Day to day, the bar is a gathering spot for locals and tourists looking to experience a taste of Sonoma Wine Country living.
By Robert Della Santina

ENOTECA DELLA SANTINA NEXT DOOR SONOMAS BEST WINE BAR More than 300 selections of domestic and international wines at competitive prices 30 wines by the glass, customized flights and specialty beers Assorted cheeses available daily Winemaker dinners and educational seminars, call for schedule Thursdays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. Burger Thursdays Sundays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. Sausage and Suds Both locations are available for private events.

Della Santinas
The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; reservations are recommended.

133 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 935-0576 www.dellasantinas.com

Enoteca Della Santina


Open daily until 10 p.m. at least!

127 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 938-4200 www.enotecadellasantina.com

Wine Bar Enoteca Della Santina is open late, at least until 10 p.m.!
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Sonoma Valley

49

Wine Country Cyclery offers the perfect way to truly capture the grandeur of the Sonoma Valley. Why hassle with traffic when you can leisurely pedal to some of the valleys most celebrated tasting rooms? Wine country visitors who simply fly by the vineyards at fifty miles per hour are missing out on the very best aspects of the experience. The aroma of the grapes, the warmth of the sun and sound of gentle breezes rustling through the vines are best enjoyed at a much more relaxed pace. The knowledgeable staff at Wine Country Cyclery will gladly help you plan an unforgettable winery tour, supplying you with maps and tasting room coupons. The shop is conveniently located just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma and offers a wide range of bikes for every skill level and age of cyclist. Their fleet of road bikes features Comfort hybrids (including helmets and locks) as well as some of the very best for the serious cyclist Cannondale and Trek. The Cannondale and Trek rentals include clip-in pedals. If you are planning on bringing your own bicycle to the wine country, Wine Country Cyclery has experienced mechanics available seven days a week to do last-minute adjustments or make quick repairs. And, to finish off your day of adventure and sunshine, Wine Country Cyclery can arrange for you to savor a lite bite food and wine pairing at Roche Family Winery tasting room just off the Sonoma Plaza. With award-winning wines and scrumptious offerings, youll enjoy the perfect ending to your trip on their patio, gathered around the fire pit, wine glass in hand.

FUN FACTS Wine Country Cyclery boasts the youngest rental fleet of comfort hybrid bikes, replacing them yearly. Their high-end road bikes are continuously maintained for top performance. Already a cycling pro? Bring your own pedals, shoes, even your saddle a certified fitter will personally size you to your rental bike. If youre coming from far away, ship your bike to Wine Country Cyclery...theyll put it together and have it waiting for you. When youre ready to leave, theyll pack it carefully for a safe shipment back. Dont own your own equipment? They have a selection of helmets, locks and pedals such as Shimano and Look. PACKING A PICNIC? Wine Country Cyclery has bike trailers that can hold all of your goodies, as well as your wine purchases along the way! MAKE IT A FAMILY TRIP! Wine Country Cyclery has Tag-a-Long bikes that allow kids to enjoy the ride, too, as well as bike trailers that can seat two small children.

Wine Country Cyclery


Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

50

262 W Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 Reservations recommended (707) 996-6800 | winecountrycyclery.com Follow Wine Country Cyclery on Facebook!

Sonoma Valley

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Kenwood
THINGS TO DO Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Highway 12 & Adobe Canyon Rd, Kenwood

First driving into the Valley of the Moon is certainly a lushly sensory experience. Rolling hills, centuries-old Heritage Oaks and verdant vineyards drape the slopes and valley floor beneath Sonomas majestically craggy Mayacama mountain range. Graceful old country manors and their largely still in-tact estates dot the countryside while cozy towns still speak to neighborly days gone by. Kenwood boasts some of the finest artisan wineries in all of Northern California. Ty Caton, Muscardini Cellars, VJB, Mayo Reserve Room, Kenwood Vineyards, Kunde Estate, Deerfield Ranch, Enkidu, the Annadel Estate, Ledson, St. Francis and Chateau St. Jean are only some of the award-winning, gorgeous Wine Country Destinations located in and adjacent to Kenwood. Looking for a break from wine tasting? Enjoy shopping at Vita Bella or browse Swedes Feeds for garden and both large or small pets needs. Splurge on an ultra-luxurious massage or facial at the Kenwood Inn & Spa. Or simply sit out, pick up a Kenwood Press newspaper and unwind on the patio at Caf Citti or Kenwood Restaurant. FOOD Kenwood Restaurant 9900 Highway 12, Kenwood, CA 95452 (707) 833-6326, www.kenwoodrestaurant.com

Hikes include views, bridges and impressive waterfalls. Home of Ferguson Observatory largest in the western United States.
Kenwood Depot 314 Warm Springs Road, Kenwood (707) 833-5190, www.kenwooddepot.com

Kenwood Plaza Park Located on Warm Springs Road between Kenwood Depot and Kenwood Community Church

This 5-acre park comes complete with a play structure and picnic tables.
Kenwood Farmhouse 9255 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood (707) 833-1212

A favorite restaurant for local winemakers, vintners & celebrities. Fresh ingredients, great views, local/international wines.
Caf Citti 9049 Highway 12, Kenwood (707) 833-2690, www.cafecitti.com

Sonoma County Historic Landmark #46. Now a venue for special events, this historic landmark was once a working train station and was built from locally cut basalt.
Kenwood Community Church 9637 Channing Row, Kenwood www.kenwoodcommunitychurch.com

Gift shop specializing in the works of local artisans and craftsmen. Look for them on Facebook.
Swedes Feeds Pet Garden & Gifts 9140 Highway 12, Kenwood (707) 833-5050, swedesfeedskenwood.com

A trattoria style restaurant with great food, great value, great atmosphere.
Vineyards Inn 8445 Highway 12, Kenwood (707) 833-2300, www.vineyardsinn.com

Creative, organic, authentic flavors of Spain


VJB Cellars 60 Shaw Avenue, corner of Hwy. 12, Kenwood (707) 833-4500, www.vjbcellars.com

Charming church built in 1888.

Gifts, garden art, unsual plants and pottery.


Driving Time: 14 minutes From Kunde Family Estate to Kenwood Vineyards .3 miles to VJB Winery & Cellars .3 miles to Paradise Ridge .3 miles to Chateau St. Jean .8 miles to MacLeod 1.9 miles to Ledson Winery 2.1- miles Total 5.7 miles
C OBE AD

TO SANTA ROSA

S RD AMO LOS

Enjoying lunch of fresh panini or antipasti or a pizza from the wood-fired oven. Theres also an onsite chocolate and gelato shop!
LODGING Kenwood Inn And Spa 10400 Highway 12, Kenwood (707) 353-6966, www.kenwoodinn.com

LEDSON
IAN TH PY RD

ANYON RD.

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

TO SANTA ROSA

U ST. JEAN RD TEA CH A

CHATEAU ST. JEAN

PARADISE RIDGE Cafe Citti VJB CELLARS Mayo Family Reserve Room

KENWOOD VINEYARDS
Swedes Feeds Pets, Gardens & Gifts

Kenwood Farmhouse GS RD SPRIN Park WARM Depot Church Kenwood Restaurant Kenwood Inn and Spa

KUNDE FAMILY ESTATE WINERY

MATANZAS CREEK www.WineCountryThisWeek.com LOXTON CELLARS Beltane Ranch


B
WARM

Kenwood

51

SPR ING S RD

Photo courtesy of Kenwood Depot

MACLEOD FAMILY VINEYARD BY APPT ONLY

LE DA WN LA

12

Vineyards Inn

A secluded, luxury hotel; Mediterranean-inspired private restaurant; rated in the top three resort spas in the United States Cond Nast Traveler Readers Poll, April 2009.

TT NE EN

Y LLE VA

Kunde Family Estate Winery is well known throughout Sonoma Valley for their remarkable terroir driven wines and their Mountain Top Tasting Experience. For more than a century, five generations of the Kunde Family have farmed the 1,850 acre-estate located in Kenwood; a truly remarkable legacy in the modern age of California winemaking. The winery is still family owned and operated with a hands-on team of fourth and fifth generation family members at the helm. The family remains committed to innovation and state-of-the-art technologies, while also maintaining a deep, personal commitment to sustainable winegrowing and preserving the land for generations to come. Their winemaking philosophy is to craft elegant wines with a real sense of place; beautifully balanced and expressive of their dramatic vineyard landscape. All wines are handcrafted from 100% estate grown fruit and each bottle speaks to the distinct terroir. The result is an ideal backdrop for creating balanced fruit, and full-flavored, complex wines. They are known for their Mountain Top tastings and this is an epic experience that shouldnt be missed. Set at 1,400 feet above the valley floor, the Kundes mountaintop terrain has been transformed into a beautiful, shaded wooden deck overlooking their estate vineyards. Your job here is to relax and take in the view, while sipping a refreshing glass of Kunde Family Estate wine. At the main Tasting Room bar, guests will enjoy exclusive wines only found at the winery. For an intimate, seated tasting experience, reserve the Kinneybrook Room. Guests will taste exclusive and reserve wines. For a minimal upcharge, a cheese pairing course can also be included. By Alexandra Charsley

VARIETALS Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel and Port CELEBRATE The Estate offers a variety of breathtaking venues for weddings, receptions, parties and events. VISIT Take in the surrounding scenery of the estate with a patio picnic, overlooking the scenic Tasting Room grounds. Picnic tables around the pond provide the best place to spend an afternoon with a bottle of your favorite Kunde wine. Hike and Taste in the Vineyard is conducted monthly by Sonoma Valley docent Bill Myers and is an excellent opportunity to see their sustainable farming practices. For all hike information and reservations, visit kunde.com. WINE AGING CAVES Tucked into the hillside just behind the winery, are more than 32,000 square feet of wine aging caves. Complimentary tours are offered daily.

Kunde Family Estate Winery


Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9825 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA 95452 (707) 282-1537 | www.kunde.com

52

Kenwood

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

With so many wine tasting options in the Sonoma Valley it really is a no-brainer to choose to taste at Kenwood Vineyards. Winemaker Pat Henderson has been amassing a plethora of awards including, most recently, Double Gold, Golds and Silvers at the 2013 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Whether you sip the Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, the Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon, you will taste an award winner! Nestled in the heart of the Sonoma Valley, the Kenwood Vineyards tasting room is housed in a converted barn that dates back to 1906. The winery is committed to producing premium varietal wines that reflect Sonoma Countys finest vineyards in their character and style. More than 125 stainless steel fermenting and upright oak tanks are used in combination with 14,000 French and American oak barrels. Kenwood has earned the reputation of producing consistent, quality wines for more than 40 years. Make a reservation for the popular Art, Food & Wine Experience at Kenwood Vineyards every Sunday. Long known for the original artwork on their wine labels, the winery hosts the Experience every Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. where guests can taste the Cabernet Sauvignon while learning and viewing the renowned Artist Series collection. On display are original art pieces from the collection that began with the controversial 1975 Naked Lady by David Lance Goines. Savory appetizers are paired with the wines to provide an incomparable experience like no other in the Valley.
By Mike Hyland

ART, FOOD & WINE Reservations are required at least 72 hours in advance for the Art, Food & Wine Experience, every Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. For reservations, call (707) 282-4228 or go to www.kenwoodvineyards.com. The cost is $30 per person and $25 per person for wine club members. FUN FACT Since 1976, Kenwood Vineyards has the sole rights to all the grapes from the historic Jack London Vineyards. VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, White Zinfandel, Moscato, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Vintage White (blend), Vintage Red (blend), Sparkling Wine

Kenwood Vineyards
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

9592 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA 95452 (707) 833-5891 www.kenwoodvineyards.com Look for Kenwood Vineyards on Facebook & Twitter
Enjoy responsibly.

Mention this story to receive complimentary tasting.


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Kenwood

53

The moment guests step through the gate at VJB Vineyards and Cellars theyre transported to a small Italian village. Buildings made of stone and rustic wood beams lend an Old World feel, and on sunny, pleasant days the winerys piazza is full of happy visitors enjoying all that VJB has to offer. One of the first things guests notice as they enter is the Red Rooster Kitchen with its wood oven. Crisp Neapolitanstyle pizzas, calzones and flatbreads are delivered hot and fresh to guests tables to enjoy with one of VJBs many Italian varietal wines. Next, they might spot the sign for Kenwood Pasta Company where pastas are made fresh daily or the chocolate and gelato shop where many guests complete their visit with a taste of something sweet to send them on their way. Making their way toward the tasting room, theyll spot more guests enjoying authentic panini, cheese and salumi boards from La Cucina, the onsite deli and marketplace filled with Italian goods including owner Maria Belmontes own pasta sauces and pestos. Once at the tasting room bar, VJBs friendly, knowledgeable staff takes guests through one of two tasting options, including one that features the winerys most exclusive, limited-production wines such as the Estate Sangiovese or Montepulciano. Chances are visitors will try wines theyve never tasted before and gain an appreciation for these rare, California-grown Italian varietals that are produced with an eye toward New World innovation and Old World sensibility. From the wines to the architecture, the food and the hospitality, everything here is a testament to the Belmonte familys Italian heritage. Guests will undoubtedly leave here feeling like theyve experienced that unique culture.

STANDOUT WINES For wine tasters looking for a taste of something unique, VJB offers a large library of limited-production Italian varietals. The Barbera helped put VJB on the map, winning rave reviews from its earliest vintages a decade ago, and it still never fails to please. Tart red cherry aromas and flavors paired with a bright acidity make this a mouthwatering wine thats as versatile as it is easy to drink. The estate grown Montepulciano is a rare find and a great California expression of one of Italys most popular grapes. Cherry and ripe berry aromas are bolstered by a subtle earthiness. The mouthfeel is smooth and voluptuous making it an ideal pairing with braised meats and mushroom dishes. STAY AWHILE There truly is something for everyone who visits VJB. VJB is a food lovers paradise. Theres a marketplace packed with top of the line pantry goods, including owner Maria Belmontes own line of pasta sauces and pestos. The adjoining deli turns out an impressive array of panini and antipasti as well as a large selection of imported and locally produced cheeses and salumi. Pizzas from the wood-fired oven are one of the most popular items to enjoy along with a glass of wine. Guests can also browse in the newly opened Tommy Bahama shop or satisfy their sweet tooth with handmade wine-infused truffles or a scoop of gelato at the Wine Truffle Boutique.

VJB Vineyards & Cellars


Tasting 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Espresso Bar & Deli from 9 a.m.

60 Shaw Avenue, Kenwood


(Corner of Sonoma Highway 12 & Shaw Avenue)

(707) 833-2300 | ww.vjbcellars.com

54

Mention this story for complimentary tasting + 15 % savings on any wine purchase!
Kenwood
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Welcome to paradise! The Paradise Ridge tasting room that is! Located off Highway 12, next to the Kenwood Village in the heart of Sonoma Valley, Paradise Ridge promises a fun, stimulating and honest wine and art pairing experience like no other. When you arrive, you will be greeted by an authentic Tuscan fountain and large-scale sculptures, graced with stunning views of lush vineyards and Sugarloaf Ridge. Here you will taste some of the finest vineyard designated wines from the Russian River Valley and the exclusive Rockpile Viticultural area, as you enjoy a picnic under the warm Sonoma sun. On display on the tasting room walls are, original abstract and scenic artwork by budding artist, Travis Kubota, showcasing the winerys love for creativity, family, community, nature and history. As for which wines to try? Well, there are many, however, the 2010 Elevation Rockpile Cabernet Sauvignon is a must, a divine blend of Cabernet, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The staff will gladly tell you about this wine and those featured on their tasting menu. They are friendly and knowledgeable, taking pride in their viticulture education. You can also indulge in a sensational wine country pairing experience. Paradise Ridges Wine Herb Garden showcases the amazing flavors found in wine, as well as their Culinary Wine Pairings to help create your own delicious wine country inspired cuisine. You will see for yourself that wine and art are the perfect pairing at the Paradise Ridge tasting room. By Monica L. Dashwood

FUN FACTS You can catch the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley to Paradise Ridge Tasting Room every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The Rockpile region with its high elevation, full sun exposure, mild daytime temperatures and little water keeps the vines in a constant state of tension, an unparalleled environment for wine grapes. On Wednesdays at 6 p.m., starting in May, enjoy Wines & Sunsets in Paradise and bring a picnic to the Estate Tasting Room, located in Santa Rosa. Paradise Ridge Winery was founded in 1991 by Walter Byck and Marijke Byck-Hoenselaars. Together, they handcraft the highest quality, limited production, vineyard-designated wines. VARIETALS PRODUCED Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah, Petit Sirah, Zinfandel, Blush Ros, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, sparkling wine and proprietary blends

Paradise Ridge Byck Family Winery


Kenwood Tasting Room
Open Daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 8860 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, (707) 282-9020

Estate Tasting Room


4545 Thomas Lake Harris Drive Santa Rosa, (707) 528-9463 www.prwinery.com

Mention Day Trips for 2-for-1 tasting.


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Kenwood

55

As patrons arrive at Chateau St. Jean they are greeted by an expansive European-inspired garden. The topiary is a true spectacle which creates a defined ambiance of both grandeur and sophistication. The adjacent patio allows patrons to fully admire the garden even before they have had a chance to taste. Chateau St. Jean has two tasting room options. The main tasting room has one of the largest wine-related gift shops in Sonoma Valley and offers a well-balanced sampling of both whites and reds. The Vineyard Room, located directly across from the main tasting room, focuses on Chateau St. Jeans higher-end wines. Chateau St. Jean is well known in many wine circles. Total annual production consists of 45 different wines (17 of which are distributed). One of its most highly reputable wines is known as the Cinq Cpages. A winner of countless awards over the years, the Cinq Cpages is arguably the most complex wine in Chateau St. Jeans wine repertoire. In fact, for $75 per person, one can experience all of the different components that go into the wine with the Cinq Cpages blending seminar. It lasts roughly one hour and the everyday wine drinker can feel like an expert as they create their own blend and compete with other tour members in the Best Blend contest. Another option is the Promenade Tour and Tasting a relaxing guided tour of the stunning estate that takes place daily at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. For $20 per person, an educated host will teach you the rich history as well as the growing cycle and the fruit characteristics of several grape varieties while sipping on some of their finest wines.

WHAT NOT TO MISS The gardens stand alone as truly a spectacular sight. The Vineyard Room tasting may be $10 more than the regular, but one should invest in the experience itself and taste premium wines in the comfort of an outside patio overlooking beautiful hills and vineyards. STANDOUT WINES Cinq Cpages, Reserve Merlot, Reserve Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Fum Blanc and for the sweet wine drinker, the Gewrztraminer ONE STOP SHOPPING Chateau St. Jean has an exquisite merchandise section with assorted sandwiches, cheeses, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, as well as anything one would need in order to create a superb picnic experience. With grounds as beautiful as this, one can plan an entire day around the bounty of Chateau St. Jean.

Chateau St. Jean


Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 8555 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood www.chateaustjean.com For tours & reservations, call 1-877-478-5326 Follow Chateau St. Jean on Facebook!

56 Kenwood

2 for 1 wine tasting in the Main Tasting Room and 15% off wine purchases with this story.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Hows this for a unique and totally unforgettable wine country experience? After a slightly bumpy drive down a long country road, you arrive at a barn surrounded by rolling hills covered in verdant vines. There you will probably be greeted by George the 93-yearold Patron of the MacLeod family or another family member, standing next to a chalkboard with a personalized message welcoming you to MacLeod Family Vineyardor as George calls it, a retirement project out of control. You then walk out into the vineyard with one of the MacLeods for a bit of viticultural education, some stories about Sonoma Valley history and a few MacLeod tales. Under a towering oak, a picnic table is set for your private tasting of some of the most luscious wines the area has to offer, paired with delicious morsels of local cheeses, fresh raspberries and dark chocolate. Nowhere else will you be given such a remarkable, upclose-and-personal experience with a family-owned and operated winery. The MacLeods affectionately refer to their picturesque slice of heaven as a workaholic theme park and everyone in the family, or as they call it, the Association, gets in on the act. Monday through Saturday at 10:30 a.m., George, his daughter-in-law, Marjorie or another family member escorts just one small, and very fortunate, tour group of no more than eight through the vineyard. They take great pride in pouring their award-winning Sauvignon Blanc, Ros, Merlot and Zinfandel for visitors and sharing fascinating insights into how grapes are grown and nurtured, how the winery was created and even a few tales of the areas rich history. The MacLeods have created a one-of-a-kind wine country experience that will give you a host of tales of your own to tell for years to come. by Ronda Giangreco

FUN FACTS: In the barn hangs a map of the US and every new Wine Association member gets to place a pin on their hometown! If the weather is not suited for outdoor tasting, you will join the family in their home. George MacLeod graduated from Stanford University in 1943 and got his Masters there in 1948. The Sauvignon Blanc wine was recently named the Stanford University Alumni Association Governors Selection. If you have ever wanted to know what really goes on in a vineyard, and how that influences wine, come for a vineyard tour. You may be invited to prune, tuck, measure sugar levels or whatever activity is currently going in the vineyard. Then sit down at a picnic table under a spreading oak tree high in the vineyard overlooking the beautiful Valley of the Moon. Tours are scheduled Monday through Saturday at 10:30 a.m. The cost is $20 per person.

You must make an appointment in advance by calling (707) 833-4312 or visit www.macleodfamilyvineyard.com.

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Kenwood

57

Ledson Winery is well known to locals and visitors throughout the world for their prestigious wines, picturesque castle and stately grounds. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for tastings and food, they have now created the ultimate tasting experience for guests to enjoy during their stay in wine country. This exclusive, and very limited, private wine tasting will be the pinnacle of your trip as you taste wines with Steve Ledson, owner and winemaker, or with one of his assistant winemakers. Learn about the Ledson family history, vineyards and methods in crafting these small-lot wines. This is a creative tasting experience that allows guests to tour their grounds, pair small bites and artisan cheeses with their wines, or reserve a vineyard tour of the acclaimed Mountain Terraces Vineyards and taste in their tasting room, located at 2,000 feet on the southwestern face of the Mayacamas Mountain Range. With views of not only the entire Sonoma Valley wine country but the entire San Francisco Bay Area these tasting must be booked in advance and can fit any small group, up to eight guests. Let their wine concierge assist you with booking and their impeccable service means every detail is carefully coordinated to make this tasting experience unforgettable! Steve Ledson continues to make small-lot wines showcasing the absolute best that Sonoma County has to offer. 250 acres of estate vineyards account for 80% of their wines. Since the Ledson family is one of the oldest families in Sonoma, their extraordinary relationships with local family growers throughout the generations allows them to select the finest fruit to round out their portfolio. All wines found here are terroir driven and expressive in character, richness and depth. Ledson Winery is a destination estate and the wines, views and family winemaking history By Alexandra Charsley offer guests a tasting experience like no other.

FUN FACTS The Ledson Family has been in Sonoma Valley for over 150 years. The Mountain Terraces tasting and vineyard tour are hosted by winemaker Steve Ledson or one of his assistant winemakers explaining their three different soil types, micro- climate and viticulture practices. They will all provide guests with an engaging, fun and personal experience you dont want to miss. VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Malbec, Merlot, Sangiovese, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Barbera, Mourvedre, Primitivo, Grenache, Carignane, Red Blends, Port, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Riesling and Orange Muscat

Ledson Winery & Vineyards


7335 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood CA 95409 (707) 537-3823 for private tastings (707) 537-3810 for general information www.ledson.com Email: tastings@ledson.com or info@ledson.com

58 Kenwood

Upgraded Tasting: Purchase a tasting of 6 wines and receive an upgrade to 9 wines.


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Follow Highway 12, once the railway system, through the Valley of the Moon to the bucolic berg of Glen Ellen! Glen Ellen is more than just a town. It is the foodie and wine destination for Sonoma locals. Located north of downtown Sonoma on Arnold Drive, just west of Highway 12, Glen Ellen restaurants and town market celebrate the best of local wines, produce and services. Check out Glen Ellens award-winning wineries such as Eric Ross, Benzinger, Audelssa, HKG, Mayo Family, B.R. Cohn, Arrowood and Moondance Cellars. Enjoy a rejuvenating spa experience inside a large, historic wine cask at Magical Massage. Walk Jack Londons hillsides and explore the famous ruins of his Wolf House. Or, gather with friends and family at local spots such as The Fig Caf, Glen Ellen Inn, Garden Court Caf, Glen Ellen Star and Yeti the best curry youll have outside of India. Whatever your taste, Glen Ellen is one sweet town that satisfies time and again. THINGS TO DO Jack London State Historical Park 2400 London Ranch Rd., Glen Ellen

Glen Ellen

FOOD Glen Ellen Inn Oyster Grill & Martini Bar 13670 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 996-6409, www.glenelleninn.com

Fusion of local ingredients paired with French, Asian and Italian influences.
Glen Ellen Star 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 343-1384, glenellenstar.com

The menu features rustic California Wine Country cuisine with local and international influences including delicious offerings from the wood-burning brick oven.
Yeti Restaurant 14301 Arnold Drive, Jack London Village, Glen Ellen (707) 996-9930, www.yetirestaurant.com

Half-mile-longSANTA traiTO l ROSA cirlcles through world-famous author, Jack Londons Beauty Ranch features the remai ns LEDSON of Jack Londons dream home destroyed by fire before moving in as well as a museum and the grave site of Jack and Charmian London.
SR AMO LOS D
IAN TH PY

Bouverie Preserve 13935 Highway 12, Glen Ellen (707) 938-4554, www.egret.org

RD

Magnificent 535-acre property features a rich and distinct combination of plants and animals, including more than 130 species of birds, 350 species of flowering plants and numerous large mammals such as the bobcat, Sugarloaf Ridge grey fox, and coyote. State Park
C OBE AD

Fusion of both Nepalese and Indian cultures.


Garden Court Cafe 13647 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 935-1565, www.gardencourtcafe.com

ANYON RD.

MACLEOD FAMILY Quarryhill Botanical Garden VINEYARD BY APPT ONLY

12 The RedInn Barn Store at Oak Hill Farm Vineyards U ST. JEAN RD T EA 15101 Highway 12, Glen Ellen CHA CHATEAU ST. JEAN 12841 Highway 12, Glen Ellen (707) 996-6643, www.oakhillfarm.net PARADISE RIDGE (707) 996-6027, www.quarryhillbg.org Cafe Citti Rustic 100-year-old dairy barn selling fresh KENWOOD VINEYARDS

TO SANTA ROSA

LE DA WN LA

A local favorite for breakfast, brunch and lunch. If you leave hungry, its your own fault.
Glen Ellen Village Market 13751 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 996-6728, www.sonoma-glenellenmkt.com

VJB Asian botanical gardens featuringMayo one ofCELLARS the Swedes Feeds herbs, lettuce, heirloom vegetables, flowers Family Reserve Room Pets, Gardens & Gifts largest collections of documented, Kenwood Farmhouse and ornamental greens, hand-crafted Park wild-collected Asian plants in the world. Depot Church wreaths, dri e d goods, bouquets and gifts. KUNDE FAMILY
GS RD SPRIN WARM

Pack the perfect picnic at this wine country inspired gourmet market with fresh, local products.
LODGING Gaige House Inn 13540 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 935-0237, www.gaige.com

Kenwood Restaurant Kenwood Inn and Spa

ESTATE WINERY
Driving Time: 27 minutes From Matanzas Creek to Laurel Glen 7.4 miles to Eric Ross and Moondance Cellars .8 mile Valley of the Moon 1.7 miles to Loxton Cellars 4.6 mile Total 14.5 miles

SPR ING S RD

MATANZAS CREEK
B
TT NE EN
D. YR LLE VA

LOXTON CELLARS
D UNBAR R D

Beltane Ranch

Asian-inspired ambiance combined with modern luxury. Granite soaking tubs and private Japanese gardens perfect for in-suite spa treatments. Michelin recommended. Ranked as 18 in Conde Nasts Top Small Hotels in the U.S.
Beltane Ranch 11775 Highway 12, Glen Ellen www.beltaneranch.com, (707) 996-6501

WARM

SP WARM RINGS R D

Jack London State Park

ON ND LO

CH RD. RAN

Gaige House Inn Glen Ellen Star

Glen Ellen Inn LAUREL Jack London Lodge Glen Ellen GLEN Village Market

Quarry Hill Botanical Garden Bouverie Preserve

ERIC ROSS Yeti MOONDANCE VALLEY OF CELLARS THE MOON WINERY


MADRONE

1892 ranch house and cottage walking trails lead past horses and cattle, through vineyards, olive orchards and organically farmed produce gardens.
Jack London Lodge 13740 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen www.jacklondonlodge, (707) 938-8510

The Red Barn Store at Oak Hill Farm

CAVEDALE

Situated on Sonoma Creek quiet, peaceful setting with a pool, heated spa and lovely gardens. Facility includes Wolf House Restaurant and historic Jack London Saloon.

ARNOLD DRIVE

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
AGUA CA LIENTE ROAD

Glen Ellen

59

This is what visiting Wine Country is all about roll down the windows, let the fresh country air flow and meander the scenic winding road past horses, dairy cows and vineyards, all just to see where the road might lead. Today let the road take you to Matanzas Creek Winery, a place that offers something for the wine lover, the gardener, the epicurian. Matanzas Creek, which put the bucolic east Santa Rosa neighborhood of Bennett Valley on the map, took its name from the creek that drains away the runoff in the valley. The area enjoys a unique microclimate among North Coast appellations, with cooling influences from several fronts - the Russian River Valley and Petaluma Gap from the west and southwest, and the San Pablo Bay to the south and southeast. Matanzas Creek produces a wide range of wines that reflect the viticultural diversity of Bennett Valley and Sonoma County. Currently the winery is showcasing the Merlot, the perfect fall and winter season wine. Visitors flock to Matanzas Creek in the spring and early summer when the lavender fields are in bloom. The Days of Wine and Lavender event takes place during the peak season: the last weeks in June. Lavender has long been a much celebrated co-star here, and a section of the tasting room is dedicated to a myriad of lavender products including soaps, scents, oils and spa products made at the By Michelle J. Baker winery.

VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and dessert wine WHAT TO TASTE The Journey wines, crafted from the most pedigreed vineyard sites in Sonoma County. Try the new Journey Sauvignon Blanc in addition to the Journey Chardonnay or the Journey Red Wine, a Bordeaux-style blend. WINE AND CHEESE PAIRING Matanzas Creek now offers a decadent wine and cheese tasting expertly paired and prepared by the winery chefs offered all day, every day! DAILY TOUR Matanzas Creek offers a special tour of its famed Estate Gardens and Lavender Field every day at 10:30 a.m. includes wine tasting, no reservation needed. LITTLE KNOWN FACT You can take a free, self-guided vineyard tour during regular tasting room hours. The walk is less than a mile and is designed for all ages and levels of wine experience. No reservations required.

Matanzas Creek Winery


Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

6097 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 1-800-590-6464 | (707) 528-6464 info@matanzascreek.com | www.matanzascreek.com

60 Glen Ellen
Not to scale

Mention Day Trips and Receive $5.00 off per person on our Wine and Cheese Pairing
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Laurel Glen Vineyard is a beautiful mountain vineyard that is well known for producing highly rated Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the past under the direction of founder Patrick Campbell. Patrick focused efforts on developing and producing wines in Lodi and South America and eventually decided to sell the vineyard. In 2011, Bettina Sichel, a veteran of the California wine industry, became the steward of Laurel Glen Vineyard after teaming up with a group of wine lovers to purchase the iconic estate. She brings over 20 years of working with the finest producers of Cabernet Sauvignon and believes that with improved organic farming, more careful handling of the fruit and gentler fermentation techniques, the new wines are already noticeably more exciting. One key upgrade was the addition of the Laurel Glen Vineyard Tasting Room which is open daily. Guests are offered two different seated tasting options. For $20, guests can taste four current release wines and this fee is refundable with a wine purchase or waived for members of the Laureate Club. For $30, reserve a Library Wine Tasting and experience 4 vintages of our flagship Laurel Glen Vineyard Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, spanning at least 10 years of production. Both tasting experiences offer insight into the rich history of Laurel Glen as well as their future plans. Bettina along with her knowledgeable winemakers and team are on a mission to restore the stylistic elegance with a balance of acidity and fruit ripeness, finesse and ageability to their estate Cabernet Sauvignon. To schedule your tasting, visit their website at www.laurelglen.com or call (707) 933-9877. By Alexandra Charsley

FUN FACTS Co-owner Bettina Sichel is the daughter of Peter M.F. Sichel, the man responsible for making Blue Nun a household name in America. She is the fifth generation of the Sichel family to work in the wine business. The vineyard is planted with its own UC Davis certified Laurel Glen Cabernet Sauvignon clone. VARIETALS PRODUCED Cabernet Sauvignon and Ros 2010 The Laureate Cabernet Sauvignon Robert Parker gives our inaugural release 94 Points and a Bravo! 2010 Laurel Glen Cabernet Sauvignon Its the finest Laurel Glen Cabernet Sauvignon I have tasted in over a decade, Robert Parker - 92+ Points 2011 Laurel Glen Crazy Old Vine Ros Half of the fruit is Cabernet and the other half is red varietals from the original 1880s vineyard.

Laurel Glen Vineyard


Open daily

969 Carquinez Avenue Glen Ellen, CA 95442 (707) 933-9877 www.laurelglen.com Email: info@laurelglen.com Look for Laurel Glen Vineyard on Facebook and YouTube

Mention Day Trips for a complimentary taste of a Library selection


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Glen Ellen

61

Among Erics Silver Image photo label series is the Russian River Pinot Noir Poule d Or.

If one is charged with finding a perfect wine for the perfect meal, Eric Ross is the place to look. Eric Ross specializes in wines from some of the most prestigious local wine growing regions, varietals originating from France, Spain and even Portugal. Any wine lover can discover a wine that goes with their favorite meal, or simply enjoying a glass on the front porch. Stylistically, each wine makes a sophisticated statement blossoming the longer one savors it with a elegant finish. As you discover a new quality wine with every sip take a moment to experience the photography adorning the tasting room walls. The winemaker, Eric Luse, began his wine journey as a photographer for the San Francisco Chronicle. Fascinated by wine and the wine country lifestyle Luse began college level training of winemaking and viticulture while continuing to photograph vineyard workers as the seasons changed in the vineyards. Erics photography reflects the personality of his subject and his winemaking follows the same philosophy. Its not about the winemaker its about the vineyard. Whether its the Albarino, Tempranillo, Grenache or Pinot Noir they all reflect the personality of those specific vineyards. With a total annual production of roughly 3000 cases, Eric Ross does not distribute outside of the tasting room enjoying a robust wine club and tasting room experience. So, stop at Eric Ross, pick up some fabulous wine and open one tonight it is sure to make your dinner exceptional.

WINES NOT TO MISS 2012 Viognier Caties Corner, Russian River This gorgeous Viognier fruit has a big personality! It is rich fat and floral which begs to be worked over utilizing the introduction of a limited amount of about 20% new French Oak building in the background. Named after Saralee and Rich Kundes daughter, Caties Corner is also the site where Erics son Austin, at 12 years old, almost took out a vineyard end post learning to drive, now that would have been fun to explain to Saralee! 2011 Tempranillo Lodi sustainable farming produces this rich exotic Spanish varietal showing layers of blackberry, espresso and dark chocolate, followed by hints of dry-cured black Moroccan olives. VARIETALS Albarino, Viognier, Russian River Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Old Vine Zinfandel, Syrah, Struttin Red Blend, Struttin White Blend, Old Vine Zin Port are available by the case or the bottle during regular tasting room hours with 20% discounts available for club members. LEARN MORE Each of Luses photos has a vivid story behind it. Feel free to ask about the individual lives of the vineyard workers that he has so eloquently depicted and memorialized. The beauty of some specific pictures stem from the minimalistic presentation of the photograph contrasted with the depths of emotion in the central point of focus.

Eric Ross Winery


Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

14300 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 939-8525 | www.ericross.com For private tastings, contact Dennis & Diane (707) 939-8525 or ddmitchell@ericross.com

62 Glen Ellen

Complimentary tasting with purchase with this Day Trip


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Not everyone in the wine industry takes themselves seriously. Some have a blast doing what they love and enjoying the ride. Priscilla and David Cohen are two of the most friendly, approachable vintners in Sonoma County. Their casual, welcoming tasting room offers exactly the kind of personal, one-of-a-kind wine country experience that many people seek when visiting this famous region. David came by his skills as a winemaker with the assistance of such luminaries of the trade as Helen Turley and the late John Speed. David was then able to hone his own craft and take his place alongside the best. Moondance Cellars is truly a boutique winery, producing small lots of award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel from grapes grown in some of the most celebrated vineyards of Napa, Sonoma, Russian River and Dry Creek Valley. Priscillas and Davids white wine varietals are offered as Orchard Station wines; a nod to the Petaluma and Santa Rosa Railroad particularly to the station building, which now houses the winery near Sebastopol. The un-oaked (naked) Orchard Station Chardonnay was recently awarded the Best of Class/Gold Medal from the prestigious Grand Harvest Awards. All of Davids other wines submitted were also medal winners! Located in historic Jack London Village, in the sleepy little village of Glen Ellen, Moondance Cellars requires that you take a moment and step off the beaten path. You will be amply awarded for your efforts. Either David or Priscilla themselves will likely be around to greet you and pour their marvelous wines, along with a few tall tales sure to produce a hearty round of laughter at the tasting bar. This is where wine tasting means a darned good time.

FUN FACTS Sonoma Valley Portworks, the only winery in Sonoma County specializing exclusively in after-dinner wines and Ports, shares a spot in the tasting room, where guests can taste up to six Ports and dessert wines. Winemaker/Hot Rod-Nut, Davids pride and joy is his 1965 blown candy brandy-wine Corvette, soon to share the garage with his latest project, a fuel-injected 1966 Chevy Nova. Priscilla likes to spend as many days off as possible astride her quarter horse gelding, Ima Revin Lena, aka: Teddy, exploring the back country of Sonoma County and its state park treasures. A secret door leads to neighboring Wine Country Chocolates, where tasting dessert after the dessert wines completes the ultimate sweet tooth tasting experience.

Moondance Cellars
Open Thursday-Monday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

14301 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 823-0880 www.moondancecellars.com For tours & reservations, call (707) 938-7550 Follow them on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter.

Mention Day Trips for 2 for 1 wine tasting and 10% off wine purchase.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Glen Ellen

63

THE PLACE VALLEY OF THE MOON WINERY borrows its name from the English translation of the Native American word Sonoma and has been at the heart of the regions winemaking heritage since its founding in 1941. Its historic winery is located on the onceprosperous Madrone Vineyard Estate, originally planted in 1863, where it thrived in the pre-prohibition era of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Over its storied history the winery, then known as Madrone Vineyards, changed hands many times and has survived through many iterations. In 1941, the estate was sold to Italian sausage makers Enrico Parducci and Peter Domenici. The pair renamed the estate Valley of the Moon in deference to its deep roots in Sonoma Valley. Today, 150 years since its original planting, Valley of the Moon Winery is undergoing nothing short of a momentous renaissance to finally take its rightful place among Sonoma Valleys most celebrated wineries. VALLEY OF THE MOON we are Sonoma. EXPERIENCE THE NEW VALLEY OF THE MOON WINERY The original gateway to the stunning Sonoma Valley, Valley of the Moon offers wines of extraordinary quality and exceptional experience in the heart of the valley that bears its name. Daily barrel tastings Rugged vineyard tours Food and wine pairings prepared by the acclaimed winery chef Live music and events Bocce courts and picnic areas

TASTINGS Winemakers Selection: $15 per person Enjoy Valley of the Moon wines at the dynamic tasting bar or on the elegant outdoor patio. Barrel Tasting: $25 per person A treat for experts and novices alike. Get an intimate view of the historic winery and the importance of barrels in winemaking by tasting the award-winning wines right from the barrel. TOURS $35 per person Take a walk on the Moon and dive into the history of Sonoma Valley and Valley of the Moon Winery. Includes a tour of the grounds, a look at the vineyards and an examination at the winemaking process. A 90-minute experience reservations are required

Private food and wine tasting experiences, corporate outings and events are also available!

Valley of the Moon Winery


Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Open until 6 p.m. on Fridays for Happy Hour 777 Madrone Road, Glen Ellen CA 95442 (707) 939-4510 www.valleyofthemoonwinery.com

64

Show this issue to receive a complimentary cheese plate with the purchase of two tastings or two tastings for the price of one.

Glen Ellen

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

It has always been my intent to produce wines that show balance and a sense of place and to produce the best wines possible without compromise, says Chris Loxton, a fourth generation winemaker who produced his first wines in 1996. Our winery, in the heart of the Sonoma Valley, is a place where visitors can relate to how the wine tastes, where they are made and by whom. Loxtons father, grandfather and great grandfather were all winegrowers and winemakers in his native Australia, but Chris was so taken with California that he was determined to make wine in the Sonoma Valley. This valley has so much history when it comes to winemaking, says Loxton. Here in my little corner of the world I am surrounded by history Kunde Vineyards established in 1870, Pagnani Vineyards since 1885 and Wellington started in 1890 all surround my property. Some 120 years of growing grapes means there is something right with the soil here. Loxton has taken it upon himself to show off that history to his guests by giving a personally guided Vineyard Walk of his property to show his various vineyards and why they are played where they are. Its the soil that dictates what to grow and where to grow it, says Loxton, not the winegrower. Following the 30 to 45 minute walking tour of the property, Loxton brings his guests back to the tasting room for a special, sit down tasting, explaining the nuances in each of the wines that are being sampled. The tour schedules will increase during the summer months, and start around 10:30 a.m. Reservations are recommended. By Mike Hyland

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED If visiting Loxton Cellars on a weekend, call ahead (707935-7221) and reserve a spot for the Vineyard Walk with owner/winemaker Chris Loxton. The educational tour takes about 90 minutes and ends with a special tasting. VARIETALS Chardonnay (2), Pinot Noir, Zinfandel (2), Syrah (4), Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Red Blends, Port DONT MISS The 2010 Cabernet-Shiraz Grandfathers Cuvee is a tribute to Chriss grandfather and is a common blend in Australia. The Shiraz, some of which comes from the Estate, softens and fills out the Cabernet to make a rich and seamless wine. The port, made using Syrah from the Estate Vineyard has been a consistent gold medal winner at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair.

Loxton Cellars
Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

11466 Dunbar Road Glen Ellen, CA 95442 (707) 935-7221 www.loxtoncellars.com

Dont miss the Walkabout Tours on Saturday and Sunday mornings, only $20 per person.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Glen Ellen

65

Los Carneros
THINGS TO DO Sonoma Country Antiques 23999 Arnold Drive (Hwy 121) Sonoma (707) 938-8315, www.sonomaantiques.com FOOD Fremont Diner 2698 Fremont Drive, Sonoma (707) 938-7370 www.thefremontdiner.com Like em on Facebook

On the south end of Sonoma is one of the most unique appellations, Los Carneros, that bridges both Napa and Sonoma counties. Colloquially known as simply Carneros (or ram in Spanish), Carneros has long been known for its cool, coastal climate, natural beauty and unparalleled Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, Syrahs and sparkling wines.

Buyers have been traveling to Europe for over three decades, hand selecting one-of-a-kind Old-fashioned style roadside hamburger joint antiques and accessories. Explore and be inspired in our 10,000 square feet of elegantly with updated menu. Fresh, local ingredients. Try the pulled-pork sandwich or grilled cheese designed showrooms. with sage and be sure to splurge on the CornerStone Sonoma milkshakes!
23570 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 933-3010 www.cornerstonegardens.com

CornerStone Sonoma is an eclectic collection of shops, wineries and a gourmet cafe set amidst nine acres of garden installations created by the world's leading landscape architects.
Vintage Aircraft Co. 3982 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 938-2444, www.vintageaircraft.com

Sonomas Best 1190 East Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 (707) 996-7600, www.sonomas-best.com

The old-fashioned landmark store offers food products for which the County of Sonoma is famous artisanal cheeses, salads and soups, tamales, charcuterie, pastries and ice cream along with exquisite Blue Bottle Coffee.
Schellville Grill 22900 Broadway, Sonoma (707) 996-5151, www.schellvillegrill.com

Viansa Tasting Room & Marketplace 25200 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA, 95476 (707) 935-4726, www.viansa.com

Viansa is the perfect place to have a relaxing lunch they offer fresh made sandwiches, salads, antipasti, soups, and fruit salads to enjoy with Viansa wines and phenomenal views. Weahter permitting, you can also enjoy a game of bocce ball!
LODGING El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen 405 1st Street West, Sonoma (707) 996-3220, www.eldoradosonoma.com

Get a birds eye view of the rolling hills carpeted in vineyards all the way to San Francisco and beyond! Offering safe, exciting flying experiences since 1975..
12
Sonoma Hotel El Dorado Hotel
ST AG EG UL CH

BBQ fare, sandwiches and burgers. Dynamite food, according to Guy Fieri, with better than any store-bought barbecue sauce.
Driving Time: 12 minutes From Viansa to Jacuzzi >1 mile to Cline >1 mile to Meadowcroft .9 miles to Larson Family 1.8 miles to Prohibition Spirits 1.9 miles to Carneros Brewing 1.9 miles Total 7 miles
7T H

27-room contemporary boutique hotel located on the Plaza. Restaurant is sophisticated urban style with relaxed winecountry dining.
Sonoma Hotel 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma (707) 996-2996, www.sonomahotel.com

FRAT ES

Lodge at Sonoma

BR OA DW AY

116

MacArthur Place E N
NA PA

116

AP A

LO VA LL
E.

A 16-room, 19th-century hotel with modern amenities. Located downtown on the plaza.
MacArthur Place 29 E. MacArthur Street, Sonoma (707) 938-2929, www.macarthurplace.com

ST

VA LL

EY

Schellville Grill

E.

RD

Sonomas Best

12 LARSON FAMILY 121


Sonoma Country Antiques CornerStone Sonoma Vintage Aircraft Co.

PROHIBITION SPIRITS
ND AL E BU R

MEADOWCROFT WINES CARNEROS BREWING COMPANY

19th-century estate transformed into a luxurious inn and spa featuring Saddles Sonomas best steakhouse
The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa 1325 Broadway, Sonoma (707) 935-6600, www.thelodgeatsonoma.com

8T H

Fremont Diner

66

37

Los Carneros

RA MA L

LA VIL KE LE . RD

CLINE

121

JACUZZI VIANSA

Spacious and luxurious accommodations; world-class Raindance Spa; award-winning Carneros Bistro & T ON Wi nAePA Bar; excellent venue for weddings and corporate events.

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Discover Little Italy in Sonoma Wine Country!


Viansa Winery & Marketplace, located just off Highway 121, magically transports you to Tuscany, Italy. When you arrive, you are welcomed by a St. Francis of Assisi statue, petting his dog. Drive up the road and set your eyes on rows of grapevines, tall Cypress trees, elegant rose gardens and Italian fountains. Nestled at the top of the hill stands Viansas Tuscan Villa with breathtaking views of Sonoma Valley. Viansa is a rich mixture of traditions with its family history, Tuscan architecture, fine winemaking and culinary offerings. Sonomas Italian winemakers, the Sebastianis, created Viansa in order to share their love of good wine, good food and Italian heritage. Their commitment to Italian-inspired wines and foods is continued today going to great lengths to pair homemade Italian recipes with selected wines. As the premier producer of Cal-Ital wines, Viansa draws wine lovers from all over the world to explore a unique array of wine varietals. Two of Viansas award-winning wines are the 2011 Estate Chardonnay and 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, both receiving multiple medals in 2013. The winerys marketplace offers specialty foods, including sandwiches, salads, artisan cheeses and desserts. The marketplace also sells unique merchandise ranging from imported artwork and ceramics, to wine accessories, tapenades and dipping oils. Viansa wines are only available at the winery, through Viansas Tuscan Club or at www.viansa.com. Viansa also hosts special events, and reserve tastings. With Viansas choices of things to see, and do, your day at Viansa will be one to remember!
By Monica L. Dashwood

FUN FACTS Viansas Tuscan Villa is a replica of a monastery in Italy. There are over 500 species of birds sighted on the winerys 113 acre wetlands. Enjoy lunch on the patio wine perfectly paired with pizza made from Viansas very own wood-fired oven. Viansa also offers unique Italian inspired wine and food pairings by appointment. VARIETALS PRODUCED Viansa produces 18 popular and distinct varietals, like Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Barbera, Merlot and on as well as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Arneis, Vernaccia, Primitivo and Sangiovese. WINES TO TASTE ON YOUR VISIT 2011 Estate Chardonnay: Platinum, 6 Gold and 6 Silver Medals in 2013 baked apple, crisp citrus, butterscotch and toasty oak. 2010 Cabernet: Double Gold, Gold and 4 Silver Medals in 2013 black fruits, cedar and mocha.

Viansa Winery
Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

25200 Arnold Drive, Sonoma 1-800-995-4740 | www.viansa.com

Present this offer to your Viansa host and receive a 25% savings on wine purchases, 10% on food and gift, and preferred pricing on events! Limit 2 guests per visit.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Become a Wine Club Member for a day.

Los Carneros

67

The sun is shining on an endless sea of vineyards. Youre sipping a luscious glass of Sangiovese and dipping fresh bread in a bowl of rich, buttery olive oil. A scene from a villa in Tuscany? No, just another perfect afternoon at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards in Sonoma. The Jacuzzi family first emigrated from Italy in the early 1900s to work on the railroad. Eventually, the Jacuzzi brothers would venture into the aviation business, the spa business and to the delight of visitors to the Sonoma Valley, the wine business. The vineyards lie primarily in the Carneros wine region that stretches between Napa and Sonoma. Here, the winery sits on one hundred and ninety acres of lush, fertile land that boasts rolling green hills and the historic flatlands of the San Pablo Bay. Concentrating on Italian wines, Jacuzzi Family Vineyards produces Barbera, Montepulciano, Moscato Bianco, Dolcetto, Aleatico, Aglianico, Primitivo and historic, hard-to-find varietals such as Lagrein and Vernaccia. There is no need for a passport to be transported to the wine regions of Italy, just a short drive to Sonoma will provide all the charm, scenery and magnificent wines of the country without the time and expense of overseas travel. No visit to the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards is complete without a stop by The Olive Press Olive Oil Tasting Room and Gift Shop. Dedicated to anything and everything having to do with olives and olive oil, the shop offers samples of the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards award-winning olive oil that was inspired by the rich olive oils of Italy and Southern France.
By Ronda Giangreco

FUN TIP Enjoy wine and pizza in the piazza the last Sunday of every month. See website for details. WINE TOURS While the tasting room is open daily for complimentary tastings, wine tours are available only by appointment. Visit jacuzziwines.com/tastings to view options or call (707) 931-7576 and they will gladly help you arrange a guided tour, food and wine pairings and more. DONT MISS The glorious Neptune Fountain and picnic tables on the edge of the vineyards. Enjoy a vineyard stroll through the Tuscan Road.

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards


Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

24724 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 931-7575 www.jacuzziwines.com For tours & reservations, visit jacuzziwines.com/tastings Follow them on Facebook: facebook.com/jacuzziwines and Twitter: @JacuzziWines

68

Join the Wine Club and receive special offers and discounts on wines.
Los Carneros
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Wine tasting is never just about the wine. A picturesque winery, warm and welcoming hosts, and a bucolic setting in which to enjoy a picnic, all combine to produce the memories everyone hopes for when they set out to visit the wine country. No place delivers all three better than Cline Cellars on the southern edge of Sonoma. Fred Cline and his wife Nancy moved their winery from its original home in Oakley in order to enjoy the magnificent splendor of the Sonoma countryside, as well as to take advantage of the long and fruitful growing season that the Carneros region offers. Their tasting room, located in an 1850s farmhouse, is surrounded by lush green lawns, six spring-fed ponds and a glorious array of flowers, including more than 5,000 rose bushes. The scene is the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of wine tasting, a wedding or a special event. Their historic 350-acre estate is planted to Syrah, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, producing wines that have consistently garnered rave reviews. But it is Freds passion for the Rhone varietals that have made the winery famous. Syrah, Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne flourish on the estate and produce award-winning wines that have visitors coming back time and time again to this quintessential Sonoma winery.
By Ronda Giangreco

FUN FACT The vineyards were once the site of a Miwok village, as well as the site of the original Sonoma Mission before it was moved to downtown Sonoma. MUST SEE The California Missions Museum is a marvelous collection of scale models of all of the California missions. The models first debuted at the 1939 Worlds Fair at Treasure Island and are acclaimed as an extraordinary and accurate depiction of California history. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. WINERY TOURS/TASTING Tours are available at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. daily. Complimentary tasting is offered daily. Private tastings can be arranged by appointment. Visit clinecellars.com/tastings to plan your visit. SYRAH HILL EXPERIENCE Take a walking tour of the property, the historic mission building and gardens then get transported through the estate vineyards to the top of Syrah Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of Sonoma Valley and the San Pablo Bay and wetlands. Sip reserve wines paired with local, artisan cheeses and soak up some sunshine.11 a.m. and 2 p.m., reservations are required

Cline Cellars
Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Follow them at facebook.com/clinewine and on Twitter @clinecellars

24737 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 940-4030 | www.clinecellars.com

Join the Wine Club and receive special offers and discounts on wines.
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Los Carneros

69

Located within Cornerstone Sonoma at the gateway to Sonoma Valley, the newly redecorated Meadowcroft Wines tasting room is the perfect place to hold a wine picnic or enjoy a chocolate and wine pairing at one of our bars. With the addition of a shady outdoor lounge featuring comfortable seating around fire pits, we can accommodate groups, large or small. From sweet treats to robust Cabernets, our award-winning wines and Sonoma hospitality will leave your whole party smiling! There are three labels being poured in the tasting room: Meadowcroft Wines, Thomas Henry Wines and Foyt Family Wines (honoring Indy racing legend A.J. Foyt). Winemaker Tom Meadowcroft crafts all of his wines from his own estate and other sustainably farmed vineyards in Napa and Sonoma. Chef Darby has created the perfect pairing menu with four Belgian chocolates and four wines from our award-winning list. The newest pairing, a Passion Fruit truffle and refreshing off-dry Thomas Henry Riesling, is a must try. And old favorites like Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt alongside our All She Wrote dessert wine continue to delight. If you care to stretch your legs, tours of our Pinot Noir vineyard are available with advance reservations. The tour and six-wine tasting takes place a short walk from our tasting room. Youll learn about the lovely Carneros vineyard while enjoying a bright, charming Pinot Noir that comes from the very vines you are strolling through. So, whether you stop in to enjoy the wines in the tasting room, the lounges or even while viewing the architectural gardens, Meadowcroft Wines should be your first stop (or perhaps your last stop) in Wine Country. Meadowcroft Wines is Submitted: By Stephen O'Malley family and dog friendly.

VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Meritage, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sangiovese, Viognier, Zinfandel and a Port-style wine FUN FACT Tom's last name means "the fertile field on the meadow...a garden that has been carefully nurtured over time" UPCOMING EVENTS
(Call the tasting room for more details)

March 15th: St. Pattys day lunch with Irish songs April 12: Spring Fling, celebrate new releases! May 3: Wine and Tacos! June 14: Summer Kickoff Party June 28: Customer Appreciation Barbecue July 26: Customer Appreciation Barbecue August 23: Customer Apprication Barbecue September/October: Harvest Lunch on Mt. Veeder

Meadowcroft Wines
Open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

(707) 934-4090 www.meadowcroftwines.com

70

Mention Day Trips and receive a complimentary wine tasting for two.
Los Carneros
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

With so many wineries to visit in the beautiful wine country, its easy to miss the hidden gems. There is one off the beaten path that is worth finding: The Larson Family Winery, located at the intersection of Hwy 121 and Broadway, across from the Schellville Fire Station. Driving through, you will pass rows of Chardonnay vines taking in the warm California sun. Nearby, a redwood barn draws you in to experience Larsons down to earth, fun-loving, hard-working, dog-loving, country lifestyle. The Larson Family Winery has been in the family since 1899. As you walk into their rustic barnyard tasting room, over the wine bar, hangs a hand painted mural, chronicling the history of the family and the heritage of the property. This colorful painting takes you back to the days of the Wild West from steamboats, rodeos, racehorses and polo ponies to the current winery surrounded by lush green vineyards. With roots in the western region of the Carneros appellation, and 70 acres of vineyard to work with, the Larson Family Winery produces over 10 delicious varietals. Larsons award-winning wines are the Millerick Road meritage blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc. The Larson Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a complex and well-balanced wine revealing aromas of cedars, clove, vanilla, coffee and spice. The 3 Lab Cab is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Malbec. These magnificent wines and more are available only at the winery, on-line or through their wine club. Dont miss the best of the best! Bring the whole family for some fun in the sun. Pack a picnic, taste the finest wines in Sonoma Valley, play bocce ball, or take a beautiful walk with your dog along Sonoma Creek, you are in for a picture perfect day! By Monica L. Dashwood

OVERALL PHILOSOPHY Hurry down because, We drink what we can, and sell the rest! FUN FACTS The Larson Family Winery named their 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Three Lab Cab after their wonderful labs, Sunny, Bubby and Pete, the inspiration for this fullbodied wine. We are kid and dog friendly, so bring the whole family! The Larson Family Winery four-bedroom Civil War-era farm house is now available for over-night stays! VARIETALS PRODUCED Sparkling Brut, Sparkling Ros, Pinot Grigio, Gewrztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot

Larson Family Winery


Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.daily

Intersection of Hwy. 121 & Broadway, across from the Shellville Fire Station 23355 Millerick Road, Sonoma 1-800-938-WINE (9463) www.larsonfamilywinery.com www.facebook.com/larsonfamilywinery www.twitter.com/larsonfamilywinery

Mention Day Trips and receive 2-for-1 wine tasting.


www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Los Carneros

71

From the couple that brought HelloCello to the Sonoma scene, Amy and Fred Groths newly founded Prohibition Spirits is Sonomas first and only micro-distillery since prohibition. They hand-craft wine country inspired and influenced spirits like Sugar Daddy Rum, Solano Vodka, Hookers House Bourbon, Hookers House Rye, Cohabitation and White Corn Whiskey. Tour their boutique micro-distillery and learn about the mysterious and creative aspects of fermenting, distilling and ageing fine spirits. A personal tour with the distiller provides insight and understanding of the distilling process and what goes into every dram of hand-crafted spirit. On most days you will see a brandy, grappa or eau di vie flowing from their custom made artisanal still or observe their hands-on production operation. Discover a new side of Wine Country and taste highly acclaimed, small-batch, artisanal spirits right at the source. Their tasting bar and Indigenous Spirits Lab is an intimate location to explore the aromas, flavors, textures and feelings of their craft spirits. Whether you are a novice or aficionado, they will guide you through an insightful tasting to help you better appreciate and understand artisanal spirits. The daily selection of hand-crafted spirits changes based on the distilling schedule and some of the spirits are seasonal or small-batches that can only be experienced and sold at the distillery. For the ideal experience, reservations are recommended. By Alexandra Charsley

FUN FACTS The names for each of their hand-crafted spirits pay tribute to Sonomas illustrious past. Hookers House Whiskeyshonor the infamous General Joseph Hooker, a Civil War Veteran, Sonoma resident, ladys man and whiskey aficionado. Sugar Daddy Rumshonors the originalSugar Daddy,Adolf Spreckels, a sugar baron, industrial tycoon, Sonoma resident and the original Sugar Daddy. Solano Vodkais hand-crafted in the Sonoma Valley tradition as a tribute to Mission Solano. SPIRITS Bourbon, Rum, Whiskey, Limoncello, Vodka, Liqueurs & Grappa

Prohibition Spirits
21877 8thStreet East, Sonoma CA 95476 (707) 721-6390 prohibition-spirits.com Email: info@hellosonoma.com

72 Los Carneros

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

The Carneros Brewing Company is ideally located in the heart of Wine Countrys Carneros region. Rows of hops mark the entrance to their brewery and Tap Room so you wont miss them as youre driving in! The Tap Room is a great place to start and is the social center of the establishment. Guests can embark on a self-guided tour which starts outside at their hop trellises. If the tour is not your style, head straight to the Tap Room Bar and order a beer flight or a pint. Their entire staff is passionate about beer, the beer making process and can highlight the different aromas and flavors found in each of their beers. The Carneros Brewing Company is a family owned microbrewery founded by five Ceja brothers and their families, all contributing their diverse talents to establish this world class microbrewery in the heart of Sonoma Valley. Jesus Ceja is one of the founders and the Brewmaster. Hes a true brewing artisan, hand-crafting high-quality cervezas and putting all of his passion, love and experience on every small-batch of beer he brews. The Beer Garden is an outdoor oasis where visitors can relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings while enjoying their small-batch craft brews. The entire family is welcome here and they are also dog friendly. There is plenty of room to wander the paths and find a place to settle and enjoy your day. Weekends are really hopping with the addition of local food trucks and they have various spaces available for special events. All of these activities and opportunities are what make Carneros Brewing Company the ultimate Tap Room to visit. By Alexandra Charsley

FUN FACTS For the connoisseur, the hop trellises are also a part of their beer garden and are home to the foundation of their craft brews. They take pride in the fact that they organically grow 30% of the hops used in their small-batch recipes. BEERS: Jefe-weizen, Morena Ale, Cerveza Pilsner, Carneros IPA, Negra IPA

Carneros Brewing Company


22985 Burndale Road Sonoma, CA 95476 (707) 938-1880 carnerosbrews.com Jesus@carnerosbrews.com

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Los Carneros

73

fine dining
SEBASTOPOL GTOs Seafood House 234 South Main Street, Sebastopol; 707 824-9922 Hopmonk Tavern 230 Petaluma Avenue, Sebastopol; 707 829-7300 Zazu Restaurant & Farm 6770 McKinley St, Sebastopol; 707 523-4814 Seafood Traditional American Traditional American

fas t bru nch lun ch din ner win e/b eer full bar ou t doo r se atin ent g er t ain me nt org ani c/lo cal pe t goo frie ds ndl y cas ual

bre ak

SONOMA VALLEY Caf Citti 9049 Highway 12, Kenwood; 704 833-2690 Cafe La Haye 140 E Napa Street, Sonoma; 707-935-5994 Centre Du Vin 480 First Street East, Sonoma; 707 996-9779 Della Santinas Trattoria 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma; 707 935-0576 El Dorado Kitchen 405 1st Street West, Sonoma; 707 996-3220 Fig Cafe & Wine Bar 13690 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 938-2130 Girl & The Fig 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma; 707 938-3634 Glen Ellen Inn Oyster Grill & Martini Bar & Secret Cottages 13670 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 996-6409 Glen Ellen Star 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 343-1384 Hopmonk Sonoma 691 Broadway, Sonoma; 707 935-9100 Kenwood Restaurant 9900 Hwy 12, Kenwood; 707 833-6326 Italian Contemporary American French Italian

Contemporary American Contemporary American French Contemporary American Traditional American Traditional American Contemporary American/French Portuguese Mexican Steakhouse and Seafood French Italian

LaSalette Restaurant 452 First St East, Ste H, Sonoma; 707 938-1927 Maya Restaurant 101 East Napa Street, Sonoma; 707 935-3500 Saddles Steakhouse 29 East MacArthur St, Sonoma; 707 938-3191 Sante 100 Boyes Boulevard, Boyes Hot Springs; 707 938-9000 Swiss Hotel Bar & Restaurant 18 West Spain St, Sonoma; 707 938-2884 Taste of the Himalayas 464 First St East, Sonoma; 707 996-1161 Yeti Restaurant 14301 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 996-9930

Himalayan and Nepali Indian and Nepali

PETALUMA Central Market 42 Petaluma Blvd North, Petaluma; 707 778-9900 Cucina Paradiso 114 Petaluma Blvd. N, Petaluma; 707 782-1130 Seared 170 Petaluma Blvd, Petaluma; 707 762-5997 Contemporary American Italian Steak & Seafood Italian European Bistro

74

Risibisi Restaurant & Wine Bar 154 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma; 707 766-7600 Wild Goat Bistro 6 Petaluma Blvd N #A5, Petaluma; 707 658-1156

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

res e

u ps cal e

r va tion s

fine dining
GEYSERVILLE Catellis 21047 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville; 707 857-3471 Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria 21021 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville; 707 814-0111 Italian Francis Ford Coppolas Rustic 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville; 707 857-1462 Italian Hoffman House 21712 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville; 707 857-3624 Homemade American

bre ak

Contemporary American and Italian

HEALDSBURG Cafe Lucia 235 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 431-1113 Portuguese

Bear Republic Brewing Co. 345 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 433-2337 Traditional American Bistro Ralph 109 Plaza Street, Healdsburg; 707 433-1380 Campo Fina 330 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 395-4640 Contemporary American and French Italian

Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen 317 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 431-0330 Contemporary American Charcuturie 335 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 431-7213 Healdsburg Bar & Grill 245 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 433-3333 Madrona Manor 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg; 707 433-1542 Ravenous 420 Center Street, Healdsburg; 707 431-1302 Spoonbar 219 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 433-7222 Willis Seafood & Raw Bar 403 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 433-9191 French Grill

Contemporary American Californina Mediterranean Seafood

Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar 344 Center St, Healdsburg; 707 473-0946 Contemporary American

GUERNEVILLE/FORESTVILLE Applewood Inn 13555 Hwy 116, Guerneville; 707 869-9093 Farmhouse 7871 River Road, Forestville; 707 887-3300 Contemporary American

SANTA ROSA Caffe Portofino 535 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa; 707 578-3096 Equus Restaurant 101 Fountrain Grove Parkway, Santa Rosa; 707 578-0149 Jack and Tonys 115 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa; 707 526-4347 Contemporary American Californian French Italian

John Ash & Co. Restaurant 4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa; 707 527-7687 La Gare 208 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa; 707 528-4355

WINDSOR Ume 8710 Old Redwood Highway, Windsor; 707 838-6700 Japanese

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

fas t bru nch lun ch din ner win e/b eer full bar ou t doo r se atin ent g er t ain me nt org ani c/lo cal pe t goo frie ds ndl y cas ual u ps cal e res er v atio ns

75

nnay

tramine

Pinot G ri Pinot G s/ rigio Riesling

lanc

on Blan Sauvign

c Pinot B Viognie r

Find Your Favorite Varietals


Ancient Oak Cellars Santa Rosa, Mon-Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm, 707-536-1546 Armida Winery Healdsburg , daily 11am-5pm, 707-433-2222 Atascadero Creek Winery Forestville, Thu-Mon 12-5pm, 707-824-8204 Balletto Vineyards Santa Rosa, daily 10am-5pm, 707-568-2455 Chateau Ador Santa Rosa, Fri-Sun 12-5pm or by appointment, 707-528-6750 Chateau St. Jean Kenwood, daily 10am-5pm, 1-800-543-7572 Christopher Creek Winery Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-433-2001 Cline Cellars Sonoma, daily 10am-6pm, 707-940-4030 DArgenzio Winery Santa Rosa; Sun-Wed 11-5, Thu 11-9, Fri-Sat 11-7; 707-546-2466
P45 P31 P38 P38 P47 P56 P32 P69 P46

Chardo

Gewurz

      

      

        

DeLoach Vineyards Santa Rosa, daily 10am-5pm, 707-526-9111


Deux Amis (Tasting Room on the Green) Windsor, Thu-Mon 11am-6pm, 707-687-5089 Dutcher Crossing Winery Healdsburg, daily 11am-5pm, 707-431-2700 Dutton Estate Sebastopol, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-829-9463 Eric Ross Winery Glen Ellen, daily 11am-5pm, 707-939-8525 Ferrari-Carano Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-433-6700 Forchini Vineyards & Winery Healdsburg, Fri-Sun 11am-4:30pm, 707-431-8886 Graton Ridge Cellars Sebastopol, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-823-3040 Hanna Winery Santa Rosa, daily 10am-4pm, 707-575-3371 Hook & Ladder Sebastopol, Wed-Mon 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-3pm, 707-634-6249 Jacuzzi Family Vineyards Sonoma, daily 11am-5:30pm, 707-931-7575 Kenwood Vineyards Kenwood, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-833-5891 Korbel Champagne Cellars Guerneville, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-824-7000 Kunde Family Estate Kenwood, daily 10:30am-5pm, 707-282-1537 Larson Family Sonoma, daily 10am-5pm, 1-800-938-WINE Laurel Glen Vineyard Glen Ellen, by appointment only, 707-933-9877 Ledson Winery & Vineyards Kenwood, daily 10am-5pm, 707-537-3810 Loxton Cellars Glen Ellen, daily 11am-5pm, 707-935-7221 MacLeod Family Vineyard Kenwood, by appointment only, 707-833-4312 Martin Ray Winery Santa Rosa, daily 11am-5pm, 707-823-2404 Matanzas Creek Winery Santa Rosa, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-528-6464 Meadowcroft Wines Sonoma, daily 11am-6pm, 707-934-4090 Moondance Cellars Glen Ellen, Thu-Mon 11am-5pm, 707-823-0880 Mutt Lynch (Tasting Room on the Green) Windsor, Thu-Mon 11am-6pm, 707-687-5089 Occidental Road Cellars Sebastopol, Fri-Mon 11am-5pm, 707-827-3327 Old World Winery Fulton, Thu-Mon 11am-5pm, 707-490-6696 Paradise Ridge Kenwood, 707-282-9020; Santa Rosa, 707-528-9463 Rodney Strong Vineyards Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-431-1533 Russian River Vineyards Forestville, daily 11am-5pm, 707-887-3344 Simi Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 1-800-746-4880 Sonoma-Cutrer Windsor, Thu-Mon 10am-4pm, 707-237-3489 Taft Street Winery Sebastopol, daily 11am-4pm, Sat/Sun til 4:30, 707-823-2049 Topel Winery Healdsburg, daily 11am-7pm, 707-433-4116 Truett Hurst Winery Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-433-9545 VJB Vineyards & Cellars Kenwood, daily 10am-5pm, 707-833-2300

P42
P34 P23 P38 P62 P22 P25 P38 P38 P39 P68 P53 P36 P52 P71 P61 P58 P65 P57 P37/39 P60 P70 P63 P34 P39 P41 P55 P33 P39 P29 P40 P39 P28 P24 P54


                             




                              

 

 

76

Valley of the Moon Winery Glen Ellen, 10am-5pm, Fri til 6pm, 707-939-4510

P 64
P67 P39





  

Viansa Winery Sonoma, daily 10am-5pm, 707-935-4700 Wine Guerrilla Forestville, daily 11am-5pm, 707-887-1996

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Other

et Fran c

vignon

Petite S irah

Petit Ve rd

Sangiov ese

Tempra Primotinillo/ vo

ne

el

Barbera

C ab S au

Grenach

Pinot N o

Carigna

Zinfand

ng

Cabern

Malbec

Merlot

Syrah

Other

Sparkli

Ros

            

 


   

         

     

                

         


  

           

                     

Port

   

          

 

   

 

   

   

  

              

   

         

    

    

                 

     

     

      

  

        


 


 














 







www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

77


Dessert

Wines

ot

ir

Rockpile

Pendeleton Estate

ER IVER R RIV IAN SSIAN S S RU RU

UTCHER CR D DUTCHER C R EEK EEK

Rockpile Lake Sonoma Lake Sonoma

101

TO THE MENDOCINO COAST TO THE MENDOCINO COAST

101

TOPEL WINERY
Banshee Wines Blanchard Family Wines TOPEL WINERY

Dry Creek Dry Creek

RD. DRY CREEK DRY CREEK

Alexander Valley Alexander Valley

RD.

TO THE MENDOCINO COAST TO THE MENDOCINO COAST


EK RD. EK RDE R. RE Y C RY C D DR K K EE EE CR CR Y Y W. DR W. DR

128 128

1 1

Flowers Vineyard Flowers & Winery Vineyard & Winery

Northern Northern Sonoma Sonoma


Vineyards Starlite Vineyards

Cazadero Cazadero
W

Knights Knights Valley Valley Starlite


.
PETPET RIFIR IFIED ED FOR FOR ES ES T T
.

W ES ES TS TS I DE I DE RD. RD.

Russian Russian River River Chalk Chalk Hill Hill

EW LVIEW HIL HILLVI

SIGOS IGO AM LOS LOS AM

YHWY D D HW DWOO DWOO OLD RE OLD RE

116 116
CH CH AL AL K HIK HILL LL

EA EA ST STS SID ID E E

WINDSOR WINDSOR RD RD

C. Donatiello Banshee Wines Cartograph WinesWines Blanchard Family Chateau Felice C. Donatiello Downtown Cartograph Wine Wines Edmeades Chateau Felice Ferrari-Carano Downtown Wine s Edmeades Seasons of the Vineyard Ferrari-Caranos Front Street Wineries: Seasons of Cellars the Vineyard Camellia Front Street Wineries: Davis Family Camellia Cellars Sapphire Hill Davis Family Holdredge Sapphire Hill Skewis Wines Holdredge Hauck Cellars Skewis Wines Hawley Tasting Room & Gallery Hauck Cellars Hudson Street Wineries Hawley Tasting Room & Gallery Bluenose Wines Hudson Street Wineries Grove Street Bluenose Wines Owl Ridge Grove Street Sadler-Wells Owl Ridge Rocking Z Vineyard Sadler-Wells Teira Rocking Z Vineyard J Keverson Teira Kendall-Jackson J Keverson La Crema Kendall-Jackson Longboard La Crema Vineyards Longboard Vineyards

Malm Cellars (BY APPT. ONLY) Manzanita Creek Mueller Winery Malm Cellars (BY APPT. ONLY) Murphy-Goode Manzanita Creek Optima Mueller Winery Partake by K-J Murphy-Goode Pezzi King Optima Portalupi Partake by K-J Pezzi King Ramey Wine Cellars Portalupi Winery Roadhouse Ramey WineCellars Cellars Rosenblum Roadhouse Winery Russian River Wine Co. Rosenblum Cellars Sanglier Cellars Russian River Wine Co. Seghesio Sanglier Cellars Selby Seghesio Stark at Garagiste Healdsburg Selby Stephen & Walker Stark at Garagiste Healdsburg StoneStreet Stephen & Walker Thirty Four North Wine Merchant StoneStreet Thumbprint Thirty Four North Wine Merchant Toad Hollow Thumbprint Valdez Toad Hollow Waterfront Valdez Tasting Room J. Keverson Waterfront Tasting Room Christie J. Keverson Hart s Desire Christie Williamson Harts Desire Windsor Vineyards Williamson Windsor Vineyards

HWY HWY OOD OOD REDW REDW OLD OLD

1 1
LAG LA GU U NA NA RD RD . .
OL OL IVE IVE T T SLUSLU SSESSE R R

Valdez Family Icaria Creek Wattle Creek Fritz Winery Pastori Valdez Family Pendeleton Estate Icaria Creek Wattle Creek Fritz Winery Pastori Silver Oak Vinwood Cellars Sbragia Family Silver FERRARI-CARANO Oak Vinwood Cellars Sbragia Family DUTCHER CROSSING Frick David Caffaro J Rickards Gustafson FERRARI-CARANO Family Bella Vineyards Yoakim Pedroncelli Preston Vineyards Vineyards DUTCHER CROSSING Bridge STEWARTS POINT Frick Geyser Peak RD Zichichi David Caffaro Talty CANYON RD Chateau Diana Palmeri J. Rickards Gustafson Family Bella Vineyards Route 128 Winery FORCHINI Yoakim Preston Vineyards TRUETT HURST Pedroncelli Vineyards Locals Bridge STEWARTS POINT Amphora RD Geyser Peak Meeker Raymond Burr Vineyards Zichichi Talty CANYO NR Family Wineries D. Gpfrich Chateau Diana Palmeri Mercury Kokomo Route 128 Winery Terroirs FORCHINI Pech Merle Papapietro Perry TRUETT HURST Locals Amphora Trione Martorana Kachina Peterson Raymond Burr Vineyards Meeker Family Wineries Clos Trattore Estate Michel-Schlumberger Mercury Gpfrich Kokomo Du Bois Del Carlo Quivira Francis Terroirs Unti Pech Merle Papapietro Perry Mounts Martorana deLorimier Winery Rued Trione Passalacqua Peterson Ford Trattore Estate Coppola Clos Michel-Schlumberger A Rafanelli KachinaTeldeschi Du Bois Del Carlo Quivira Unti Francis Trentadue Dry Creek Vnyd Mounts deLorimier Winery Rued Ford Passalacqua Lambert Bridge Mauritson Coppola Teldeschi A Rafanelli Pasterick Vineyards Dry Creek Vnyd Trentadue Garden Creek Ranch Robert Young LambertSimoncini Bridge S T O T N SPG Ridge LY Mauritson Munselle Draxton Amista AL Pasterick Vineyards EX Stryker Deux Amis Sonoma AN Nalle Mazzocco Robert Young Simoncini Garden Creek Ranch Hawkes D S T O T E G Ridge N SP LY R SIMI Jordan Munselle VALLEY Draxton Amista AL Duchamp Mazzocco EXA Stryker Deux Amis Sonoma Nalle Medlock Stonestreet Stuhlmuller ND Wilson Hawkes ER Ames SIMI Jordan VALLEY Montemaggiore Duchamp White Oak Stuhlmuller Medlock Stonestreet Wilson Ames Montemaggiore Soda Rock Everett Ridge White Oak Alexander Valley UPTick Soda Everett Ridge Vineyards Johnson s Rock DaVero UPTick Hanna Valley Field Stone Alexander CHRISTOPHER Johnsons Vineyards DaVero CREEK Lancaster MacPhail Hanna Stone Estate Christie LimerickField CHRISTOPHER Foppiano Mill Creek Vineyards LIMERICK De La Estate Acorn CREEK MacPhail Mietz Christie Lane Lancaster Vrit/ Limerick Mill Creek Vineyards Montanya Foppiano ARMIDA Mutt Lynch LIMERICK Archipel Lane De La Mietz Vrit/ Twomey Acorn RODNEY STRONG ARMIDA Montanya Mutt Lynch Archipel Matrix J Wine RODNEY STRONG Twomey Windsor Oaks John Tyler Wines Merriam by Bacigalupi Vineyard Matrix J Wine Windsor Oaks John Tyler Wines Notables Merriam VML Hop ARATA by Bacigalupi Vineyard KORBEL Kiln Notables Bradford Mtn Hop VML Chalk Hill ARATA KORBEL Rochioli Arista Kiln Bradford Mtn Gary Farrell Williams Selyem Vine Tastings Chalk Hill TASTING ROOM ON THE GREEN Rochioli Arista Gracianna WINDSOR RIVE R RD Porter Selyem Gary Farrell Williams Vine Tastings ROOM ON THE GREEN Albini Family Gracianna WINDSOR RIVERTASTING Thomas Creek RD Moshin Porter George PL Family Albini Thomas Creek EA Moshin SA Copain George NT PL EA Porter Bass Winery SA Copain NT Porter Bass Winery Mueller La Czar Mueller ATASCADERO CREEK La Czar SONOMA-CUTRER Hartford Family ATASCADERO CREEK WINE GUERRILLA SONOMA-CUTRER Hartford Family RI Kendall-Jackson Emtu Estate RIVER R Russian Hill Estate WINE GUERRILLA RUSSIAN RIVER VNYDS Kendall-Jackson Wine Center . Emtu Estate VER RD Russian Hill Estate Iron Horse RUSSIAN RIVER VNYDS Woodenhead D. Wine Center River Road Iron Horse Woodenhead OLD WORLD WINERY Joseph Swan Tara Bella River Road Cahill Winery WINERYS R Joseph Swan Tara Bella Martinelli OLD WORLD Pellegrini MARK W Cahill Winery MARTIN DUTTON ESTATE Martinelli G R Pellegrini Harvest Moon MARK WEST EST SPRINGS MARTIN DUTTON SebastopolESTATE Vnyd Harvest Moon RAY SPRIN Robert Rue Sebastopol Vnyd RAY Benovia Robert Rue GRATON Benovia Eric Kent Carol Shelton Sunc GRATON RIDGE RIDGE Dehlinger Dehlinger Shelton Eric Kent Sunc Inman CHATEAU Hook & Ladder Marimar Torres TON RD. Vinoteca InmanPCarol Dutton-Goldfield CHATEAU ADORE ADORE Marimar Torres GRA Vinoteca GRATON RD. Dutton-Goldfield Hook & Ladder IND Inspiration PIN TR INE ER Red Inspiration INDUS USTRIAL RColagrossi DELOACHGU Battaglini IAL Red Car Car Lynmar Lynmar DELOACH GUER Battaglini ColagrossiNovy ERNE Merry NovySiduri Siduri NEVIL Merry Edwards Edwards VILL Paradise Paradise Ridge Ridge LE E
D. D.

FF U U LT LT OO NN RR D. D.

Y Y R R E E M M O O G G TT N N OO M M

Small Small Vines Vines

W HA W H AY G GI Y NIH IAH IA MN M E EH HO BOB

Green Green Valley Valley

St. Helena Road St. Helena Road Winery Winery Kings Hill Cellars Kings Hill Cellars Fisher Vineyards Fisher Vineyards

TAFT STREET Freeman Freeman

RD. L RD. CIDENTAL OC OCCIDENTA

TAFT STREET

D&L D&L Carinalli Carinalli

FOUNT TA AI IN NG DARGENZIO F GRO

OUN

M NTE MO ON TECI CITO TO

29
ROV VE E Sheldon/Krutz Sheldon/Krutz RAILROAD RAILROAD ANCIENT OAK SQUARE Lost Canyon 4th CELLARS Trecini Station 1870 Cellars of Sonoma

GO G OL LD D

BODEGA HIG Joseph Phelps HWA Y

Littorai Wines

RID GE

HANNA OC CID CC IDEN BALLETTO O ENTA TAL LR RD . D. THE BARLOW HOOK & LADDER La Follette MacPhail Family 12 Estate OCCIDENTAL Claypool Marimar Wind Gap ROAD CELLARS

CALI CA LIST ST O O GAR GA R D. D.

Gourmet au Bay

Joseph Phelps

128

VA L

LE Y

FO RD

12
LEDSON
RD. N HIA PYT

CU TO F

116 101
M ACLEOD BY APPT ONLY
St. Francis
LE NDA LAW
GRA NGE

Sonoma Valley
Landmark Kaz St. Annes Crossing NakedWines.com
Sable Ridge

Sonoma Coast
ILL RO AD

MATANZAS CREEK

PARADISE RIDGE
Ty Caton Cellars Enkidu En Garde B Wise

128

CHATEAU ST. JEAN KENWOOD VINEYARDS

Pavo Wines
BE NN ET T VA L LE YR D.

PE TA LU MA H

Mayo Reserve Room Muscardini Deerfield Ranch

VJB CELLARS KUNDE

TO LAKE BERRYESSA AND SACRAMENTO

LOXTON

Coturri Winery
RO B LA R RD .

Wellington Lasseter Family Mayo Family Korbin Kameron

PETALUMA V AL LE

Benziger Family Pangloss

Y
R FO

LAUREL GLEN Imagery ERIC ROSS MOONDANCE CELLARS B.R. Arrowood Cohn
RD .

Bucklin Old Hill Ranch

Little Vineyards

VALLEY OF THE MOON WINERY


BOD EGA
HWY

SONOMA PLAZA LEDSON CENTRE DU VIN


Petroni Vineyards Akoma Zoume/Mountain Terraces Hanzell

Robert Hunter Paint Horse


WASHINGT ON

12

Clary Ranch Sonoma Valley Port Works Corda


FRAT ES
ST AG E GU LC H

ORANGE RD.

Clarbec Adobe Road Winery

Ravenswood Bump Petroni R2 Wine Co Sebastiani


EN NA PA AP A

Bartholomew Park
LO VA LL

Buena Vista
E. 7T H
ST

Tomales Bay
116 116
Keller Estate
BONNESS RD

Parmelee Hill Robledo Family Anaba Schug Bonneau

VA LL
RD

EY

Adobe Road Auteur (by appt) Bryter Estates Charles Creek Envolve Erick K James Vineyards GlenLyon Hawkes Haywood Highway 12 Winery MacLaren Petroni Vineyards Roche Sigh Champagne & Sparkling Sojourn Sonoma Enoteca Spann Two Amigos Walt Westwood

101

VIL KE LA R LE D.

Kastania Vineyards

CLINE

1 37
TO SAN FRANCISCO

Travelling around Sonoma County

RA MA L

Rams Gate

PROHIBITIONGofessel Los Carneros MEADOWCROFT WINES SPIRITS Region Scribe Foyt Family Wines CARNEROS Keating Wines 121 Tricycle Wine Partners BREWING Nicholson COMPANYHomewood Ranch Winery JACUZZI VIANSA
BU R ND AL E

Gloria Ferrer

LARSON FAMILY

12 121

MacRostie Patz & Hall Tin Barn

8T H

E.

Favero Gundlach Bundschu

CORNERSTONE SONOMA

TO NAP A

TRAVEL TIME MILES Average) (Peak)

Golden Gate Bridge to Sebastopol Sebastopol to Santa Rosa Downtown Santa Rosa to Healdsburg Healdsburg to Geyserville

49 7 16 8

60 12 20 15

80 20 30 15

TO SAN FRANCISCO

San Pablo Bay

TO VAL LEJ O

You might also like