vineyard tours sonoma

• Destinations
• Winery Directory

35 Best Sonoma Wineries & Wine Tasting Tours for 2024

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

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

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

Top Sonoma Wineries to Visit this Year

Arrowood vineyards & winery.

14347 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen

800-938-5170

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

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

Hanzell Vineyards

18596 Lomita Ave, Sonoma

707-996-3860

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

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

Patz & Hall

21200 8 th St E, Sonoma

707-265-7700

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

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

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

Bedrock Wine Co.

414 1 st St E, Sonoma

707-343-1478

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

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

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

Amapola Creek Vineyards & Winery

392 London Way, Sonoma

707-938-3783

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

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

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

2000 Denmark St, Sonoma

707-938-5277

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

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

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

3339 Hartman Rd, Santa Rosa

707-921-1040

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

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

Merry Edwards Winery

2959 Gravenstein Hwy N, Sebastopol

888-388-9050

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

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

Dutton-Goldfield Winery

3100 Gravenstein Hwy N, Sebastopol

707-823-3887

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

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

Martinelli Vineyards & Winery

3360 River Rd, Windsor

707-525-0570

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

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

Ridge – Lytton Springs

650 Lytton Springs Rd, Healdsburg

707-433-7721

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

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

Arnot-Roberts

33 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg

707-433-2400

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

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

5610 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-431-4404

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

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

Dry Creek Vineyard

3770 Lambert Bridge Rd, Healdsburg

707-433-1000

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

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

Mauritson Wines

2859 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-431-0804

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

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

RELATED: The Best Things to Do around Healdsburg in Sonoma

Unti Vineyards

4202 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-433-5590

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

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

4900 W Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-431-833

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

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

Nalle Winery

2383 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg

707-433-1040

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

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

Chalk Hill Estate Winery

10300 Chalk Hill Rd, Healdsburg

707-657-1809

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

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

Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery

15725 Meyers Grade Rd, Jenner

707-847-3460

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

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

Sonoma Wine Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sonoma Restaurants To Try

John ash & co..

4330 Barnes Rd, Santa Rosa

707-527-7687

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

HopMonk Tavern

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

El Dorado Kitchen & Cantina

405 1 st St W, Sonoma

707-996-3030

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

The Swiss Hotel

18 W Spain St, Sonoma

707-938-2884

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

the girl + the fig

110 W Spain St, Sonoma

707-938-3634

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

Fern Bar in The Barlow

6780 Depot St, Sebastopol

707-861-9603

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

Gravenstein Grill

8050 Bodega Ave, Sebastopol

707-634-6142

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

Underwood Bar and Bistro

9113 Graton Rd, Graton

707-823-7023

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

Drake’s Sonoma Coast Cuisine

103 Coast (Highway 1), Bodega Bay

707-917-0567

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

304 Center St, Healdsburg

707-473-8440

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

Excellent Sonoma Hotels

Vintners resort.

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

El Dorado Hotel

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

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

100 Boyes Blvd, Sonoma

707-938-9000

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

MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa

29 E MacArthur St, Sonoma

707-938-2929

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

The Lodge at Bodega Bay

103 Highway 1, Bodega Bay

707-875-3525

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

Getting There

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Sonoma Wineries

How many wineries to visit for one day in sonoma.

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

Is Napa Valley or Sonoma better?

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

Is Sonoma more affordable than Napa?

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

What is the average wine tasting fee in Sonoma?

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

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

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

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

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

You are reading “Best Sonoma Wineries and Wine Tours This Year” Back To Top

wineries near me, Sonoma wineries list, wineries in Sonoma with food, wine tasting, wine tours, vineyards and hotel options in Sonoma: trending destinations in California

If you enjoyed this guide, make sure you register to become a Winetraveler for free! You’ll get access to all of our content and receive useful guides and inspiration for travel around the world. Be sure to follow along with us on Twitter and Instagram as we continue to feature more exciting destinations.

Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!

Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new travel guides and itineraries are published. It's free!

Email Address

Sign Me Up!

Login to view more Articles

Leave a comment, ask a question or share a review cancel reply, you might also like, best mornington peninsula wineries & wine tours for 2024, ultimate guide to visiting châteauneuf-du-pape’s best wineries in 2024, 16 best wineries to visit near rome in 2024, 15 best mclaren vale wineries & wine tours to try 2024, how to drive sonoma’s bohemian highway in ca this year, 10 top us national parks to visit during the winter, 15 best luxury wine hotels & vineyard resorts around the world, wineries nearby, tunnel creek vineyards, j.r. dill winery, atwater vineyards, daou vineyards & winery, cheers to free membership.

Explore new paths. Travel expertise from locals and wine industry experts.

Get free access to all the goods:

• Exclusive articles
• In-depth itineraries
• …and more

• NAPA: (707) 257-0887
• SONOMA: (707) 938-8001

GET A QUICK ESTIMATE

Beau Wine Tours & Limousine Service 21707 8th Street East, Suite A Sonoma, California 95476 Phone: (707) 938-8001

Sonoma Wine Tours

Sonoma County serves high quality wine with hospitality. And our Sonoma Wine Tours show you a whole world of possibilities. For example, we will drive you along the Pacific coastline and through redwood forests. With almost perfect weather and diverse lands, Sonoma County creates legendary wines.

From its natural beauty to its comfortable setting, the location is a hot spot for wine tasting enthusiasts around the world. In fact, more than 370 wineries call the county “home.” TripAdvisor even named Sonoma County the best U.S. wine tours destination in October 2012.

What’s Included With Your Sonoma Wine Tour

Besides a private tour through Sonoma County’s American Viticulture Areas (AVAs), you’ll get a crash course on fine wines.

• Pinots: Between the Russian River and Sonoma Coast, you’ll find drinks ranging from fruity and light to bold and complex. Taste the earthy layers and smell smoked meats.
• Cabernet Sauvignon: Within the Alexander Valley, we’ll stop at places that serve the best red wines.
• Zinfandel: Then, Dry Creek will give you Zinfandels you won’t be able to get out of your head after tasting.

With wines as diverse as the landscape, you’ll find a drink to match your tastes in Sonoma County.

But, variety doesn’t end with wine.

On our Sonoma wine tours, you will pass livestock grazing upon landscape and chickens scratching in the pastures. Then, you’ll notice fruits, vegetables, and herbs painting the countryside. Next, we’ll visit local farms that sell everything from artisan cheeses to fresh pumpkins and berries. We can even set up a farm tour to see how local food goes from the garden to your plate. A strong supporter of sustainable agriculture, Sonoma County has an eat-fresh philosophy.

Your Private Sonoma Wine Tours Options

Are you ready to experience Sonoma County for yourself? Beyond our tours complete with dedicated transportation, many of the wineries we visit offer behind-the-scenes tours of their facilities. With exclusive wine tastings and unique sightseeing, you won’t want to skip a chance to explore the culture Sonoma has to offer. Each of our tours are designed to give you the ultimate tasting of Sonoma wines. And if you want to design your own wine tour, be our guest! We can help you set up a custom wine itinerary. Call us today and we’ll help you build your dream wine tour of the Sonoma area.

Or, choose from the following pre-planned tours: 

• Sonoma Valley Wine Tours
• Russian River Wine Tours
• Dry Creek Valley Wine Tours
• Alexander Valley Wine Tours

At the end of your private wine tasting trip, share a meal at one of Sonoma County’s best restaurants. Chefs create specialized menus using local produce and organic vegetables, cheeses, and olive oils. However, wine pairings are their specialty.

Tom’s Favorite Sonoma Wine Tours…

Our founder, Tom Buck, is a wine buff if you have ever met one. That’s why we take his recommendations pretty seriously here at Beau Wine Tours. Among his go-to wine tasting spots in Sonoma County include:

• Benzinger: As the  Best Winery Tour of 2017  according to Wine Enthusiast, the winery provides a new type of wine tour. On their Biodynamic Wine Tours, a tractor pulls a tram around the property. From showcasing their Biodynamic techniques to diving into their wine cave, Benzinger is an experience you can talk about forever.
• Imagery Estate Winery: At this winery, you’ll come for the promise of rare grape varieties. But, you’ll stay for the 500+ pieces of local art that hang on the walls.
• Jordan Vineyard & Winery: With an estate of roughly 1,200 acres, this winery helped to define what a premium Cabernet Sauvignon should taste like. For a walk around preserved natural habitats for oaks, ducks, rabbits, turkeys, Jordan Vineyard & Winery is the place to visit.

BEAU WINE TOURS – SONOMA

Additional links.

DOT 2613841 • TCP 14726 A • Sitemap

Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley uses cookies to give you the best possible service. If you continue browsing, you agree to our use of cookies.

• [email protected]
• Open Facebook account in a new tab.
• Open Instagram account in a new tab.
• Open Youtube account in a new tab.
• Open Yelp account in a new tab.
• Open Tripadvisor account in a new tab.

Our Sonoma Valley Wine Tours

What to expect from our tours.

When creating our Sonoma Wine Valley Tours, we kept a few things in mind. We want our guests to enjoy a comfortable ride with friendly expert guides , taste the area’s premium wines, sit down to a delicious lunch from a local restaurant, and learn about the wineries and the region’s history.

Stories From a Local Historian

Aboard the trolley, you’ll hear narration from your tour guide as we cruise through the historic Sonoma Plaza. Local historian and actor George Webber provided much of the material and stories that we share on this tour. We hope you enjoy the upbeat and whimsical style as we travel through California’s early history. Along the way, we’ll show you many historic landmarks, including the Sonoma and Swiss Hotels; General Vallejo’s soldier barracks, home, and state park; Mission San Francisco Solano (Sonoma Mission); the Blue Wing Inn; the Bear Flag Monument; the Sonoma Development Center, and the quaint town of Glen Ellen (where Jack London spent his final years).

Our Sonoma Wine Tours Include Visits to Exceptional Wineries

While winery stops vary from season to season or availability changes due to special events, we always visit at least three wineries for semi-private tastings during our Sonoma wine tour. Tasting fees range from $25- $45 per person.

• Benziger Family Winery
• B.R. Cohn Winery
• Deerfield Ranch Winery
• VJB Cellars
• Mayo Family Winery
• Buena Vista Winery
• Imagery Estate Winery
• Madrone Estate Winery
• Paradise Ridge
• Larson Winery
• Gloria Ferrar
• Valley Of The Moon
• Little Family Winery
• Sebastiani Vineyards

Sonoma Wine Tours

Tour sonoma's wineries & vineyards.

When exploring Sonoma, you can’t go wrong from one breathtaking view to another. Located just north of the Bay Area of San Francisco and Oakland, the Sonoma Valley is in the heart of the best wine country in the entire United States. In all of Sonoma County, there are more than 425 wineries! That leaves plenty to be explored over a single trip, and many reasons to come back and explore even more.

Sonoma , sometimes referred to as the Valley of the Moon, is one of the first places in California to cultivate wine and establish beautiful vineyards to create some of the best experiences in the world. In addition to the centerpiece attraction of the sweeping winery scene, there are plenty of world-class hotels and restaurants to experience in Sonoma.

Bordered to the north by the Montini Open Space Preserve, a beautiful hiking area, El Verano and Boyes Hot Springs to the west, Buena Vista to the east and Four Corners to the south, Sonoma is the perfect place to start your wine tours and center the plan for your itinerary while discovering Wine Country.

Eclectic Tour specializes in finding the best, largely undiscovered small, family-owned wineries in Sonoma. With so many to choose from, Eclectic Tour takes your tastes and interests and applies them to our vast knowledge of the Sonoma Valley and beyond to create a fully customized and unique wine tour of Sonoma. We will take you to the wineries, work with the representatives at each site to prepare an experience you are looking for, whether it is branching out and discovering new flavors, sticking to your favorites, or a combination of both! Wine tours with Eclectic Tour leave no stone unturned in finding the perfect wineries, pairings and other experiences that will make your trip one you will never forget — until your next!

Beyond winery expertise, Eclectic Tour offers travel across the Sonoma Valley winery scene in style. Our luxurious vehicles are comfortable and will be the perfect mode of transportation for your discovery of Sonoma’s beautiful wineries. Additionally, we have exceptional knowledge in the best hotels and restaurants to make sure your trip isn’t just spectacular wine adventures, but a completely holistic trip that meets and exceeds your expectations at every turn.

Looking for a custom wine tour of Sonoma? Contact Darren and our team at Eclectic Tour to see what tour option would be perfect for your next trip to Wine Country.

Ready To Get Started?

Choose one of our amazing tours that best suits you and get your sonoma valley wine and tour adventure underway.

• OUR TOURS AND RATES

© 2024 Eclectic Tour. All Photography done by Darren Schauer - All rights reserved

• GET IN TOUCH

The Veteran Wine Lover

* The rate: $120/hour (SUV/max 6 people), or $140/hour (Mercedes Sprinter Coach/max 9 people) + 20% gratuity added to final bill.  Additional travel time and a refueling fee may apply for required travels outside Napa Valley and Sonoma proper.  For groups of 10 people or larger please email or call us for a quote.  Venmo is our preferred payment method, but i f you would like to settle your bill with cash,   we are happy to offer a 5% discount.  A 3.5% fee applies when paying via credit card.

* Description: This 5-hour minimum tour is designed to accommodate the guest with a more discerning palate, who is interested in visiting some of the more hidden gems in the Wine Country. Wineries will be chosen by preference for varietals, purchasing intentions and price point interest. Your tour will included at least one winery operational tour to learn about the making of wine and their viticulture practices.

Lunch can be a picnic, chefs prepared at the winery, gourmet catered lunch boxes or possibly a formal sit-down at any of the area’s world class restaurants. Please let us know any and all dietary restrictions or requirements. We are happy to make the reservations or place orders for you, the options are endless.

Complementary photography and bottled water will be provided for all guests of Eclectic Tour.  Photos are uploaded to Drop Box and the link will be emailed to you in the days following your tour.

Tasting fees, wine and Food purchased are not included in the above pricing. Tasting Fees may be waived with qualifying purchase.

Pick up locations beyond Napa Valley or Sonoma Town proper may incur an additional charge.

To ensure that we create your ideal day with us, we will chat via phone and discuss the finer details about your visit.  This is a great time to talk about your dinner plans, or spa reservations, answer any last minute questions and simply get to know each other better.  Your itinerary will then be generated and emailed over to you for your review.  Prepare to create new memories!

The Connoisseur

This tour, by either Escalade ESV, luxury SUV or Mercedes Sprinter Coach (depending on the size of your group), will consist of three to four wineries, well visited, including time for lunch. Wineries will be chosen by preference for varietal and price point interest. Each winery visit will be either private or with a very small group. At least one winery operational tour will be offered to give a good perspective on viticulture practices and particular winemaking style.

Lunch can be a picnic, chefs prepared at the winery, gourmet catered lunch boxes or possibly a formal sit-down at any of the area’s world class restaurants. A 3-4 course lunch provided by one of the wineries may be requested at an additional fee. Please let us know any and all dietary restrictions or requirements. We are happy to make the reservations or place orders for you, the options are endless.  Complementary photography and bottled water will be provided for all guests of Eclectic Tour.  Photos are uploaded to Drop Box and the link will be emailed to you in the days following your tour.

Rate: $120/hr. (6-pass. SUV), or $140/hr. (9-passenger Mercedes Sprinter). 6-hour minimum and 20% gratuity will be added to your final bill.  Additional travel time and a refueling fee may apply for required travels outside Napa Valley and Sonoma proper.  Venmo is our preferred payment method, but i f you would like to settle your bill with cash, we are to happy to offer a 5% discount.  A 3.5% fee applies when paying via credit card.

Maximum of 9 passengers depending on vehicle selection. For groups of 10 people or larger please email or call us for a quote.

Tasting Fees, Wine and Food Purchased are not included in the above pricing.

Purchases Expectations per Winery: Minimum of Six bottles per couple.

An itinerary of winery visits for your day will be emailed to you several days before your reserved tour.

The Collector

Looking to re-stock your cellar with rare, high-end and cult wines, then the Collector’s tour is for you! This is a six to eight-hour tour with owners and winemakers (when available) at private, exclusive wineries. There will be two to four wineries visited and they will be totally customized to your preference for varietal and price point. Time will be given for tours of each winery operation and tasting of current releases or reserves.

A 3-4 course catered lunch will be provided by one of the wineries at an additional fee, or if you prefer, a formal sit-down at any of the area’s world class restaurants. Please let us know any and all dietary restrictions or requirements. We are happy to make the reservations or place orders for you, the options are endless.  Complementary photography and bottled water will be provided for all guests of Eclectic Tour.  Photos are uploaded to Drop Box and the link will be emailed to you in the days following your tour.

Base Rate:  $120/hr. (6-Passenger SUV), or $140/hr. (9-passenger Mercedes Sprinter Coach). 6 hour minimum and 20% gratuity will be added to your final bill.  Additional travel time and a refueling fee may apply for required travels outside Napa Valley and Sonoma proper.   If you would like to settle your bill with cash, we are happy to offer a 5% discount.  A 3.5% fee applies when paying via credit card.

For groups of 10 people or larger please email or call us for a quote.

Tasting fees, where applicable, are not included in above rates.

Purchases Expectations per Winery: Minimum of one case per couple at each winery.

Sonoma County Wineries

Sonoma County has a long history as one of the premier agricultural regions of the United States. With more than 250 wineries spread out over 13 distinct American Viticultural Areas, it’s little wonder that this corner of California has become synonymous with its wine. Delicate Pinot Noir, zesty Chardonnay and robust Cabernet Sauvignon flourish in these fertile soils, and the result is an oenological blend that’s placed Sonoma County at the top of wine lovers’ bucket lists. Choose from the subregions below or view a list of ALL Sonoma County wineries.

TRAVEL RECOMMENDATIONS

Featured Partner

Ironhorse vineyard.

Taste Sparkling Wines that have been served at the White House since 1985

Pure Luxury Wine Tours

Once in awhile you need to pack a bag, grab some friends and go on a road trip to wine country!

Book an Experience in Sonoma and Nearby

Williamson Wines

Winemakers private cellar luncheon.

A private 5 course lunch pairing with the winemaker featuring delicious wines expertly paired with creation by the culinary team.

Getaway Adventures

Cycle, sip & smile in healdsburg.

Explore Healdsburg's beautiful backroads and taste from the best wineries, while on a relaxing bike tour!

The Ranch at Lake Sonoma

Secret horseback ride & picnic.

A guided horseback ride to an exclusive vista overlooking Lake Sonoma with a picnic lunch and wine/beer after.

Inspirations

Wine 12 Sonoma Wines to Reach for This Spring

Spring has sprung! If you’re looking for ideas on which wines to drink as the weather warms up, we’re sharing 12 Sonoma County wines to try this spring.

Wine What Makes Sonoma County Pinot Noir So Special

Sonoma County is home to some of the most elegant pinot noirs in California, but what makes Sonoma pinot so special? We’re breaking it down region by region.

Moshin Vineyards

Continue to list

Lodging What's New in Sonoma County 2021

Despite the pandemic, Sonoma County is just as enticing for food and wine lovers as ever before. Here are the top new places to eat, drink, and stay in Sonoma.

Wineries 4 Reasons to Visit J Vineyards This Summer

J Vineyards may be popular for its wine, but it’s also a true culinary destination. We have all the delicious ways to enjoy a visit to J Vineyards this summer.

Restaurants

J vineyards & winery, featured partners, sponsored ad.

Platypus Wine Tours

Sonoma valley winery directory, top sonoma valley wineries.

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

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

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

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

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

Adastra Vineyards

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

Amapola Creek Vineyards

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

Anaba winery

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

Arrowood Vineyards and Winery

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

B Wise Estate

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

Bartholomew Estate Winery

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

BR Cohn Winery

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

Buena Vista Winery

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

Canihan Family Cellars

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

Chateau St Jean Winery

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

Cline Cellars

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

Deerfield Ranch Winery

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

Donum Estate

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

Glen Lyon Vineyards

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

Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards

Inspired by a centuries-old understanding of the balance between earth and wine, we pursue winegrowing with a respect for each vine and for each person in our extended family. Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards implemented the Code of Sustainable Winegrowing Practices and became certified in 2016.

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

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

Hamel Family Wines

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

Hanzell Vineyards

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

Homewood Winery

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

Imagery Winery

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

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards

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

Karmen Estate Wines

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

Kenwood Vineyards

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

La Rochelle Winery

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

Landmark Winery

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

Lasseter Family Wines

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

Little Vineyards

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

You can avoid all of the work and stress of planning your Napa Valley or Sonoma wine region visit by allowing us to guide you through a most compelling and memorable day in the wine country!

On our small group join-in wine tours, you’ll meet other wine adventurers on a roomy shuttle led by one of our friendly and informative tour guides. We’ll pick you up from your area lodging for a day filled with fun, flavor and adventure!

Or…make it private! We’re happy to accommodate couples or groups of any size for customized tours through the wine country.

Join-in Tours Private Tours

Walking Vineyard Tour

Come take a stroll in our vineyards, where you can relax and savor a glass of our Vista Brut in the peaceful Oak Grove. Discover the unique qualities of our Pinot Noir variety as you explore selected blocks. You'll also have the opportunity to learn about our wines, the Carneros region, and the life cycle of the vines.

• Times 10am, Wednesday - Monday (April - September)
• Group Size Maximum of 4
• Duration 45 minutes
• Location Oak Grove

Experience Details:

Due to the terrain of the vineyards, comfortable closed toed walking shoes are required.

With the exception of registered service animals, we do not allow dogs. To provide a safe, relaxing, and intimate experience for our guests, we ask that all visitors be at least 21 years of age.

A Taste of Gloria Ferrer

Private experiences.

Looking for a VIP or Private Experience? Reach out to our personal concierge to build your experience today.

Welcome to wine country. Discover it with us.

Discover this wonderful part of Northern California with all its dynamic and diverse offerings. Enjoy internationally acclaimed wineries and amazing cuisine while surrounded by magnificent coastline views, lush mountains, and giant redwoods.

The experience possibilities are limitless.

Centrally located between three renowned AVAs

Located in stunning Sonoma County, California and based in the charming town of Healdsburg, Platinum Vine Tours offers unparalleled access to amazing wine from the Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley appellations.

Book your tour

Local knowledge with years of industry expertise

Thanks to more than two decades of wine industry experience and an abundance of local knowledge, our staff will make sure that your trip is one to remember. From small, family-owned boutique wineries to high-end estates to those hidden gems, our concierge will craft an itinerary that is sure to suit your needs.

Learn about our custom tours

A fleet to fit your party

Located in stunning Sonoma County, California and based in the charming town of Healdsburg, Platinum Vine Tours offers access to amazing wine from the Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley appellations.

• Mission & Values

Grower Profiles

Board of Directors

• Sonoma County Sustainability Program
• Sustainable Winegrowing Label

Climate Adaptation Certification

• Annual Sustainability Reports

Climate Farming Videos

Farm of the Future

Sonoma County Vineyard Adventures

• Sip & Learn
• Terroir & AVAs
• How to Read a Wine Label
• Somm Spotlight
• SF Giants MLB
• Houston Rockets NBA
• Latest News
• Upcoming Events

The Good Stuff

Choose from one of our Vineyard Adventures, or visit them all!

Our Vineyard Adventure walks are a perfect way to get outside, breath some fresh air and learn more about the wonderful place where your favorite wines are grown!

Explore below for more information and make a plan to visit one of our seven unique vineyard adventures throughout Sonoma County.

Stretch your legs, move your body and breath some fresh Sonoma County air! Getting outside and being active is part of the lifestyle here in Sonoma County. Check out each property’s Vineyard Adventure map for special wellness tips along your walk.

Viticulture is a fascinating science and our winegrowers work hard to make sure our vineyards produce the most sustainable, highest quality wine grapes around. Vineyard Adventures are a wonderful way to learn more about where your wine comes from.

There is just something about sipping wine in the place it was grown! Wandering a vineyard is fun and will give you a new appreciation for the wonderful wines that are made there. Browse below to find the best Vineyard Adventure experience for you!

AMISTA VINEYARDS, DRY CREEK VALLEY

Amista’s 20-acre estate vineyard, named Morningsong Vineyards, is on the valley floor in the heart of Dry Creek Valley. Stretching from Dry Creek Road to the banks of Dry Creek, it is comprised of the loose, gravelly soils typical of the area, providing excellent drainage. Their proximity to the Russian River Valley means that the vineyards linger in the cool morning fog before the sun begins to warm them.

Visitors will enjoy walking the property of Amista Vineyards, learning about their premiere Dry Creek Valley sparkling wines, and other Rhone varietals such as Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Guests will also see one of the largest fish and wildlife habitat restoration projects just steps away from the Tasting Room.

Amista Vineyards is revamping the experience and it will be available again at the end of April. 

Vineyard Tour Times: Daily 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Total Distance: 0.6 miles (25 minutes walking time) For Assistance Call: 707-431-9200 Location: 3320 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Check in at the tasting room to get the vineyard tour guide. https://www.amistavineyards.com/

BALLETTO VINEYARDS, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY

After growing their vegetable farming business since the late 1970’s, John and Terri Balletto saw the opportunity to also make a name in the winegrowing business. After seeing the high-quality Russian River Valley wines crafted from their fruit by other wine producers, John and Terri decided to pursue winemaking under the “Balletto Vineyards” name. Today, they are still using 10% of the grapes grown for our own label. They are currently in the 20-25,000 case range.

At Balletto Vineyards, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the adjacent wildlife preservation, cool-climate grape varieties such as Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris and the many soil types of the Russian River Valley. Visitors will also be surprised to learn of Balletto Vineyards’ favorite pastime, baseball, as they walk the Field of Dreams on the property.

Vineyard Tour Times: Daily 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Total Distance: 1.02 miles (40 minutes walking time) For Assistance Call: 707-568-2455 x101 Location: 5700 Occidental Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95401

Check in at the tasting room to get the vineyard tour guide. https://www.ballettovineyards.com/

LA CREMA WINERY, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY

La Crema was founded in 1979 as La Crema Viñera, meaning “Best of the Vine.” For more than 35 years, this family-owned and operated winery has focused exclusively on cool-climate coastal appellations, where ocean winds and fog allow grapes to ripen slowly on the vine. Today, they produce Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris from the best cool-climate regions – ranging from the Russian River Valley to Carneros. Using boutique, time-intensive techniques to produce distinctively balanced and elegant wines, La Crema combines consistent high quality and elegant flavor with a modern cosmopolitan personality.

Opened in August 2016, the La Crema Estate at Saralee’s Vineyard is the new home of La Crema, a hub of wine education and culinary exploration, featuring interactive guest experiences and an engaging, interactive environment. The Vineyard Adventure Tour is a great way to see all the beauty the property has to offer, learn about their leading efforts in sustainability and taste some fabulous wines.

Vineyard Tour Times: Daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Total Distance: 1.06 miles (45 minutes walking time) For Assistance Call: 707-525-6200 Location: 3575 Slusser Rd, Windsor, CA 95492

Check in at the tasting room to get the vineyard tour guide. https://www.lacrema.com/

MATANZAS CREEK, BENNETT VALLEY

The overwhelming beauty of Matanzas Creek has earned the Estate worldwide recognition as a premier California wine country destination, and is located in the heart of the Bennett Valley AVA. You are invited to stroll the grounds, play a game of bocce or enjoy the picnic areas – all while enjoying some world class wines.

Visitors will revel in the diverse views of the Estate and learn about the harmonious relationship between winegrower and winemaker. Guests will also have the opportunity to walk among hundreds of the famous Lavender Gardens.

Vineyard Tour Times: Daily 10:00 am – 4:30 pm Total Distance: 0.45 miles (25 minutes walking time) For Assistance Call: 707-521-7019 Location: 6097 Bennett Valley Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95404

Check in at the tasting room to get the vineyard tour guide. https://www.matanzascreek.com/

MAURITSON WINES, DRY CREEK VALLEY

The Mauritson family has been farming in Sonoma County since the late 1800s, making them one of Sonoma County’s oldest farming families in the area. They planted their first winegrapes in 1884, beginning a tradition of farming that has spanned six generations. In 2004, they decided to build their winery in Dry Creek Valley, and have continued to grow there since.

Today, the Mauritson family continues to farm more than 300 acres of wine grapes in Sonoma County, throughout the Dry Creek and Alexander Valley AVAs, as well as on the land that remains from their original ranch, now known as the Rockpile AVA. Take a self-guided Vineyard Walk for some beautiful sights, and learn all about the family’s history, their unique wines and hear about their commitment to sustainable farming.

Vineyard Tour Times: Daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Total Distance: 0.63 miles (25 minutes walking time) For Assistance Call: 707-431-0804 Location: 2859 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Check in at the tasting room to get the vineyard tour guide. https://www.mauritsonwines.com/

St Francis, Sonoma Valley

St Francis farms more than 380 acres of Certified Sustainable estate vineyards in Sonoma Valley and Russian River Valley, each with varying compositions of loam, clay and volcanic soils. They also nurture long-term relationships with top Sonoma County grape growers, giving the winery access to some of the region’s most coveted old vines Zinfandel and other varietals from acclaimed vineyards.

Guests will have the opportunity to see sustainable vineyard practices in action, from the wind machines to a weather monitoring station. At the end of the vineyard adventure, guests will be able to admire St. Francis’ two-acre organic garden, where Executive Chef Bryan Jones picks fresh vegetables and herbs daily.

Vineyard Tour Times: Daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Total Distance: 1.2 miles (35 minutes walking time) For Assistance Call: 707-833-2148 Location: 100 N Pythian Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95409

Check in at the tasting room to get the vineyard tour guide. https://www.stfranciswinery.com/

[email protected] (707)-522-5860 More Contact Info>

3245 Guerneville Road Santa Rosa, CA 95401

Mission & Values

Sustainability

Sustainability Program

Sustainable Winegrowers Label

Sustainability Reports

Terroir & AVAs

Vineyard Adventures

News & Events

Somm Corner

Grower Center

In partnership with the Sonoma County Grape Growers Foundation 2024 Sonoma County Winegrowers. All rights reserved. Terms .

Protect Your Trip »

26 Top Sonoma Wineries to Visit

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

Getty Images

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

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

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

Francis Ford Coppola Winery: Geyserville

Chad Keig | Courtesy of Francis Ford Coppola Winery

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

Address: 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, CA 95441

Jordan Vineyard & Winery: Healdsburg

Matt Armendariz | Courtesy of Jordan Vineyard & Winery

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

Address: 1474 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Patz & Hall: Sonoma

Courtesy of Patz & Hall

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

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

Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens: Fulton

Courtesy of Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens

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

Address: 5007 Fulton Road, Fulton, CA 95439

Martinelli Winery: Windsor

Courtesy of Martinelli Winery

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

Address: 3360 River Road, Windsor, CA 95492

Cline Family Cellars: Sonoma

Courtesy of Cline Cellars

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

Address: 24737 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476

Dry Creek Vineyard: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Dry Creek Vineyard

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

Address: 3770 Lambert Bridge Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Mauritson Wines: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Mauritson Wines

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

Address: 2859 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Keller Estate: Petaluma

Michael Ryan | Courtesy of Keller Estate

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

Address: 5875 Lakeville Highway, Petaluma, CA 94954

Laurel Glen Vineyard: Glen Ellen

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

Address: 13750 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, CA 95442

Ledson Winery & Vineyards: Kenwood

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

Address: 7335 state Route 12, Kenwood, CA 95409

Michel-Schlumberger Wine Estate: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Michel-Schlumberger Benchland Estate

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

Address: 4155 Wine Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

MacRostie Winery & Vineyards: Healdsburg

Kathryn MacDonald | Courtesy of MacRostie Winery & Vineyards

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

Address: 4605 Westside Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Iron Horse Vineyards: Sebastopol

Courtesy of Iron Horse Vineyards

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

Address: 9786 Ross Station Road, Sebastopol, CA 95472

Rodney Strong Vineyards: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Rodney Strong Vineyards

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

Address: 11455 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, CA 95448

J Vineyards & Winery: Healdsburg

Courtesy of J Vineyards & Winery

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

Address: 11447 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery

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

Address: 8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Arrowood Vineyards & Winery: Glen Ellen

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

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

Ridge Vineyards: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Ridge Vineyards

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

Address: 650 Lytton Springs Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Chalk Hill Estate: Healdsburg

Courtesy of Chalk Hill Estate

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

Address: 10300 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery: Jenner

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

Address: 15725 Meyers Grade Road, Jenner, CA 95450

Buena Vista Winery: Sonoma

Scott Chebegia | Courtesy of Buena Vista Winery

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

Address: 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, CA 95476

Ram's Gate Winery: Sonoma

Courtesy of Ram's Gate Winery

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

Address: 28700 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476

Hamel Family Wines: Sonoma

Courtesy of Hamel Family Wines

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

Address: 15401 state Route 12, Sonoma, CA 95476

Matanzas Creek Winery: Santa Rosa

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

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

Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards: Sonoma

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

Address: 23555 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Napa Valley Wineries to Visit
• The Top Romantic Getaways in California
• The Best Wine Vacations
• The Best Relaxing Getaways in the U.S.
• The Top Europe Hotels for Food and Wine Lovers
• The Best Carry-On Luggage
• The Top Pet Carriers
• The Top Duffel Bags
• The Top Travel Garment Bags

Tags: Travel , Food Vacations , California Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 17 best costa rica tours.

Lyn Mettler April 12, 2024

Hard vs. Soft Luggage

Rachael Hood April 12, 2024

The Best Kauai Boat Tours

Lyn Mettler April 11, 2024

The Top-Rated NYC Food Tours

Ann Henson April 11, 2024

The Best Things to Do in Maine

Mariya Greeley and Nicola Wood April 10, 2024

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

John Rodwan and Amanda Norcross April 9, 2024

The Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows

Korrin Bishop April 9, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 8, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

The Best Wine Tasting & Tours In Sonoma Valley

Browse Through The Best Selection Of Sonoma Valley Wine Tours

Wine tasting and tour at Passaggio Wines

Share an amazing wine tasting and tour with your family and friends at Passaggio Winery.

Wine tasting and tour at Optima

Enjoy the opportunity to explore the vineyards and sample some of the best Sonoma wines paired with delicious local food at Optima Winery

Wine tasting and tour at Le Vin Winery

Enjoy your opportunity to visit the vineyards and cellars at Le Vin winery on Sonoma Valley and sample some wines and olive oils paired with local delicacies

Wine tasting and tour at Kivelstadt Cellars

Enjoy a wine tasting and guided tour at Kivelstadt Cellars in California.

Wine tasting and tour at Karah Estate Vineyard

Unique Wine Tasting Experiences, Paired with a Vineyard and Cellar Tour

Wine Tasting and Tour at Grenachista Wine Company

Indulge in a memorable wine tasting and tour experience in Sonoma Valley, California, and discover the distinct character of this enchanting subregion

Wine tasting and tour at Emeritus Vineyards

Enjoy the savor of an exotic Pinot Noir wine tasting and take USA’s best winery tour at Emeritus Vineyards

Wine Tasting and Tour at BobDog Wines

Wine experiences to create memories for a life time

Are you looking for something specific?

Explore our experience categories and discover the perfect wine adventure in Sonoma Valley

Food & Wine Tours in Sonoma Valley

Outdoor Wine Activities in Sonoma Valley

Picnic & Wine Tours in Sonoma Valley

Best cities to visit in sonoma valley, usa.

Sonoma Valley Wine Map

Frequently asked questions.

The most frequently asked questions by our visitors

How to reach wine tastings and tours in Sonoma Valley?

The best season to experience wine tastings and tours in sonoma valley, what to taste during wine tastings and tours in sonoma valley, what is a typical wine tasting and tour in sonoma valley like, top places to visit in sonoma valley.

• Sonoma's Redwoods and rivers are great surroundings worth a visit, bringing guaranteed adventure or relaxation, whichever one may prefer.
• There are several unique and nature bound spas, that will bring your relaxation to its highest peak.
• Sonoma Coast State Park, South Salmon Creek Beach, and North Salmon Creek Beach are just some jewels to mention, worth to experience if visiting the Californian West Coast.

Plan the perfect wine tasting in Sonoma Valley

Exploring Sonoma County's plethora of wineries across 19 distinct American Viticulture Areas (AVAs) can be overwhelming, given the choice of wine experiences available.

Sonoma wine tours extend beyond traditional limousine rides although that remains a fantastic option. You can choose to take food and wine experiences, amazing vineyard picnics and enjoy outdoor scenarios as much as possible, all while immersing yourself in the area's rich history and potentially indulging in delectable bites. Unsure about which Sonoma tour suits your preferences? Rest assured, any of these top tours listed below will unveil an alternative perspective of Sonoma, and perhaps even a new aspect of yourself.

Read more about Sonoma Valley

Get more information about Sonoma Valley wine subregion located in California , USA . Explore other nearby subregions, like Napa Valley and Willamette Valley to discover tips and suggestions for your next trip.

Discover more experiences in Sonoma Valley

Check out the best Wine Tasting & Tours in California . If you are looking for more nearby wineries to choose from, visit the Wineries in Sonoma Valley page.

Get your monthly boost of wine inspiration

Join our newsletter now to receive our free guide on how to plan the perfect wine tour

Burdick Vineyard Tours

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

19201 Sonoma Hwy

Sonoma, CA 95476

You Might Also Consider

Platypus Wine Tours

Joyce M. said "Amazing experience!! Learned so much about the Napa Valley area, the vineyards, the different regions and great wine tasting tips. We will definitely be back! By the way, Napa was not affected nearly as bad as the fricken media made…" read more

in Wine Tours

Napa Luxury Coach

Johanna P. said "Excellent service is an understatement with this company. From planning the route, making reservations, confirming itineraries and picking us up ahead of time, this company was impressive. Very professional and easy to deal with.…" read more

in Limos, Wine Tours

Hughes Elegant Travel

I personally curate the entire travel experience for my travelers. I take significant interests in what they desire and I work towards that goal no matter if I am paid for a particular service or not. It's about the client… read more

in Travel Agents, Hotels

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Burdick Vineyard Tours .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

John did his homework, he listened to what we wanted and HE DELIVERED! John knows his stuff and has fantastic connections in both Napa and Sonoma. He's fun and interesting and we were very comfortable spending the day with him. He took good care of us. John has so many great relationships in the valley because he's a sommelier and restauranteur with his wife. We had a delicious lunch and wished we had time to have eaten at his restraunt, Olive & Vine in Glen Ellen. John took us to some incredible places and the both the wine and wine makers were fantastic. We were shocked how enthusiastically they shared their knowledge and passion with us. John was flexible and made sure we got exactly what we were looking for out of our experience. And he made it our experience instead of a cookie cutter program. That made our day PERFECT! we highly recommend John for your next wine country tour. You won't be disappointed!

This was easily the best day of wine tasting we have ever had. We don't know Sonoma wines very well and totally left it to John to craft a day for us. After inquiring about what we like to drink and what we are interested in, he set up private tastings at three great small production wineries. The tastings included discussions with the wine makers, taking a look at the vines themselves, and tours of the barrel caves. He picked up lunch from the Olive and Vine, the restaurant he owns with his wife, the chef. The lunch was fantastic -- really incredible and abundant -- and we dined in the cave room at one of the vineyards. We really appreciated John's balance between sharing his deep knowledge of the area as a sommelier while letting us experience the vineyards on our own. The service John provides is so much more than just transportation! We cannot recommend him enough!

Just part of the lunch for two from the Olive and Vine.

John took our group on a custom tour for three days in April 2011. John personally picked each of the Sonoma and Napa Vineyards and allowed our group to have access to owners and private tastings that would not typically be open to the general public. Our group was comprised of a spectrum of wine drinkers including those with little knowledge of the wine making process. John and the vineyard owners gave us a personal and up-close education while we enjoyed many fine California wines. We had an incredibly fun time with the vineyard owners and with the group. John had everything perfectly planned and was attentive to detours along the the way including spur of the moment additions to our schedule. I can't imagine returning to Sonoma without reengaging John's services - touring on our own after this experience could never be the same! If you're on the fence about hiring John Burdick or going it alone, just make the call and get your reservations - this is a no brainer. Thanks John!

I cannot say enough about the fantastic experience I had working with John Burdick for a recent trip to Sonoma! I started planning the trip with John, and from our first interaction, he was attentive and professional. He was extremely interested in the group I was traveling with and what our likes, dislikes and level of knowledge was. As novice wine enthusiasts, I was grateful for all the feedback he provided during the planning. His communication during the planning was great. I always felt like he was on top of everything. After the itinerary was set, he shared it with the group to make sure we were happy with the selections and could get an idea of what we would be experiencing. He was also in contact the days before just to follow up and be sure we were thoroughly excited for the tour! Meeting John for the first time was like seeing an old friend. My group felt instantly comfortable with him. We spent 3 wonderful days with him. The locations he selected and the interaction with the winemakers and staff of the wineries was incredible. We had a catered lunch at one of the wineries during Day 1. His wife catered the lunch for the entire group. If you have an option to do this with him, please do not miss this. The food was amazing! The entire experience far exceeded our expectations. John provided a tour that I cannot even imagine could be better. I don't want to speak about the individual wineries, as is someone else decides to book with John (and they should) I would want them to uncover the tour with the same surprise and joy that my group did! It is also important to mention that John is EXTREMELY knowledgeable about wine and area. John is currently working on opening a new restaurant in Sonoma - and my group is already considering how we can be there when it opens! I would not miss an opportunity to spend time with him again!

For my first trip to Sonoma and Napa, John helped exceed all of my expectations! I wouldn't dream of coming back to the area without using John. I feel like I truly had a one of a kind experience. Thank you John.

This couldn't have been better for a first trip to the wine country (and the one of our crew who has been several times to the wine country.) She even commented, "this was awesome, I love getting to go to different wineries than I've been to before." To be honest, I was skeptical of fleeing a wine tour in favor of a personal setting for my BFF's birthday/ girls weekend getaway! John made it easy to do this. He is a terrific communicator and beyond knowledgeable about what will fit for any group. Debbie was our guide and she was PERFECT!!! Honestly, I can't say enough great things about her. Chauffering around four opinionated ladies, drinking wine that haven't seen in each other in months could drive someone a little nuts ~ not Debbie she is upbeat, knowledgeable and FUN!!! Great photographer too. I would do this again and again ~ it's great not to worry about where you're going or about the winery (unless you have specific ones - which we did) and just enjoy the scenery, hospitality and VINO ~ and know that if you want to change direction at anytime or stay a little longer somewhere - you can!! Including lunch is MUST! Olive and Vine had the best lunch ever ~ and Debbie even went out of her way to get two of the most adorable, yummy cupcakes for our bday girls including candles! Treat yourself to this experience ~ it's worth its weight in gold!

John Burdick is by far the best tour guide I have worked with in 10 years in the industry. As an industry person I have worked with his company over the years and have enjoyed the customers he brings in. People come in with knowledge and it's a good fit; not like other guide that just take groups to the normal "routine" places becasue they give those guides free tastings. On the consumer side (and really not touring often) John is the perfect guide to take you on an afternoon of blissful engagments with interesting wine educators and outstanding hard to find wines. Where do you want to go? Don't know? Know what you like? All you have to do is name a varietal and your day can be planned, if you'd like to sit back and let an expert create a great day for you to remember. My day was to be all bubbles! what could be better?! Schramsberg for the tour (appoinment only) and then Mumm and Domaine Chandon since I love, love their rose (the one you cannot find in the store). All in all, the day was what I wanted it to be and I would recommend John Birdick tours to everyone. Also, I have been studying to be a master Sommelier, so I throughly enjoyed chatting with him and look forward to more :)

We have been going on fabulous wine tours with John for many years. You would think we would have gotten bored by now, but each time is better than the last. He is so knowledgeable and so much FUN! He takes us to the most exquisite and beautiful places and then even entertains us! He plays and sings the guitar, on occasion. He also arranges for some great lunches, our last lunch was from the Olive and Vine in Glen Ellen, which we enjoyed in a breathtaking setting. John is the best, your experience will be unforgettable, guaranteed!

I have been to the Napa / Sonoma area a few times previously and loved it. However, using John for our group for tastings took it to another level. First class all the way and unbelievable wines and visits. I will use Burdick Tours every visit from now on - no question.

Apex Limousine Transportation and Wine Tours

Our Wine Tours and Limousine Service provides customizable Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour transportation from the Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley, San Francisco, East Bay Area and the Marin County. Apex Limousine Wine Tours and Transportation… read more

Paradise Wine Tours

Paradise Wine tours has been in the transportation business for 15 years. We go the extra mile to make sure our clients have the best possible experience in Northern California Wine Country! If you are looking for the best wine… read more

in Wine Tours, Airport Shuttles

People Also Viewed

Napa Valley Wine Guides

Sonoma Wine Rides

Napa Private Tours

Napa Valley Tours LLC

Comfort Wine Tours

Rose Wine Tours

Max Wine Tours

Your Driver In Napa Wine Tours

Papillon California

Valet of the Moon Wine Tours

Best of Sonoma

Things to do in Sonoma

Other Tours Nearby

Find more Tours near Burdick Vineyard Tours

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Limo Service

Mines Near Me

Tours Near Me

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

Grand Tour Tickets Now on Sale! 200+ great wines, 3 great cities: New Orleans, Las Vegas, Denver

Wine Spectator

• I'm a member Sign In
• I'm not a member Subscribe
• Insider Weekly
• My Personal Wine List
• Value Wines
• Newsletter Subscriptions
• Manage My Account
• My Control Panel
• Ratings Search
• Daily Wine Pick
• Tasting Reports
• Winery Intel
• Vintage Charts
• About Our Tastings
• Ask Dr. Vinny
• Know Your Grapes
• What Am I Tasting?
• Wine & Health
• Readers' Dogs
• Winery Dogs
• Going Native
• Wine & Design
• Search Winners
• All Grand Awards
• Enter the Awards
• Dining Articles
• Recipe Search
• Wine & Food Pairing
• Member Benefits
• Online Subscription
• Print Subscription
• Online Gift Subscription
• Print Gift Subscription
• Email Newsletters
• Magazine Archives
• For the Trade
• Submit Wines
• Enter Restaurant Awards
• Shanken Ratings Network
• MarketWatch Magazine
• Shanken News Daily
• Retailer Club
• Advertise with Us
• 40th Anniversary
• Wine Shop Search
• Wine School

Member Links

Srn member links, 7 excellent california zinfandels up to 92 points.

With reds from Sonoma, Lodi and beyond, these new reviews spotlight one of the Golden State's signature grapes

• Aaron Romano

Despite its somewhat mysterious origins , the Zinfandel grape variety has played an important role in California’s wine history. After the majority of the state’s vineyards were devastated by phylloxera in the late 1800s, Zinfandel was among the first varieties replanted and it became highly significant for red table wines. Today, there are nearly 40,000 acres of Zinfandel vines throughout California, making it the third-most widely planted red grape in the state. In this lineup, we spotlight several regions, including a few lesser-known areas where Zinfandel flourishes.

The top scorer in this list is a Zinfandel-based blend from Jeff Cohn Cellars . Winemaker Jeff Cohn cut his teeth at Zin specialist Rosenblum Cellars before founding his namesake label. For his Smoke & Mirrors bottling, he combines his Zinfandel experience with his love for Rhône-style wines: While Zinfandel makes up the bulk of the blend, it's rounded out by a heavy dose of Syrah . In some years, Cohn adds touches of Grenache , Mourvèdre or Petite Sirah , aiming for a blend reminiscent of Côtes du Rhône. The 2022 bottling is plush and lively with fresh raspberry and cherry flavors and cracked pepper and espresso accents.

This lineup also includes Bedrock's Pato Vineyard Heritage Contra Costa County 2022, a tightly wound red with cherry, cranberry and green peppercorn flavors. Read on to get our score and full tasting note for this Zinfandel and six others!

Tasting Highlights' wine reviews are fresh out of the tasting room, offering a sneak peek of our editors' most recent ratings—including scores and full tasting notes—to WineSpectator.com members.

Member-Only Content

Join today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 400,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.

Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!

Full access to our database of more than 400,000 wine ratings

Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines

Wine and food pairing tool, chefs' pairing recommendations

Best value wines and winery intel

You Might Also Like

Pure burgundies.

A frosty spring in 2021 reduced yields, but top vintners used cellar savvy to make elegant …

• Bruce Sanderson

Travel the Globe with These 11 Fantastic Chardonnays Up to 93 Points

Discover delicious wines from France, California, Oregon and South Africa with these new …

• Larry Rubin

Alphabetical Guide to Red Burgundy

More than 325 red wines from France’s Burgundy region were reviewed by Wine Spectator …

Alphabetical Guide to Alto Adige

More than 160 wines from across Italy’s Alto Adige were reviewed by Wine Spectator senior …

Alphabetical Guide to Chile

More than 165 wines from across Chile were reviewed by Wine Spectator senior editor Aaron …

2021 Bordeaux: A Blast from the Past

The toughest vintage this century evokes a comparison with the lackluster wines of the 1970s

• James Molesworth

Free Wine Spectator Email Newsletters

Sign Up for Wine Spectator’s Free Email Newsletters and stay up-to-date with all things wine.

WineRatings+

Restaurant search, wine spectator podcasts.

• Get the App

RivCo Wine Lovers, Hop A Plane To Sonoma From Palm Springs

P ALM SPRINGS, CA — It's a hop, skip, and a jump from Palm Springs to Santa Rosa/Sonoma, with more direct flights added to Palm Springs International Airport, that agency announced.

Avelo Airlines has added service to NorCal wine country and Sonoma County from the desert airport, offering an easy way to visit wineries in the central and northern parts of the state.

Executive Director of Aviation at Palm Springs International Airport, Harry Barrett, Jr., discussed the addition of the flights and what it means for travelers from Riverside County.

According to Avelo Airlines, flights are available for under $100 each way, less than a tank of gasoline there and back.

Sonoma is famous for its award-winning restaurants as well as its wineries.

"Avelo Airlines’ extension of service from PSP to Santa Rosa offers the perfect opportunity to escape the desert heat this summer and immerse themselves in the cool charm of Sonoma County," Barrett Jr. said.

The service with Avelo launched two years ago, offering travel to NorCal and Oregon. With more flights, residents can expand their travel opportunities and beat the summer heat at wineries, as well as enjoy the variety of outdoor activities Sonoma County has to offer.

Once there, travelers can either rent cars or Uber or book wine tours, such as Riverside County's Grapeline Wine Tours, which offers service to Napa, Sonoma, and Paso Robles, as well as in Riverside County.

Palm Springs International Airport is set to break records from last year when over 3.2 million passengers passed through its gates. As of February, the airport was forecast to bring over 650,000 travelers through the city.

Barrett Jr. says the airport "eagerly anticipates exceeding expectations in 2024 and striving to ensure an unrivaled experience in air travel.”

Expanded Dining Options Coming To Palm Springs International Airport

Grapeline Wine Tours Expands Santa Barbara Wine Country Offerings

Renée Zellweger, Ant Anstead's Temecula Wine Country Adventure

Chateau Montelena And The Tasting That Changed Napa Valley

Locals Savor Return Of Napa Valley's Mustard Celebration

The article RivCo Wine Lovers, Hop A Plane To Sonoma From Palm Springs appeared first on Palm Desert Patch .