Sonoma County Day Trips Spring/Summer 2013

Spring/Summer 2013
DAY TRIPS
9
Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country
A publication of
46
from Cloverdale to Sonoma
NINE WINE TASTING
plus Dining Directory
FORTY SIX TASTING ROOM REVIEWS

and Varietals Chart
TRIPS
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
Rockpile Lake FRITZ Sonoma

FERRARI-CARANO DUTCHER CROSSING
STEWARTS POINT RD
CANYON
Alexander Valley
I AN RUSS
RD.
DUTCHER CR EEK
Dry Creek Valley

Pages 11-20
Northern Sonoma
Dry Creek
TRUETT HURST
FORCHINI FAMILY WINERIES OF DRY CREEK VALLEY KOKOMO WINERY TRATTORE ESTATE WINES
ER RIV
CR DRY
101
DRY CREEK VNYD

Y DR W.
LYTTON SPGS
128
ALE XA N DE R
VALLEY
Downtown Healdsburg and Alexander Valley

Pages 28-32
ALEXANDER VALLEY VINEYARDS
STEPHEN & WALKER
ALDERBROOK
D.
Russian River
1
116
WESTSI
ES TS ID
ER RIV
RD.
MUTT LYNCH RODNEY STRONG ARMIDA DE LA MONTANYA CHALK HILL

ER
DE
DRY CREEK RD.
RD. EEK EEK RD . CR
Knights Valley
CHRISTOPHER CREEK
LANCASTER ESTATES
KORBEL
Pages 33-37
GRATON RD.
GU
ER
NE VIL
LA GU
OL
Valley Russian River

MIAN
Green
SONOMA-CUTRER
SLU SSER
Chalk Hill
MARK W EST S
South of Healdsburg and Westside Road

Pages 21-27
RD.
RIV
ER RD.
NA
IVE
R GS PRIN
RD .
HOOK & LADDER

PIN ER
D.
BODEGA HIG HWA Y
Santa Rosa
Pages 38-42
Sonoma Coast
OC CID
EN
TA L
RD .
DARGENZIO ANCIENT OAK LOST CANYON WINERY CELLARS OF SONOMA

FU
LTO N
RD. OCCIDENTAL
RD .
E BOH
MARTIN RAY
HIGHWAY
LE
Kenwood and Hwy. 12

Pages 44-50
LEDSON WINERY & VINEYARDS ST. FRANCIS VINEYARDS & WINERY
VA L
LE Y
FO RD
CU TO FF
A Publication of
101 116
HIL LR OA D
GRAN GE
PE
MATANZAS BE CREEK NN
ET TV AL LE YR D.
TA LU MA
EN GARDE VJB VINEYARDS & CELLARS
CHATEAU ST. JEAN KENWOOD WINERY LOXTON CELLARS B.R. COHN LITTLE VINEYARDS
RO B
LA
RR
D.
PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco Bay Direct (707) 938-3734 mike@winecountrythisweek.com

BOD EGA
HWY
669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476 P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433 Tomales 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674
Glen Ellen
Pages 51-58
WASHINGTON
MOONDANCE ERIC ROSS VALLEY OF THE MOON
12
Editorial Contributors
Office Manager Cathy Gore Phone 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674 Email cathy@winecountrythisweek.com
Managing Editor Chandra Grant Phone 707-938-1783 Fax 707-938-3674 chandra@winecountrythisweek.com
SALES REPRESENTATIVE Jet Howell, 707-495-9385 winecountryjet1@att.net
FRAT ES
ST AG E
GU
116 101
LC H
CHARLES CREEK
116
BRYTER
12 121
Pages 59-63
Los Carneros Region
TO N APA
Sonoma
LARSON FAMILY
121
CLINE CELLARS MEADOWCROFT JACUZZI FAMILY VIANSA
TO V A LLEJO
LA VIL KE LE . RD
Michelle J. Baker, Brendan Conroy Monica L. Dashwood, Ronda Giangreco TO Mike Hyland, Charles Neave, Denise Olliffe SAN FRANCISCO Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Abigail Zimmerman
TO SAN FRANCISCO
37
Cover courtesy of Chateau St. Jean Winery, Sonoma
Los Carneros
Pages 64-69
San Pablo Bay
day trips
9 WINE TASTING day trips
Dry Creek Valley 11 South of Healdsburg 21 Downtown Healdsburg/Alexander Valley 28 Russian River 33 Santa Rosa 38 Kenwood 44 Glen Ellen 51 Sonoma 59 Los Carneros 64
Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country
SPRING/SUMMER 2013
helpful information
4 5 6 7 8/63 9 62/72 71-73 74-77 78-79
Heading to the Tasting Room Sonoma Canopy Tours The Wine Carriage Getaway Adventures Wine Country Cyclery Destiny Wine Tours Della Santinas Dining Recommendations Varietals Chart Sonoma County Wineries Map
46 Tasting Room Reviews

Alderbrook Winery Ancient Oak Armida Winery B.R. Cohn Winery BRYTER Estates Cellars of Sonoma Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery Charles Creek Vineyard Chateau St. Jean Christopher Creek Winery Cline Cellars DArgenzio Winery De La Montanya Dry Creek Vineyards Dutcher Crossing En Garde Winery Eric Ross Winery Family Wineries of Dry Creek Valley Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery Forchini Vineyards & Winery Fritz Underground Winery Hook & Ladder Winery & Vineyards Jacuzzi Winery 24 41 23 57 61 40 30 60 47 25 66 42 22 20 14 48 54 17 13 15 12 37 67 Kenwood Vineyards 50 Kokomo Winery 18 Korbel Champagne Cellars 34 Lancaster Estate Winery 31 Larson Family Wines 69 Ledson Winery & Vineyards 45 Little Vineyards Family Winery 56 Lost Canyon Winery 39 Loxton Cellars 58 Martin Ray Winery 35 Matanzas Creek Winery 52 Meadowcroft Wines 68 Moondance Cellars 53 Mutt Lynch Winery 26 RodneyStrong Vineyards 27 St. Francis Winery & Vineyards 46 Sonoma-Cutrer 36 Stephen & Walker Winery 32 Trattore Estate Wines 19 Truett Hurst Winery 16 VJB Vineyards & Cellars 49 Valley of the Moon Winery 55 Viansa Winery 65
Heading to the Tasting Room

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

If its on your bucket list to try something exhilarating, then step out of your comfort zone and into a harness at Sonoma Canopy Tours at Alliance Redwoods. Located in the heart of an ancient Northern California redwood grove in Occidental, a series of zipline challenges awaits thrill seekers. These aerial tours are an adrenaline rush, as participants glide their way through a 2.5-hour course in the treetop canopy. The view from the towering height of the platforms provides an unparalleled vantage point, experienced only by birds or by taking the tours. Perched high above the ground (at various heights), are a sequence of seven ziplines, two sky-bridges and a one-of-a-kind spiral staircase wrapped around the trunk of a magnificent, giant redwood. Participants soar from platform to platform while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The longest zipline is over 800 feet of steel cable suspended over a graceful creek. This exhilarating experience culminates with a rappel back down to the canopy floor. Sonoma Canopy Tours staff of experienced, well-trained tour guides keep safety top-of-mind at all times. Youll be harnessed, helmeted and taken through ground school training on zipline basics such as how to start and stop correctly, as well as safety precautions before you embark on the adventure. Not to worry each guest will get to practice from a platform on the ground then progress through the course as they gain confidence and get comfortable. Two guides accompany each group, one at the front and one at the rear, to help along the way. The experience is rounded out by the guides, acting as ecotour docents, educating guests about the redwood forest habitat unique only to Northern California a vital and rewarding part of each tour. By Denise Olliffe Boldly soar through the redwoods on a Sonoma Canopy Tours eco-adventure FAMILY FRIENDLY and excitement for ALL AGES This is an incredible adventure to be enjoyed by the entire family. Sonoma Canopy Tours oldest passenger was a woman who celebrated her 93rd birthday ziplining. Please be aware that there is a minimum age requirement of 10 years or older. Walter lives here The name of the oldest tree on the property (youll have to take a tour to find out more about this behemoth, primitive redwood).
Sonoma Canopy Tours

Open year-round Reservations are required 6250 Bohemian Highway Occidental, CA 95465
30 minutes west of Santa Rosa
1-888-494-7868 www.sonomacanopytours.com Email: info@sonomacanopytours.com Follow on Facebook and Twitter
$10 off Helmet Cam Rentals (with this coupon).

The Wine Carriage

From May through November, The Wine Carriage is a fun, intimate excursion through select vineyards of the Alexander Valley in Sonoma County. Owner and well-informed tour guide Bret LeRolland, is coachman of a shade-top carriage pulled by mighty draft horses meandering between rows of vines and up and down scenic countryside while guests pluck grapes right from their seats. This is no ordinary tour its an off-road, insiders trek (and the only horse-drawn carriage tour in Wine Country). The outings begin at 11 a.m., starting with a visit to Alexander Valley Vineyards where guests are taken to the underground, arched wine cavern filled with the aroma of aging wine in oak barrels, and treated to samples straight from the cask. Then, guests board the carriage for a cross-country excursion to Hanna Winery, which boasts commanding views of the entire valley. After a wine tasting at Hanna, a decadent gourmet lunch is served outside in the shade of a majestic oak. Fresh baguettes, herbed meats, local artisan and imported cheeses, mixed organic olives and organic strawberries are served topped off by wine-filled chocolate truffles for dessert. Wine can be purchased by the bottle or glass at the winery, to enjoy with lunch. After lunch, guests are taken on an adventurous, scenic journey across the valley to a final tasting at the award-winning Soda Rock Winery. By Denise Olliffe How to prepare Dress casual and comfortable for a day on The Wine Carriage. The service provides all the necessities spring water, lunch, coolers to accommodate purchases. The carriage has a shaded canopy (however you may want to bring a hat and wear sunscreen), and springs for a more comfortable ride, as well as padded seats. Cost and Discounts Tours are $175 per person. There are discounts for larger groups of eight to 12 passengers, and exclusive tours are arranged. Guests receive a ten percent discount on all purchases at the wineries visited. About the horses Cody and Cheyenne, two stately blonde draft horses (now in their second season with The Wine Carriage), and Duke and Pepper, two regal black Percherons (with the company for 10 years), pull the carriage for guests. A Fun Fact The enormous, powerful steeds weigh-in around one ton each, and at their rumps, stand taller than an average adult.
The Wine Carriage

8644 Highway 128, Healdsburg (707) 849-8989 | www.TheWineCarriage.com Look for them on Facebook!
Book now and receive a bonus wine tasting voucher for White Oak Winery.
Getaway Adventures
Ride the Wine Trail to the wine countrys small family-owned wineries, following the back roads and country lanes of Napa Valley and Sonoma County! Our Sip n Cycle is the quintessential day trip, taking in sun soaked landscapes, dotted with vines wineries and farms. Youll discover the best of this area with Getaway Adventures top-rated guides, sharing their secret spots and treating you like long lost friends. Every tour comes with our sumptuous Wine Country Picnic, prepared at selected wineries chosen for their country charm and great views. Velo n Vino. A cyclist dream ride! We do a spirited 20 to 40 miles in the morning, then put our road bikes away, take off our cleats and ride around by van to the taste wine after a great morning ride. If kayaking is your idea of adventure, come paddle the Russian River with us! We take you on one of five stretches, from Cloverdale to Jenner, each with a unique perspective. Choose either single or double kayaks, all geared at the energetic beginner. Fully guided, again our great lunch and plenty of swim breaks and photo ops. A great family trip, you can even bring your dog! Hike tours take us in the giant redwood forest, with towering 300+ feet trees. Then walk along the amazing Sonoma Coast with incomparable views then top it off with some Champagne. Great way to really see the best of the best this area has to offer with our local guides. Hidden Winery Van Tours. Come explore the areas smaller, boutique wineries with our custom-designed van tours, in airconditioned, 15-passenger vans that take you to some really cool wineries. Meet the owners and winemakers and taste world-class wines. Submitted Fun Facts Getaway Adventures was founded in 1991 and has served over 10,000 guests. It is the oldest continually owned bike tour operator in the Wine Country, serving both Napa and Sonoma Counties Did you Know? Getaway adventures specialized in group, corporate outings up to 200 people. Team building, R & R, incentive, whatever your reason we love groups and do over 40 a year. We now do Electric Bike tours in the Santa Rosa area. Top rated on trip advisor our guides are the best in the business! Dont Miss. Bike and Safari Tour. You bike in the morning to area wineries, then mingle with giraffes in the afternoon. Go to our website, check out other great tours like the Sip N Cycle, Pedal n Paddle, Velo n Vino, Farm Fresh Bike Tour and lots lots more
Getaway Adventures Wine Country Bike Tours

Specializing in bike, kayak and hiking tours in the Napa and Sonoma Wine Country (707) 568-3040 | 1-800-499-2453 getawayadventures.com
Like us on FACEBOOK and receive either a T-shirt or $15 off per person. Must mention this Promo code WCTW 1 with booking
Wine Country Cyclery

Wine Country Cyclery offers the perfect way to truly capture the grandeur of the Sonoma Valley. Why hassle with traffic when you can leisurely pedal to some of the valleys most celebrated tasting rooms. Wine Country visitors who simply fly by the vineyards at fifty miles per hour are missing out on the very best aspects of the experience. The aroma of the grapes, the warmth of the sun and sound of gentle breezes rustling through the vines are best enjoyed at a much more relaxed pace. The knowledgeable staff at Wine Country Cyclery will gladly help you plan an unforgettable winery tour, supplying you with maps and tasting room coupons. The shop is conveniently located just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma and offers a wide range of bikes for every skill level and age of cyclist. Their fleet of road bikes features some of the very best, including Cannondale EVOs and Trek Madones. They also have helmets and pedals. If you are planning on bringing your own bicycle to the wine country, Wine Country Cyclery has experienced mechanics available seven days a week to do last minute adjustments or make quick repairs. And, to finish off your day of adventure and sunshine, Wine Country Cyclery can arrange for you to savor a lite bite food and wine pairing at Roche Family Winery tasting room. With award-winning wines and the scrumptious offerings of the Sunflower Caffe, youll enjoy the perfect ending to your trip on their patio, gathered around the firepit, wine glass in hand. They even offer extended hours for late arrivals. Fun Facts Wine Country Cyclery boasts the youngest rental fleet of comfort hybrid bikes, replacing them yearly. Their high-end road bikes are continuously maintained for top performance. Already a cycling pro? Bring your own pedals, shoes, even your saddle a certified fitter will personally size you to your rental bike. If youre coming from far away, ship your bike to Wine Country Cyclery...theyll put it together and have it waiting for you. When youre ready to leave, theyll pack it carefully for a safe shipment back. Dont own your own equipment? They have a selection of helmets, locks and pedals such as Shimano, Look and SpeedPlay. Packing a picnic? Wine Country Cyclery has bike trailers that can hold all of your goodies, as well as your wine purchases along the way! Make it a family trip! Wine Country Cyclery has Tag-a-Long bikes that allow kids to enjoy the ride, too, as well as bike trailers that can seat two small children.

Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 262 W Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 (707) 996-6800 winecountrycyclery.com Follow Wine Country Cyclery on Facebook!
Destiny Wine Tours

Ill tell you the owner, Ray Hanson, is a real character and hes passionate about what he does. He loves talking with all kinds of people young people, older people, people from all around the world, etc. One could say that Ray is a real people person. He told me, I meet my passengers as clients, and they leave as friends. I want to adopt them and take them home with me. Next thing you know, Ray will own a bed & breakfast to accommodate all of his adoptees! Ray is also a firefighter, so if some sort of unfortunate incident happened to occur during your adventure, he would know exactly how to handle it. If by chance Ray isnt your driver, his other drivers have all been through rigorous training to provide exemplary (and safe) service. Along with the wine tours, Destiny safely chauffeurs clients to the airport, concerts, shopping sprees, weddings, bachelorette parties, sporting events, proms, anniversaries and just about any kind of special event imaginable. The limo (which comfortably seats eight passengers) is a spotless black 2006 Lincoln Tiffany Town Car, and it comes fully stocked with Champagne and other adult beverages, water, sodas and more. It features a state-of-the-art sound system, which will sooth your ears or rock your world, depending on your mood. Ray just added a silver Mercedes Benz S500 (equally equipped) to his fleet, so now clients have another luxurious transportation option. Your car is waiting let Destiny Wine Tours take you to your travel destination! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench LITTLE KNOWN FACT Destiny Wine Tours was founded in 2009 and Rays wife is credited with choosing the name for the company (great name, by the way!). FUN FACT Owner/Driver Ray Hanson says after driving a big fire truck for all those years, driving my limo is like driving a sports car! Not to worry, though, Ray is a true professional and pilots his limo with great care. PLAN AHEAD At this point, Destiny Wine Tours has only one limo in their fleet (but theyll be adding more soon), so make sure to book your trip well in advance! KUDOS FOR DESTINY WINE TOURS Five Star Rating on www.yelp.com! It doesnt get any better than that!
Destiny Wine Tours

Tours are available seven days a week 3295 Vichy Avenue, Napa (707) 254-0442 www.destinywinetours.com www.facebook.com/pages/ Destiny-Wine-Tours twitter: @destinywinetours
Mention this story and get 20% off your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours.
Northern Sonoma County

RUSSIAN RIVER, ALEXANDER VALLEY AND DRY CREEK VALLEY
TO MENDOCINO COAST TO EUREKA
AD CRO CKE R
Welcome to
Russian River, Alexander Valley And Dry Creek Valley

Wattle Creek
RIV ER
BRO
. RD
Pendleton Estate
ST I
IAN SS RU
E EK R D
FRITZ WINERY
RD .
FERRARI-CARANOS SEASONS OF THE VINEYARD

Camellia Cellars Chateau Felice Davis Family Downtown Wine Edmeades Front Street Wineries: Camellia Cellars Davis Family Sapphire Hill Holdredge Skewis Wines Hauck Cellars Hawley Tasting Room & Gallery Holdredge Draxton
SER GEY S
HER CR
101
J Rickards
CH IA I NT RD
Lake Sonoma
Sbragia Family Vineyards
DUT C
Silver Oak Cellars
Frick
Gustafson Family Vineyards

STEWARTS POINT
TO MENDOCINO COAST
AK IM
Zichichi
BR
IDG
Bella Preston
David Ca aro Yoakim Bridge Talty

E
Trione Vineyards FORCHINI & Winery FAMILY WINERIES Clos Du Bois Chateau KOKOMO Diana TRUETT TRATTORE Trentadue Amphora HURSTPech Papapietro IN Perry VERA
YS GE
YO
CA N Y
WAL
LIN G
Geyser Peak Pedroncelli

ON
Palmeri Route 128 Winery
Locals Meeker Mercury Terroirs
128
DeLorimier
Kachina
Hudson Street Wineries: Bluenose Wines Grove Street Owl Ridge Sadler-Wells Rocking Z Vineyard Teira J Keverson JCB Tasting Room Kendall-Jackson La Crema Longboard Vineyards Manzanita Creek Murphy-Goode Optima Pezzi King Portalupi Ramey Wine Cellars
Roadhouse Winery Russian River Wine Co. Sanglier Cellars Sapphire Hills Seghesio Selby Skewis Stark at Garagiste Healdsburg Stephen & Walker Thirty Four North Wine Merchant Thumbprint Toad Hollow Topel Waterfront Tasting Room: J. Keverson Christie Harts Desire Williamson
RIV
ER
Raymond Burr
Gpfrich Martorana Quivira
Merle
Michel-Schlumberger
D INE CREEK R
Mounts
Passalacqua
.
Peterson
E
SOU
Robert Young
PIN E FL AT
I ERV
RED
Unti
Rued
. RD
Francis Ford Coppola Teldeschi Mauritson
RD. LLE
WIN
Stryker Sonoma
LYTTON STATION RD.
A. Rafanelli
E ERT BRIDG MB LA
Lambert Bridge Vineyard of Pasterick Montemaggiore
VML
Hop Kiln Rochioli Arista
Dom Whitney Gracianna
WINDSOR
UPTick
RIVER RD
HEMBRE
LN.
John Tyler Wines by Bacigalupi Vineyard
B R OO KS R LAKEW D. OO D
J Wine
AR
AT A
Matrix
DE STSI WE
K HILL RD. CHAL
CR DRY
.D W
ERY
Hawkes
DRY CREEK
C RY
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Amista
Ridge/Lytton Springs Simi
Mazzocco
Jordan Stuhlmuller
HEALDSBURG
AL
RD. Stonestreet VAL. NDER Sausal Medlock Ames EXA
White Oak Soda Rock Johnson's Alexander Valley Wines Alexander Valley Vineyards Hanna
Wilson
Manzanita Creek Grove Street Michael Bernard DaVero MacPhail Family

KI NL
Everett Ridge
KR REE
D.
STEPHEN & WALKER

Saini
Field Stone
LANCASTER ESTATE
MAGNOLIA
Mill Creek
ARMIDA
ALDERBROOK DE LA MONTANYA
Twomey
Foppiano Acorn
CHRISTOPHER CREEK Limerick Lane

LIM ERIC
Vrit/Archipel
128
Starlite Vineyards
Williams Selyem
EY
Mietz
Christie
MUTT LYNCH RODNEY STRONG

R OLD
OS MIG LOS A
N.
Notables
Merriam
CHALK HILL
WY. DH OOSTARR RD EDW
RD.
T GH AU FR
NT ASA PLE
AVE.
D. DS R
KORBEL
Gary Farrell Moshin
Sonoma County RT BLVD O Airport AIRP
FULTO N RD
Armstrong Woods
Porter Creek
Thomas George Estates
Copain
Mueller
SHIL
O RD
SONOMA-CUTRER
SLUSSER
STARR RD
OL
D
D OO DW RE
101
Y. HW
Kendall-Jackson Wine Center

MA RK
O ARMSTRONG WO
WE
ST
SPR
ING
Russian Hill Estate
MIRAB
Monte Rio
Emtu Estate
VINE HILL RD.
RIV
LAGUNA RD.
TO BODEGA BAY
D RR
Hartford Family Winery

I
MARTIN RAY
EL RD.
Woodenhead Joseph Swan Pellegrini

W. OLIVET
R RD. RIVE
OLIVET
Tara Bella Harvest Moon Inman Family
Martinelli Battaglini
.
Old World Winery Novy Eric Kent Colagrossi Robert Rue Carol Shelton Siduri Vinoteca
COFF
PINER RD.
FOU
NTA
IN G
LE L
ROV
E PK
WY.
STEE
N.
EY
ELA EV CL
R MA
HOOK & LADDER

GUER NEVIL
TIN ELL
ND
Sunc DeLoach
AV
116
Marimar Torres
GRATON RD.
OCCIDENTAL RD.
LE RD
Sebastopol Vineyards Dutton-Gold eld Red Car Emeritus D&L Carinalli Taft Street Winery
WATER TRO UGH
Graton Ridge
R Lynmar Balletto Merry Edwards Peters Family & Occidental Road Cellars
I FRE
D.
Hanna
Freeman
OCCIDENTAL RD.
MILL STA.
TO HWY. 1
12
SEBASTOPOL
AVENUE
FULTON
Dehlinger
3rd ST
RD
ST MAIN .
Russian River Iron Horse River Road
Martini & Pratti
DARGENZIO
Sheldon/Krutz
ANCIENT OAKS CELLARS inside Corricks RAILROAD 4th ST SQUARE 4th ST TO LOST CANYON CELLARS OF SONOMA STATION 1870 VALLEY SONOMA
BOH NH EMIA WY
MONTGO MERY
101
TO SANTA ROSA/ SAN FRANCISCO
Claypool Cellars
Joseph Phelps
GO LD
RID GE
BURNSID
TO HWY. 101
Littorai Wines
Dry Creek Valley

Dry Creek wine country is one of the smallest enclosed American Viticultural Areas in the nation, only 16 miles long and two miles wide. With 9,300 acres of vineyard along this beautiful valleys floor, Dry Creek is a must see for first-time and veteran wine lovers. Dry Creek boasts 63 wineries producing a diverse range of wines from the famed Zinfandel to Bordeaux and even Mediterranean varietals. Dont let its small size fool you Dry Creek winemakers have been growing grapes and making great wines for more than 135 years! Things to Do Lake Sonoma Hatchery 3333 Skaggs Springs Road, Geyserville (707) 433-9483, www.parks.sonoma.net Located in the beautiful foothills of Northern Sonoma County, Lake Sonoma is surrounded by vineyards and land rich in history. Here, visitors can observe the operation of the hatchery and see displays which describe the life cycle of the coho salmon, steelhead and chinook. Dry Creek Olive Oil, 4791 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg (707) 431-7200, www.DryCreekOliveCompany.com Rooted in traditions as rich as the Dry Creek Soil, Dry Creek Olive Oil Company is your destination for artisan, very fine, extra-virgin olive oils. PICNIC FARE Oakville Grocery, 124 Matheson Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-3200, www.OakvilleGrocery.com Little Country Store with overflowing shelves and a deli chock full of handmade, gourmet picnic items, the Oakville Grocery is an absolute MUST. Dry Creek General Store (707) 433-4171, 3495 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg So much more than just a corner store, established in 1881, this is also a full-service deli and beer garden with live music occassionally, spectacular views and a wealth of information on wine tasting, tours and even fishing! Lodging Grape Leaf Inn 539 Johnson Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-8140, www.grapeleafinn.com A picturesque Queen Anne Victorian bed and breakfast, the Grape Leaf Inn seamlessly blends modern decor with timeless antiques. Gracious staff provide the best hospitality in this relaxing, romantic environment. Hope Merrill & Hope Bosworth B&B 21253 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-3356, www.hope-inns.com Once an early stage-coach stop, these now two strikingly restored Queen Anne Craftsman homes welcome you with open arms. Truly where wine and romance intertwine!
Celebrate the colors of spring/summer in the beautiful gardens at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery.
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Driving Time: 12 minutes From Fritz Underground Winery to Ferrari-Carano >2 miles to Dutcher Crossing >1 miles to Forchini 3.5 miles to Truett Hurst >1 miles to Family Wineries >1 miles to Kokomo Winery 0 miles to Trattore Family 0 miles to Dry Creek Vineyards 1.5 miles Total 8+ miles
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Fritz Underground Winery

Fritz Underground Winery is a wonderful place with fantastic wines, friendly, informative staff and unusual (think hobbit house-meets spaceship) architecture. Oh, and the views from the patio are stunning, too! Built in the late 1970s by namesake, Mr. Jay Arthur Fritz, the winery was way ahead of its time. It was built with sustainability in mind the three-level winery was built into the side of a hill, which naturally controls the interior temperatures. This three level construction also allows the winemaker to craft great wines with gravity flow, thus eliminating the need for using pumps to move the wines. Not using pumps equals using less electricity and results in wines without harsh tannins. Now run by Jays son, Clayton, the winery is still dedicated to sustainability and producing excellent wines. The tasting room staff is happy to discuss the history of the winery, the methods of sustainable winemaking used at Fritz and a myriad of other topics. The tasting room is bright and airy, with big glass doors and windows to let in the sunshine. A mirror spans one wall, enhancing the airy feel. A woodstove sits against one wall, creating a cozy, warm ambience on cool, rainy days. Lets talk about the wines I tasted a handful of wines during my visit and I loved every single one of them! Dont miss the dry Estate Ros and the Estate Reserve Zin theyre knockouts! This place is really worth visiting! The wines are great, the building is unique, the picnic area is picturesque and the staff is fabulous! Tell em the Wine Wench sent me. By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Special Tours & Tastings Underground cave tours are available Saturdays and Sundays by appointment. Wines Produced Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Zinfandel and Late Harvest Zinfandel. Fun Fact Wildlife abounds around the winery sharp-eyed visitors may catch sight of wild turkeys, quail, deer and other local denizens of the woods. Plan Ahead Bring a picnic to enjoy on the patio with your delicious Fritz wine.
Fritz Underground Winery

Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 24691 Dutcher Creek Road (Just off Dry Creek Road) Cloverdale, CA 95425 www.fritzwinery.com 1-800-418-9463 info@fritzwinery.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/fritzwinery Twitter: @fritzwinery
Mention Day Trips for Complimentary Tasting for 2
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Seasons of the Vineyard in Healdsburg
Ferrari-Carano in Dry Creek Valley
Ferrari-Carano
Inside Villa Fiore, the magnificent Italian-style villa that serves as Ferrari-Caranos hospitality center in Dry Creek Valley, guests will find a world of tasting opportunities. On the main floor wine shop and tasting room, guests may taste many new releases of Ferrari-Caranos Classic Wines, in addition to select wines, which are only available at the winery. Take your wine and browse the shops selection of wine country gifts and souvenirs, including wine and cookbooks, housewares, apparel and home dcor. Downstairs in the cellar, the luxurious Enoteca offers guests Ferrari-Caranos Limited Release and Reserve Wines. Try a flight of lovely Russian River Valley Chardonnays, or compare the two delicious PreVail Cabernet Sauvignons that hail from the winerys two mountain ranches in Alexander Valley. Guests are welcome to stroll the enclosed garden, which has a meandering path and foot bridges along a rippling stream that empty into fish-filled ponds. The garden has more than 2,000 species of trees and shrubs, all marked with informative identification tags, including some of the few successfully growing Portuguese cork trees in the area. Art lovers will also find bronze sculptures from world-renowned artists such as Dennis Smith, Douglas Van Howd and Jane DeDecker throughout the gardens. By Michelle J. Baker
VINEYARDS & WINERY
Did you know... Ferrari-Carano has a tasting bar and boutique in Healdsburg? Seasons of the Vineyard features wines from Ferrari-Carano and Lazy Creek Vineyards fantastic Anderson Valley Pinot Noir! Special Tours and Private Tastings Winery tours are free and by appointment, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. Or, try the ultimate-fun private tastings by appointment, six days a week, 11 a.m. or 2:30 p.m., price varies. Call (707) 433-6700 or email tourinformation@ferrari-carano.com. What to taste For Classic Wines, try Pinot Grigio, Fum Blanc, Chardonnay, Bella Luce (aromatic white blend), Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Siena. Limited Release and Reserve Wines are available in the Enoteca: Vineyard Select Chardonnays, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Trsor, PreVail West Face, PreVail Back Forty, and two dessert wines, Eldorado Gold and Eldorado Noir.
Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg www.ferrari-carano.com For Tours and Private Tastings, call (707) 433-6700 Open Wednesday - Sunday 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. 113 Plaza Street, Healdsburg (707) 431-2222 Look for them on Facebook and Twitter!
Seasons of the Vineyard
Mention this ad to receive one Classic Wine Tasting with the purchase of one Classic Wine Tasting at regular price.
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Dutcher Crossing
Dutcher Crossing Winery has everything a wine-loving visitor could hope for delicious, reasonably priced wines, a beautiful tasting room staffed with friendly and knowledgeable employees, a gorgeous picnic area with stunning views of Dry Creek Valley and a winery dog to welcome you. Lets start outside you pull into the parking lot and notice the beautiful landscaping surrounding the brown, barn-like building that is the winery and tasting room. A flagstone path leads you through a riot of colorful flowers to a breezeway that separates the winery from the tasting room. Glass doors provide a view into the barrel room and winery. Most likely, youll be greeted by Dutchess, a sweet, tail-wagging yellow Labrador Retriever, owned by Dutcher Crossing Winerys Proprietor, Debra Mathy. The tasting room is large, bright and airy, with high ceilings, glossy wood floors and tasteful dcor. A vintage high-wheeled bicycle (used as the winerys logo) sits against a wall, beckoning to be ridden (well, I was tempted to try to ride it, but I restrained myself). A selection of non-wine items is available for browsing as you sip and stroll around the room. During the week, there is a $5 tasting fee (waived for wine club members) to sample a variety of six wines, and on weekends a $10 reserve tasting is available as well. Winemaker Kerry Damskey does a wonderful job crafting these wines! I tasted a few wines during my visit and they were all excellent! Taste some great wines, pet a friendly dog, relax and stay a while! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench PLAN AHEAD The picnic area is lovely and its views of the Dry Creek Valley are breathtaking. There are six picnic tables under a wisteria-covered arbor. The colorful, fragrant landscaping and manicured lawns will make you want to kick off your shoes and stay a while. VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Port ANOTHER FUN FACT Winemaker, Kerry Damskey is known as the Indiana Jones of the wine world. LITTLE KNOWN FACT Dutcher Crossings self-appointed greeter and mascot Dutchess is a rescue dog. Owner, Debra Mathy transported her all the way back from Taiwan!
Dutcher Crossing Winery

Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 8533 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg www.dutchercrossingwinery.com (707) 431-2700 Look for Dutcher Crossing on Facebook. 15% off Visa Signature cardholders + complimentary tasting
Inquire to schedule a private tasting of our current releases and a selection of delicious local cheeses.
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Forchini Vineyards & Winery

Just north of Healdsburg, a few miles out Dry Creek Road is a very special place, where youll feel like part of the family. Turn at the Bacchus sign, drive up the narrow, winding, rosemary-edged driveway and youve arrived at Forchini Vineyards & Winery. Forchini Vineyards & Winery is a family-run winery that produces only estate grown and bottled wines. Jim and Anita Forchini are the owners and Andrew Forchini is the vineyard manager. The building, surrounding picnic area and vineyards look as if they are right out of an Italian landscape stucco walls, tile roofs, splashing fountains, flower gardens and vineyardstriped hills delight the senses. Just wait until you taste the wines then your senses will be delighted even further! Once inside the main building, you feel as if you are in someones comfortable home. There is a large dining room, with a table ready to serve eight, a fully appointed kitchen, an office and the tasting room, which is decorated in warm tones, with faux-painted walls, wood flooring and a granite-topped oak bar. Behind the bar, a portrait of Bacchus, the God of wine, is the central focus of the tasting room. The wines at Forchini are very, very good they are continually garnering medals and accolades. For example, their 2008 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir recently scored 94 points/Highly Recommended/Chairmans Award Finalistat the 2012 Ultimate Wine Challenge in New York. You really should visit this beautiful, comfortable, delicious winery! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Fun Facts Forchini Vineyards has been growing premium varietal wine grapes since 1971. There are two properties the 67-acre Dry Creek Bench and the 24-acre Russian River Terrace. Theres a lovely outdoor tasting garden surrounded by vineyards Some of their Zinfandel vines are more than 100 years old! Varietals Produced Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Bordeaux and Tuscan Style Red Blends
Forchini Vineyards & Winery

Open for Tasting from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday-Sunday and by appointment 5141 Dry Creek Road Healdsburg, CA 95448 (707) 431-8886 www.forchini.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/forchiniwinery
Mention Day Trips and receive 2 for 1 tasting and 10% discount .
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Truett Hurst Winery

Set in the heart of Dry Creek Valley is a special estate called Truett Hurst. As you drive in, the sheep and goat pasture is the first indication that this is not in any way your average winery. Vineyards are flanked by habitat islands for birds and beneficial insects, and there are bluebird and owl boxes. Maintaining biodiversity and habitat are part of the farming philosophy here. Their commitment to responsible stewardship of this property is matched by the passion with which they handcraft award-winning Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Pinot Noir. The wines are made by fermenting grapes in small, opentop stain fermenters. The grapes are punched down during fermentation, rather than pumped over, allowing for gentle extraction of color and flavor components, while avoiding bitter tannins. Then wines are barrel aged in approximately 30% new French oak, until the flavors and structure of the wine perfectly balance. The result: big, bold, textured wines with lots of spice and jammy fruit. You can savor these wines in one of the most comfortable and relaxing wineries in the valley. You have a choice of Adirondack chairs down by the creek where you may see Steelhead or Coho salmon. Or hang out on the patio and listen to music while enjoying the sublime scenery of Dry Creek, or enjoy a picnic or a slow lunch in the olive grove. If this is not enough, youll always be served by the friendly wine pourers who will make you feel right at home in this inviting tasting room. Varietals Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Pinot Noir Plan Ahead On most Saturdays they have live music from some fine local musicians who deliver everything from a jazz-swing vibe to a third-world groove to Americana and some classic tunes from the 50s, 60s and 70s. There may even be something from the grill to munch on while you take it all in. Special Tasting Tell them in the tasting room that Luci the black goat sent you and you can taste the special Zinfandel thats named after her. Fun Fact Relax and drink your wine in one of Adirondack chairs down by the creek! A 60-year-old olive grove, a four-acre chefs garden and the beautiful Dry Creek (which, by the way, is never dry) are all part of the estate.
Truett Hurst Winery

Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 5610 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg (707) 433-9545 www.truetthurst.com Follow Truett Hurst Winery on Facebook and Twitter.
Mention Day Trips and receive a complimentary tasting valued at $5.
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Family Wineries
Interested in visiting with some winemakers in person? Stop by at Family Wineries in Dry Creek Valley, where most weekends youll find one or two of the winemaker/owners behind the bar, ready to pour wine and answer all of your wine questions. In fact, Family Wineries is the only local cooperative tasting room fully owned by its member wineries. A visit to Family Wineries of Dry Creek Valley is just like making six stops at six different boutique, award-winning wineries without all the extra driving, map untangling and time. Its the perfect place to stop to satisfy the wine preferences of everyone in your group - the red wine person, the white wine person, and even the sweet wine person! Thats right, Family Wineries has a separate sweet wine tasting menu featuring treats ranging from Moscato to Chocolate Port. On the regular list, theres always at least 20 wines available for tasting, including interesting and hard-to-find wines like Sangiovese, Ros, Grenache, Viognier, Tempranillo and much more. Family Wineries is also a great place to stock up on gifts and souvenirs to bring back home. The tasting room is loaded with fun, unique wine-related accessories, housewares, books, puzzles and food products ranging from barbecue sauces to mustards and marinades (many of which are available to sample). And dont forget to bring along a few sandwiches so you can take advantage of the picnic grounds just a few paces from the tasting room. The picnic area is neatly landscaped and offers a magnificent view across the floor of Dry Creek Valley. Adjacent to the picnic area is a Bocce court available for use by customers of Family Wineries (call ahead to reserve the court on weekends). By Michelle Baker
Six family wineries in one tasting room Collier Falls Vineyards Dashe Cellars Forth Vineyards Lago di Merlo Vineyards and Winery Mietz Cellars Philip Staley Vineyards Varietals Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chocolate Port, Dessert Wines, Grenache, Moscato, Petite Sirah, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Primitivo, Red Blends, Rose, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Viognier, White Blends, White Port and Zinfandel Fun Fact Family Wineries is the only true small winery cooperative tasting room in Sonoma County owned by its member wineries.
Family Wineries of Dry Creek Valley

Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 4791 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg 1-888-433-6555 ext. 1 www.familywines.com
www.facebook.com/FamilyWineriesDryCreek
Mention Day Trips article and receive complimentary tasting with purchase of wine and 15% off purchase of six or more bottles.
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Kokomo Winery
A tip for the wise wine taster do NOT stroll into Kokomo Winerys tasting room singing that Beach Boys song. You know, the one that goes Aruba, Jamaica, oh I wanna take ya, to Bermuda, Bahama The friendly, knowledgeable staff at Kokomo Winery has heard that one before. Several times. And the winery is named after Kokomo, Indiana, where Owner/Winemaker, Erik Miller grew up, not some fictional beach town in Brian Wilsons head. Be cool. Restrain yourself, and you will be treated to one of the best tasting experiences in wine country. Kokomo Winerys tasting room is part of the winery, so the sights, sounds and smells of a working small winery are the backdrop to your visit. The overall vibe here is laid-back, casually hip and genuine. The floors are utilitarian concrete, the tasting bar is made of wooden planks laid across wine barrels and big stacks of wine barrels behind the bar create a warm, rustic atmosphere. T-shirts emblazoned with Peace, Love & Pinot and Inspiration Through Fermentation are casually displayed on the barrels behind the bar. Owner/ Winemaker, Erik Miller, and Assistant Winemaker, Josh Bartels, are making some fantastic wines! I tasted a few during my visit and loved every wine I tasted. By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench
Enjoy a truly authentic winery experience, where the tasting room and cellar come together. Here, the tasting room, located in the working cellar, provides a completely visceral experience. Enjoy the actual sounds, smells, sights and, of course, taste of this boutique winery. Visitors are encouraged to purchase wine and relax at one of the many outside picnic tables, or grab a set of balls and play a little bocce. Owner/Winemaker Erik Millers business partner in the winery is Randy Peters, a fourth generation Sonoma County farmer. Randy farms world-class wine grapes in Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley and Dry Creek Valley. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Grenache Ros With 90+ point Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Grenache Ros wines from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast, Kokomo Winery is cementing its place among Sonoma Countys premiere boutique wineries by producing a wide range of varietals and doing each one as well as the next!
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Open daily 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 4791 Dry Creek Road at Timber Crest Farms, Healdsburg www.kokomowinery.com | 707-433-0200 facebook: www.facebook.com/kokomowinery
Kokomo Winery
Mention this story for complimentary tasting for two adventurous souls. Tell em The Wine Wench sent you!
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Trattore Estate Wines and Dry Creek Olive Company

Even as a young boy, Tim Bucher, owner of Trattore Estate Wines and the Dry Creek Olive Oil Company, was awed by the beauty of the Dry Creek Valley. Bucher, who was born and raised on his familys dairy farm in the neighboring Russian River Valley, would accompany his father to help manage the cattle they grazed in Dry Creek and tell his father that one day, he would live in Dry Creek Valley. At the same time, young Bucher was discovering his fascination for tractors and all things mechanical. From the time he was eight years old, he would repair the tractors on the family dairy farm. His entrepreneurial spirit was born early, too - Bucher bought his first two acres of land in Dry Creek Valley when he was just 16 years old, and began making wine when he was 17. Buchers mechanical aptitude and entrepreneurial spirit led him first to a graduate degree from Stanford University, then to a successful career in the Silicon Valley. But Dry Creek Valley was always calling to him. The Bucher family eventually returned to Dry Creek Valley and in 2006 started the Dry Creek Olive Oil Company, which quickly became a hit with locals and foodies for its estate, blended and flavored olive oils. In 2011, they launched Trattore Estate Wines, featuring wines produced from the familys 40-acre Dry Creek Valley estate just up the road from the tasting room. By Michelle J. Baker Varietals Zinfandel, Grenache, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Mourvedre, Viognier, Roussanne and Marsanne Fun Facts Trattore (tractor in Italian) and Dry Creek Olive Oil have a combined tasting room in Dry Creek Valley. Visitors can taste through a variety of award-winning olive oils (including Mandarin Orange, Meyer Lemon and Lime) and vinegars (including pomegranate and barrel-aged balsamic), in addition to the criticallyacclaimed wines from Trattore. Mill tours at Dry Creek Olive Company and estate tours of Trattore Estate Wines are available by appointment!
Trattore Estate Wines Dry Creek Olive Company

Open daily from 11 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. 4791 Dry Creek Road Healdsburg, CA 95448 (707) 431-7200 www.trattorewines.com drycreekolivecompany.com
Mention Day Trips and receive $10 off a purchase of $75 or more of wine and olive oil.
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Dry Creek Vineyard

A visit to the Dry Creek Valley would not be complete without a visit to Dry Creek Vineyard, where a pioneering young entrepreneur named Dave Stare helped put the Dry Creek Valley on the world wine map nearly 40 years ago. When Dave arrived in Dry Creek Valley, the land surrounding him was planted primarily to hops and prunes. But Dave saw the great potential in planting the same grape varietals that made world class wines in the Loire Valley of France, where Dave had traveled extensively and found much inspiration. And so he planted Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc, a variety he was told would never grow in the Dry Creek Valley. Today, Dry Creek Vineyard still produces Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc, plus a whole lot more. Whats great about their lineup is that youll find both great value wines for everyday drinking, and some amazing treasures to stash away in the cellar or open on weekends, holidays and other special occasions. In the tasting room youre likely to find wide selection of wines available to sample, including the kind of old vine and single-vineyard Zinfandels Dry Creek Valley is best known for. For those who love a big red wine, Dry Creek Vineyard makes a pair of phenomenal red blends. The Meritage is a deep, dark and concentrated Bordeaux-style blend that is a steal at $30 retail; and The Mariner ($45), which is even more powerful and particularly ageworthy. By Michelle J. Baker Fun FactS Did you know that Dry Creek Vineyard was the first winery in California to put the term meritage (meaning merit of the vineyard combined with heritage of the vine) on a wine label? Dave and his winery, Dry Creek Vineyard, have established many firsts on the way to becoming one of Dry Creek Valleys shining stars. In fact, Dry Creek Vineyard was the first new winery in the Dry Creek Valley after prohibition. They were also the first to produce a Fum Blanc in Sonoma County; the first to use the Dry Creek Valley appellation on a wine label; and the first to champion Zinfandel as a world-class varietal. Dont forget to pack a picnic lunch or grab a sandwich to-go on the way, as Dry Creek Vineyard has a sprawling and shady picnic area for guests where you can enjoy a bottle of wine with your lunch and free WiFi, too! What to Taste Chenin Blanc, Fume Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, dessert wines and more...
Dry Creek Vineyard

Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 3770 Lambert Bridge Road, Healdsburg www.drycreekvineyard.com 1-800-864-9463 Follow on Facebook and Twitter
Mention this article and receive a complimentary tasting for 2 and 10% off any wine purchase.
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South of Healdsburg
Wine tasting just south of downtown Healdsburg, on the east or west side of Highway 101, youll instantly feel miles away. Westside Road is slow and winding, filled with redwood trees, heritage oaks with moss beards and famous vineyards. Wineries on the east side of Highway 101 specialize in Pinots, cool-climate Syrahs and that famous Zinfandel. Here, some of the finest winemaking and culinary talents in all of Northern California are represented. Should you wish to slow down and experience wine country up-close-and-personal, just south of Healdsburg is the place to go. Things to Do Dragonfly, 425 Westside Road, Healdsburg (707) 433-3739, www.dragonflyfloral.com By appointment only, this is a unique botany and flower-lovers destination. They can custom pick and arrange flowers. Wohler Bridge 9765 Wohler Road, Forestville A true Sonoma County landmark, Wohler Bridge is one of the few old-old-OLD bridges left in California. This steel truss bridge crosses the Russian River at quite a beautiful spot, too.
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Russian River Valley Produce 400 Grapevine Lane, Healdsburg, (707) 433-7933 A four-acre, family-owned ranchwith top-notch vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers sure to brighten any palate and table. Excellent farm tours by appointment. Riverfront Regional Park 7821 Eastside Road, Healdsburg, (707) 565-2041 Once an old quarry, Riverfront Regional Park is now home to two sparkling lakes perfect for swimming or hike a trail through serene redwood groves! Powells Sweet Shoppe 322 Center St., Healdsburg (707) 431-2784, www.powelsss.com An old time, old fashioned candy, ice cream and sweets shop sure to delight your child within! This is the first shop for Powells now beloved franchise.
DaVero, 766 Westside Road, Healdsburg (707) 431-8000, www.DaVero.com Guided tastings of wines, olive oils and jams as well as fresh produce. Its also a great spot for a picnic, or just to wander the field. Check the website for hands-on cooking clases. Mill Street Antiques 44 Mill Street, Healdsburg, (707) 433-8409 Take the time to seek out the treasures here theres sure to be something for everyone! 35 Dealers in 10,000 sq. ft.
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Lodging Madrona Manor 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg 1-800-258-4003, www.MadronaManor.com A world-class destination for guests seeking gracious service and luxurious accommodations in the heart of wine country. Oh yes... Rated #1 in Napa & Sonoma by Travel & Leisure... Need we say more? Farmhouse Inn 7871 River Road, Forestville (707) 887-3300, www. FarmhouseInn.com Representing the finest level of Sonoma inns, restaurants and Spas, sublime guestrooms, farm-fresh food, and seasonal body treatments come together for one unforgettable experience. Country Garden Lodging, Healdsburg (707) 431-8630, www.hcountrygardens.com Three fully-equipped, affordable vacation homes located on a 25-acre wine country estate boasting spectaculargardens. Near charming downtown Healdsburg. DINING Farmhouse Inn Restaurant 7871 River Road, Forestville (707) 887-3300, www.farmhouseinn.com Tucked into one of the smallest, lovely towns in wine country, the Farmhouse Inn boasts an exquisite restaurant. Each plate by Chef Litke tells the story of Sonomas diverse agriculture and artisan producers. Giorgis Restaurant 25 Grant Street, Healdsburg, (707) 433-1106 Great family-style Italian restaurantpasta and handthrown pizzas full bar, open late and food to go. Gilardis Delicatessen 810 Den Beste, Windsor, (707) 838-9869 Certainly a vine above the rest! Feast on homemade lasagna and freshly baked sourdough garlic breads.
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Driving Time: 16 minutes From De La Montanya to Armida Winery >1 mile to Alderbrook 2 miles to Christopher Creek 3 miles to Mutt Lynch 0 miles to Rodney Strong >2 miles Total 7.5 miles
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De La Montanya Estate Vineyards

De La Montanya Estate Vineyards was established in 1995 with the planting of the Home Ranch in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Eight years later, in the summer of 2003, owners Tina and Dennis De La Montanya opened the winery and tasting room just five minutes from downtown Healdsburg. At present, De La Montanya has a total of 270 acres of vineyards planted throughout Sonoma and Lake counties. The appellations include Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley and Red Hills in Lake County, and from these vineyards De La Montanya has been known to make up to 18 different wines, ranging in size from one barrel (24 cases) to 15 barrels (350 cases), truly specializing in small-lot winemaking. The tasting room and winery at De La Montanya Vineyards is known affectionately as The Barn, which is located among the Felta Creek vineyard and apple orchard. The Barn is where guests experience wine the way it was intended to be, with good friends and family in a welcoming, fun and beautiful environment. Just outside the tasting room is an outdoor kitchen complete with a pizza oven, a gorgeous garden picnic area and even a bocce court. De La Montanya Estate wines are only available to wine club members and through the tasting room. While the wine business can be very serious, we strive to make it a fun experience for our guests and wine club members, says Dennis De La Montanya. We like to have a connection between all of us at the winery and our guests, which is what keeps them coming back each year. By Mike Hyland VARIETALS Merlot, Red Blend, Late Harvest, Tempranillo, Viognier, Gerwrztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Primitivo CHECK OUT The latest PinUp Collectors Edition No. 7 includes the 2009 Cabaret and 2009 Desire. Tastefully photographed in the winery and embodying the high spirited lust for life found in Wine Country, the PinUp wines have become a cult favorite. Each year, our female wine club members of all ages take their chances in a random drawing to be featured on the PinUp label. The PinUp wines are available only at the tasting room. STAY A WHILE The Little Yellow Cottage in the middle of Felta Creek Vineyards, just a short walk from the tasting room, is a two bedroom cottage, a private and cozy retreat for one or two couples. The cottage is equipped with a full modern kitchen and dining area plus a redwood deck with spa and much more. The ultimate Wine Country get-away.
De La Montanya Estate Vineyards

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 999 Foreman Lane, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Westside Road to Felta Road, left under the bridge hard to find, but worth the effort
(707) 433-3711 | www.dlmwine.com
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Armida Winery
Tucked away on Healdsburgs Westside Road, one of wine countrys best leisure drives, is where youll find Armida Winery estate. Not your typical winery, its a hidden gem along a rolling hillside, where the views are equally as impressive as the wines being served. The estate is a patchwork of vineyards, trees and hills a casual place to hang out with good people, good friends, and good wine. A local favorite, Armida Winery pours awesome wine at reasonable prices, in a kick-back atmosphere. Whether youre an experienced wine connoisseur or a newbie, youll feel right at home when visiting. At the peak of the rambling, scenic entrance to Armida Winery, youll be met with a pop of architecture at the top of the drive, in the form of an unusually dome-shaped tasting facility. Even the parking lot is a destination, with sweeping views of rolling hills, vineyards, and the valley. You may never leave your car! Start your visit in the tasting room to sample Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Sirah, Gewrztraminer, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Armidas estate blend Il Campo. There, youll get hands-on education of the wines being served, with a few jokes and laughs thrown in. Dont be shy if youre a newbie taster, be sure to say so! These folks want you to find a wine that zings your palate, and have fun doing it. After youve chosen a bottle of their best wine, relax on the expansive deck overlooking the serene pond and fountain area. Bring a picnic, because there are plenty of tables for guests. You can also score cheese and other snacks for purchase in the tasting room to pair with your new favorite vino. Before you leave, be sure to ask about Armida Winerys wine clubs you will receive members-only discounts on wines shipped right to your door! By Denise Olliffe Fun Fact Armida recently won Double Gold and Best of Class at the 2012 Sonoma County Harvest Fair for their 2011 Russian River Valley Chardonnay Bocce anyone? Bring a picnic and take a break from wine tasting with a game of bocce beside the pond (especially fun after a few glasses of wine). If youre visiting Capitola Dont miss Armidas cozy, intimate tasting room in Capitola Village! Located just a stones throw from the ocean, it is surrounded by awardwinning restaurants, artisan shops and art galleries. Special Events Armida hosts lively events at the winery throughout the year, including participating in Passport to Dry Creek Valley weekend, Wine Road events, release parties and more. Check their website for dates.
Armida Winery
Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2201 Westside Road, Healdsburg (707) 433-2222 www.armida.com Facebook & Twitter
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Alderbrook Winery
When you visit this pretty winery in the rural area not far from the town of Healdsburg, you can remember the sincere words of their tasting room manager: Were laid back, so come on in, try our wines and feel free to stay a while. Since 1981, when the winery was founded, Alderbrook has been offering a variety of wines that now have a legion of faithful followers. The setting is tranquil, with white fences, a 60-acre estate vineyard and a farmhouse-like tasting room with white bleached-wood walls, wood floors, a high ceiling and a fireplace at one end of the casual, comfortable room. Though the property is just minutes from Highway 101 (which makes it about an hour from the Golden Gate), it is a world apart. Theres a spacious porch in the front, and a long deck in the back facing a large lawn. If you care to picnic, feel free, enjoying you meal or snack with a glass or a bottle from their collection of wines. They will even loan you glassware as you pair one of their Zinfandels, the Chardonnay, a Pinot Noir or a Syrah with your picnic. Inside, at the two L-shaped tasting bars, with their polished wood tops, youll learn about what it means to have a winery and grapes sourced from two of the most famous regions in all of Sonoma: Dry Creek and the Russian River Valleys. And, to learn this, you will be able to taste the difference and the triumphs in your glass. Can you imagine of a better way to learn? By Charles Neave Varietals Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Carignane, Zinfandel and Zinfandel Port Dates While the winery was founded in 1981, it was in 2001 that the famous Terlato Family Vineyards took over the property and led it to the prominence it now enjoys. In fact, some of the wines, such as the Block 9 Syrah and the Chardonnay, have the Terlato name on the label. Fun Facts Complimentary Pedicab service to and from the winery to the Healdsburg Plaza, just call the tasting room to arrange for pickup. Live music every Sunday from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Dogs are very welcome at Alderbrook. Come in for a button that says, We Dogs @ Alderbrook. Other Tastings There is a self-serve bar where you can sample mustards, oils, vinegars , chocolate and caramel sauces. Private events Contact the winery for information on hosting your own event at this scenic winery.
Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2306 Magnolia Drive, Healdsburg (707) 433-5987 or 1-800-405-5987 www.alderbrook.com
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Alderbrook Winery
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Christopher Creek Winery

A small, family-owned winery, Christopher Creek, in the heart of the Russian River Valley, has a long history of producing award-winning, estate-bottled, wines. Located on Limerick Lane in Healdsburg, the winery and tasting room is situated on 11 acres in the Russian River AVA with another 27 acres planted on Bradford Mountain in the Dry Creek appellation. The first vines were planted more than 50 years ago with the winery opening shortly thereafter in 1974. Those first vines are still producing exceptional wines and may still be enjoyed in the warm and rustic tasting room as Reserve Petite Sirah and Reserve Syrah. With a growing interest in Rhne style wines, Christopher Creek offers the opportunity to taste wines produced from old vines of Russian River Valley, where the climate is cooler, including some of the best Syrah, Petite Sirah and Pinot Noir in the area. Coming on board recently is winemaker Mike Brunson, a third-generation Sonoma County resident with more than 20 years of vineyard and winery experience. Prior to joining Christopher Creek, Mike was winemaker and vineyard manager at Michel-Schlumberger for 16 years. He has produced award-winning wines from Pinot Blanc to Cabernet Sauvignon and brings passion, experience and a workingmans knowledge of how to go from grape to glass. By Mike Hyland RELAX Guests are always welcome to enjoy a glass of wine poolside, or bring a picnic lunch to enjoy the patio overlooking the rolling vineyards, creek and surrounding vistas. VIP Treatment Call ahead for a VIP tour and tasting with owners/ winemakers. VARIETALS In addition to their noteworthy Petite Sirah, Syrah and Cabernet Franc, additional wines in the portfolio include Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Viognier, Port and Petite Sirah Port. MORE AWARDS The latest in a long line of award-winning wines include Best in Show and Sweepstakes Award for the 2008 Petite Sirah at the Riverside (California) International Wine Competition. At the same event, the 2008 Dry Creek Zinfandel also won a unanimous gold medal and the Chairmans Award. The Cab Franc recently received Double Gold, Best of Cass at the 2012 Harvest Fair.
Christopher Creek Winery

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

Located just south of Healdsburg on lovely Limerick Lane is a very special place a place of delicious, world-class wines, rustic, totally unpretentious surroundings, friendly folks and wagging tails. If you are an animal lover like me, you simply must visit Mutt Lynch. The whole atmosphere at Mutt Lynch is one of delicious fun, with a bit of mischief thrown in. The wines are seriously good, but the folks at Mutt Lynch dont take themselves too seriously. Theres not an ounce of pretension here, folks! The building that houses the winery and its tasting room is an old, ivy-covered barn, complete with huge sliding doors in front. Once inside, theres no doubt that youre inside a winery stacks of barrels and t-bins, along with shiny stainless steel fermentation tanks line one long wall. The Mutt Lynch tasting room, so to speak, is located in a corner of the winery. The tasting bar is a couple of wooden planks set atop two upended wine barrels. Cute, dog-themed t-shirts are displayed on the wall and more than likely, there will be a cute, tail-wagging dog or three to supervise your tasting experience with Mutt Lynchs friendly, knowledgeable staff. At Mutt Lynch they measure success in two ways: by the number of charities they help and the number of awards they garner for their winemaking. In the past 12 months, Mutt Lynch has assisted more than 80 animal organizations. The winery was also recently named the 2013 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competitions Label Sweepstake and Best of Class/Series for its mbf (Mans Best Friend) series of wine the second consecutive year they have the won this prestigious award! Be sure to visit this unforgettable place and tell them The Wine Wench sent you! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench VARIETALS PRODUCED Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Primitivo, Syrah, Zinfandel, Chardonnnay and Sauvignon Blanc FUN FACT Mutt Lynch donates a portion of annual revenues to support local animal rescue organizations, including Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, Sonoma Humane Society, Green Dog Rescue Project and PAWS/Petchitecture.
Mutt Lynch Winery

Open daily by appointment Wednesday Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 602 Limerick Lane, Healdsburg www.muttlynchwinery.com (707) 942-6180 Follow Mutt Lynch Winery Facebook: www.facebook.com/MuttLynchWinery Twitter: @muttlynchwinery Yelp: www.yelp.com/biz/ mutt-lynch-winery-healdsburg
Free tasting and logo glass with mention of this ad!
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Rodney Strong Vineyards

There are few places in wine country more memorable than The Green a luxurious expanse of softly rolling lawn that surrounds center stage at Rodney Strong Vineyards. It represents the perfect spot from which to savor the marvelous wines the winery offers, not to mention its a great place to enjoy fresh, local artisan picnic fare and revel in the beautiful Sonoma County sun. Rodney Strong was a trailblazer in the Russian River Appellation who recognized this area as an ideal grapegrowing region. He realized the soil, climate and topography here combined in a way to produce the conditions necessary to make world-class wines. All of the Rodney Strong wines come from grapes grown exclusively in Sonoma Countys finest appellations: Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, Chalk Hill and Sonoma Coast. He was also one of the first to plant Pinot Noir in the Russian River Valley and the first to produce and release a Chalk Hill Chardonnay. Currently available for tasting is their luscious Char donnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Symmetry, a red meritage wine. Since 1989, the Klein family, who has been involved in California agriculture for four generations, has privately owned the winery. Their passion for sustainable farming practices, solar power and other green business practices led them to become Sonoma Countys first carbon neutral winery. Ronda Giangreco Good to Know The winery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and guided winery tours are offered daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. They feature both complimentary and paid tastings. Summer Concert series Amazing wines, breathtaking views and concerts with contemporary artists theres no better way to enjoy a Sonoma County summer than at Rodney Strongs annual Summer Concert Series presented in association with Omega Events. Surrounded by acres of beautiful vineyards, guests enjoy top performers while picnicking at the winerys intimate concert venue, The Green. Fun Fact Depending on the season, you can witness vines being pruned, the sugar-testing of grapes or receive a crash course on evaluating wines right out of the barrel.
Rodney Strong Vineyards

Open Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 11455 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg For more information, call (707) 431-1533 or visit www.rodneystrong.com.
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Downtown Healdsburg
Things to Do Powells Sweet Shoppe 322 Center St., Healdsburg (707) 431-2784, www.powelsss.com An old time, old fashioned candy, ice cream and sweets shop sure to delight your child within! This is the first shop for Powells now beloved franchise. Raven Theater 115 North Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-6335, www.raventheater.org Entertainment that is beyond a moments blip of distraction. Enjoy wonderful performances and expand your world. Wine Carriage (707) 849-8989, www.thewinecarriage.com Exclusive 5-mile route through the vineyards, premium wine tastings at three award-winning boutique wineries, sumptuous gourmet lunch, exclusive wine cave tour, barrel tasting Segway Tours (707) 953-3477 www.segwayofhealdsburg.com A fun way to tour Healdsburg. Getaway Adventures Santa Rosa, (707) 568-3040 www.getawayadventures.com Healdsburg Sip n Cycle: Visit the sites and learn local wine facts throughout downtown Healdsburg and into the vineyards on this innovative, healthy tour! Tours include a picnic and bocce. Sonoma County Wine Library 139 Piper Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-3772 www.sonomalibrary.org/wine The library has more than 5,000 books dealing with all aspects of making wine, some of them date even back to 1512! Knowledgeable librarians are on hand to help guide you. Veterans Memorial Beach, 13839 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg (707) 433-1625 Truly one of Healdsburgs most favorite riverside beaches! Bring a picnic, kick off your shoes, or even borrow an inner tube. Nothing to do here but relax, breathe deeply and listen to the river roll on by.
Healdsburg is charming. Every brick, every flower box, every elegant shop and eclectic gallery, every five-star restaurant and cozy cafe on every single corner speak to this towns genuine individuality and down-to-earth-treasures. Downtown Healdsburg may be surrounded by bucolic rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, but around this age-old square, its hard to imagine being anywhere else more delightful. No matter what time of year, Healdsburg is a town for every season. Bosworth & Son General Store 21060 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-3463, www.bosworthandson.com Once a mortuary and even a buggy store the buggy paint still stains the floor Bosworth & Son General Store is an old-fashioned store meeting the Westerninspired needs of todays customer. Healdsburg Ridge Hiking Trail Entry gate at Arabian Way and Bridle Path. One of Sonomas favorite nature preserves, take the Ridge Hiking Trail to the Fox Pond Run and Fox Pond Overlook. A wonderful place to get some fresh air and exercise in wine country! (No pets.) LodginG Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza 112 Matheson Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-6991, www.healsburginn.com Built in 1901, this classic California inn is located on the Healdsburg Plaza. From summer concerts to holiday tree lightings, the towns best events take place right here. Hotel Healdsburg 25 Matheson Street, Healdsburg 1-800-889-7188, www.hotelhealdsburg.com Chic, beautifully appointed Hotel Healdsburg is located on the historic square and is one of the premier Wine Country luxury lodgings in all Sonoma County. Grape Leaf Inn 539 Johnson Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-8140, www.grapeleafinn.com A picturesque Queen Anne Victorian bed and breakfast, the Grape Leaf Inn seamlessly blends modern decor with timeless antiques. Gracious staff provide the best hospitality in this relaxing, romantic environment. Belle de Jour Inn 16276 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg (707) 431-9777, www.belledujourinn.com A single-story Italiante built in the 1870s on six acres of hilltop overlooking rolling hilltops and valleys. Hope Merril & Hope Bosworth B&B 21253 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-3356, www.hope-inns.com Once an early stage-coach stop, these now two strikingly restored Queen Anne Craftsman homes welcome you with open arms. Truly where wine and romance intertwine!
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HEALDSBURG PLAZA www.Healdsburg.com Geyserville Inn 21714 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-4343, www.GeyservilleInn.com First class accomodations at more affordable prices in the heart of wine country! Food Charlie Palmers Dry Creek Kitchen Hotel Healdsburg, 317 Healdsburg Avenue (707) 431-0330, www.charliepalmer.com Celebrating Sonomas pioneering wines and spirits, celebrated Chef Charlie Palmer takes the best of our farm-fresh produce and culinary cradle and infuses it with his passion and style. Jimtown Store 6706 Highway 128, Healdsburg (707) 433-1212, www.jimtown.com Literally tucked into the vineyards in the Jimtown store. For more than 100 years, Jimtown has provided Healdsburg with fresh baked goods, hot coffee, and local products. Linger over the eclectic American antiques and old-fashioned toys. Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria 21021 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 814-0111, www.diavolapizzeria.com A great stop for picnic items such as house-cured salumi and olives plus traditional Italian cooking including gourmet pizzas and delicicious pastas. Diavola uses the most locally available ingredients combined with centuries old recipes. Campo Fina 330 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg (707) 395-4640, www.campo-fina.com New hot spot in Healdsburg wine, beer, wood-fired pizza and outdoor bocce! Hoffman House Restaurant 21712 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville (707) 857-3264 www.hoffmanhousegeyserville.com Built more than 100 years ago, this cafe serves healthy breakfast and lunch with striking views of the majestic mountains. Seasonal dinners, call first. Scopa 109 A Plaza St. (on Healdsburg Plaza), Healdsburg (707) 433-5282, www.scopahealdsburg.com Rustic Italian fare, a local favorite Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar 344 Center Street, Healdsburg Reservations recommended, (707) 473-0946 Dinner served daily, lunch Monday-Fridays Zin features delicious seasonal cuisine with produce grown especially for them. Wine industry locals often gather here for nourishment and shop talk.
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Chalk Hill Estate

Perhaps no other winery captures the casual luxury of Sonoma County better than Chalk Hill Estate. Founded nearly four decades ago, this spectacular property features 1,300 acres of wilderness areas interspersed with 300 acres of vineyards, winery, hospitality center, culinary garden, residence, stables, equestrian pavilion, sports fields, fishing and swimming ponds, and guest houses. From the top of the Estate visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Russian River Valley to the west and the Mayacamas Mountains to the east. The property features 13 soil types ranging from ancient alluvial deposits to young volcanic soils strewn with rocks and boulders. A distinctive layer of volcanic ash lies under much of the topsoil inspiring the name Chalk Hill. The complex soils and climate allow Chalk Hill Estate to produce great wines from a wide range of grape varieties. The winerys vineyards are thoughtfully woven through the native foliage and contoured to fit the intricate terrain. The vines are farmed using low-input, sustainable viticultural practices to preserve the long-term viability of the ecosystem. There are a number of memorable activities available to visitors of Chalk Hill Estate. First and foremost, is the wine tasting. Chalk Hill is also famous for its tours. The Estate Tour explores the history, viticulture and winemaking practices at the property. The Culinary Lunch Tour examines the organic gardens and vineyards. The organically farmed produce is the inspiration for Chef Didier Ageorges culinary artistry. The tour includes a sit-down tasting of estate wines paired with Didiers menu of several small plates in the Pavilion an extraordinary conservatory overlooking the equestrian center. For equestrians, there are the Estate Vineyard Trail Rides on horseback. Guests begin their journey at the magnificent Equestiran Center and ride through the vineyards with respected polo professional, Rafael Hernandez.
SPECIAL TOURS AND TASTINGS Private tasting: $15 per person, daily Estate tour: $30 per person, Monday through Friday, includes tasting Reserve Tasting: $50 per person, by appointment. Includes a tasting of limited production wines. Culinary Lunch Tour: $85 per person, call for dates; includes estate tour, culinary garden tour and private food & wine pairings by Chef Didier Ageorges Estate Trail Rides on Horseback: $100 PLAN AHEAD A regular wine tasting takes 30-45 minutes, the estate tour takes about 1 hours and the culinary tour takes about 2 hours. LITTLE KNOWN FACT All wines produced by Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards &Winery are 100% estate grown.
Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery

Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 10300 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg www.chalkhill.com For tours and reservation, call (707) 657-4837 or go to www.vinovisit.com Friend them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter!
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Lancaster Estate
You can read the statistics: Lancaster Estate has 53 acres of hillside vineyards in the coveted volcanic soils of the Alexander Valley. The diverse soils, along with a climate marked by sunny days and cool evenings, are perfect for nurturing the Bordeaux varietals for which Lancaster is esteemed. However, statistics cannot impart the experience of a visit to this extraordinary property. The spectacular seasonal changes in the vineyards are only one of the things youll see when you schedule an appointment at our estate. As you wind your way up the private winery drive from Chalk Hill Road, you will pass vineyards, bright red roses, and the original winery buildings before approaching a modern structure that is our state-of-the-art winery. Following a vineyard and winery tour, you will be guided through a pair of tall wooden doors into our extensive wine caves, which are carved deep into the adjacent hills. Once inside, you will see French oak barrels, filled with wine made from the vines you just touched, resting and aging in perfect temperature and humidity. You will enjoy a seated tasting in one of three exceptional tasting areas, focusing on four of our offerings, including Sophias Hillside Cuve, our flagship Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, and a complex Sauvignon Blanc with beautiful floral aromas and bright hints of citrus. Tastings with our dedicated and knowledgeable staff are unhurried, friendly and educational. When you leave, you will remember the wines, the place and a very special wine country experience.
Varietals In addition to Sauvignon Blanc, all five of the noble red Bordeaux varietals are grown on the Estate: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Tours All visits include a tour of the estate vineyards, production facilities and wine caves culminating in a special, seated tasting. Special times Release parties, harvest lunches and member-only wine pairing dinners are offered several times each year. Should your plans include any luxury lodging needs, the amazing 6,000-square-foot Proprietors Home, with 360 views of the estate, the surrounding Alexander Valley and the Mayacamas Mountains is a unique option for Wine Guild Members. Plan Ahead Tastings here require a reservation. Call or book online at their website ($25 per person includes vineyard and winery tour followed by seated tasting in the wine caves). With advance notice you can upgrade to a Wine & Artisan Cheese Pairing Experience ($45 per person; $35 for Lancaster Estate Wine Guild Members).
For access to special experiences, library vintages, discounts on wine purchases, complimentary tours and tastings and other special privileges, consider joining one of the Lancaster Estate Wine Guild Membership programs. Open daily by appointment, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Closed on Sunday December-April) 15001 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg www.lancaster-estate.com (707) 433-8178 x209 | hospitality@lancaster-estate.com
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Stephen & Walker Winery

Theres nothing quite as exalting as making a wine discovery limited-production, terroir-driven wines, each with a provenance worthy of the 90+ scores achieved by their wonderfully personable winemaker. These are the wines shared with the best of friends and gracing their dinner party tables! In the six years since Stephen & Walker opened their doors just off Healdsburg Square, they have been heartily embraced by both the locals and wine country visitors, and most definitely by the wine aficionados. Nancy Walker, the winemaker and co-proprietor with her husband Tony Stephen, crafts some of the loveliest wines from appellations she holds close to her heart. With a portfolio of lauded wines, whats next for Nancy and Tony? They are currently celebrating the new Home Ranch Winery at 1500 Groove Street in Healdsburg. Also, join them for a privately guided barrel tasting with their winemaker, Nancy Walker. Dont miss upcoming special events such as March weekend barrel tastings and the Dry Creek Passport in April where they will serve pizza and small bites from the onsite wood-fired oven. The Home Ranch Winery will offer wedding facilities, beautiful gardens and culinary and educational seminars that bring in some of the best names in wine country cuisine. Blending seminars and artisan cheese pairings provide for an interesting offsite meeting or wedding shower or the perfect gift! Being a winemaker and gardener, Im naturally excited about developing our new vineyard, olive orchard, lavender and herb gardens, and as were growing everything sustainably, our chicken tractor also adds a fun element! Our pizzas have always been such a hit at our prior events, so were installing our outdoor pizza oven, and onsite catering will provide the fresh, local and seasonal wine country cuisine, says Nancy. Bookings now being accepted for events. Contact Nancy at nancy@trustwine.com.
VARIETALS Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Carignane, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Canelli, Late Harvest Chardonnay and a very special Port called, rather cleverly, Portentous A NICE TOUCH You can expect to sample a small bite with your flight. GOOD TO KNOW Unlike most tasting rooms, they stay open until 7 p.m., which means you can drop by for a guided tasting and then head out to dinner. PLAN AHEAD Since these are rare wines youll seldom find elsewhere, leave some room in your suitcase (or have them shipped). Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily 243 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, (707) 431-8749
Stephen & Walker Tasting Room
Stephen & Walker Home Ranch Winery

Open by appointment 1500 Grove St, Healdsburg, (707) 331-8480
www.trustwine.com www.facebook.com/stephenandwalker Twitter: @stephandwalker
Recent wins: DOUBLE GOLD 2006 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, DOUBLE GOLD 2010 Late Harvest Chardonnay and GOLD 2010 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir.
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Russian River
For more than a century, the Russian River has been a true gateway to the grandeur of Californias wild nature and dramatic coast. Today, it is still a destination for all naturalists as well as an increasingly high-profile wine region and rightly so. Russian River wines are quickly becoming some of the finest, most sought-after wines in the world and artisan winemakers are finally getting their due. Come for the fresh air, fine wines, incomparable cuisines and relax! Things to Do Safari West 3115 Porter Creek Road, Santa Rosa (707) 579-2551, www.safariwest.com Fun for all ages! Experience the spirit of Africa in the wine country on a Safari Adventure or book a tent and sleep overnight in the Animal Kingdom. Riverfront Regional Park 7821 Eastside Road, Healdsburg (707) 565-2041 Once a gravel quarry site, this park now boasts 2 sparkling lakes perfect for fishing and non-motorized boating. Explore redwood grove picnic areas and more than 2 miles of trails around Lake Benoist! Charles Schulz Museum 2301 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa (707) 579-4452, www.schulzmuseum.com A tribute to the wonderful man who brought so much joy to the world with the Peanuts cartoon strip. Finally, a fitting place in Charles Sparky Schulz hometown to preserve, display, and interpret the Peanuts art.
Armstrong Redwoods
Pacific Coast Air Museum 2230 Becker Blvd., Santa Rosa (707) 575-7900 www.pacificcoastairmuseum.org Climb Aboard vintage aircraft, and learn about the history of where and how it was used from the crew who has lovingly restored it. Currently, the F-14 Tomcat, F-16N Viper & F-5 Tiger II are featured. Windsor Golf Club 1340 19th Hole Drive, Windsor (707) 838-7888, www.windsorgolf.com Follow in the footsteps of the pros at this par 72 championship course regarded by the regulars as a must-play course. Four tee options provide an appropriate challenge for any skill level. Armstrong Redwoods 17000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville (707) 869-2015, www.parks.ca.gov The ancient coast redwood is the tallest living thing on our planet! Come see this stately nature preserve of trees close to 1,000 years old!
Food John Ash & Co. Restaurant 4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa (707) 527-7687, www.vintnersinn.com Celebrate wine cuisine at its best. Cooking seasonally with fresh, local foods and produceand pairing these exceptional recipes with wines from the region, today the restaurant remains an icon of gourmet dining and wine country living. Gilardis Delicatessen 810 Den Beste, Windsor, (707) 838-9869 Certainly a vine above the rest! Feast on homemade lasagna and freshly baked sourdough garlic breads. Lodging Vintners Inn, 4350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa (707) 575-7350, www.vintnersinn.com A luxury, 44-room, 4 Diamond intimate hotel that is designed to showcase the very finest in gracious hospitality that Wine Country provides. Relax in the spa, walk the grounds, even take a cooking class with famed chef John Ash! Truly an exceptional hotel! Fountain Grove Inn 101 Fountaingrove Parkway, Santa Rosa (707) 578-6101, www.fountaingroveinn.com For business or leisure travel, the Fountain Grove Inn Hotel & Conference Center is a luxurious, but not ostentatious, hotel that is convenient to all of Sonoma County. Hilton Sonoma Wine Country 3555 Round Barn Blvd., Santa Rosa (707) 523-7555, www.hilton.com Enjoy 13 acres of landscaped grounds and views over Santa Rosa Valley in this resort-like, pet-friendly, 100% non-smoking hotel.
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Korbel Champagne Cellars

Just the drive to this winery, not far from the Sonoma Coast, brings back the history of the early days of winemaking in Northern California. It fluctuates from wild to cultivated as the topography changes along with the climate. Korbel, an iconic name in wine country, has been making California mthode champenoise champagnes for more than 130 years. One of the oldest wineries in California, it is set along the Russian River in Sonoma County, where they pride themselves by producing award-winning California champagne using only the finest premium California-grown varietals. In the mid-1800s, this country offered possibilities to three brothers seeking to escape political unrest in their European homeland. Francis, Anton and Joseph Korbel found success in exchange for enduring hard work and innovation. F . Korbel & Bros. began as a manufacturing business in San Francisco, producing materials for the building industry. As that business expanded, the brothers eventually acquired a sawmill and began a full-scale lumber operation near the town of Guerneville in Sonoma County. This all grew into what is now a premier California champagne enterprise, where French methods were used to make the premium California champagne they became famous for. A visit to this historic winery is a trip back in time, and also a visit to the future. The grounds are beautiful, the tasting room lively yet harkens one back to the hallowed past. The people are well-versed in it all, and a visit is not just about today, it also recognizes a very special history that should not be forgotten. By Charles Neave Varietals California Champagne (15 varieties), Chardonnay, Edelzwicker (white blend), Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Sherry, Port, Brandy (3 varieties) Tours Tasting and tours offered daily, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call ahead for group tours, (707) 824-7708 Garden Tour Hours The Garden Tour is offered daily at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, from the middle of April through the first part of October. Deli Hours Enjoy this popular option daily, at the same time as the tasting room is open. It is like one-stop-shopping with great wine in a historic setting. Fun Fact More than 250 varieties of roses are planted in front of the circa-1882 Korbel family house. Many antique rose varietals have been re-established in the garden and are budding up for a spectacular display. Plan Ahead The winery has many special events so check their website often for more information.

Korbel Champagne Cellars

Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily 13250 River Road, Guerneville (707) 824-7000 | www.korbel.com Follow Korbel on Facebook & Twitter
Celebrate responsibly.
Mention this story for 20% off all California Champagne and Wine (excludes Brandy and merchandise).
34
Martin Ray Winery

Martin Ray Winery is an ambitious amalgam of labels and wines, all housed in one of Sonoma Countys most historic wineries. Founder/Proprietor Courtney Benham is a thirdgeneration San Joaquin Valley winemaker who knew he wanted to some day own a winery himself. In 1990, he discovered a treasure trove of old library wines with the label of Martin Ray, a Santa Cruz Mountains winemaker. Courtney bought the rights to the Martin Ray name and in 2003 purchased the historic MartiniPrati Winery in western Sonoma County; now home to the Martin Ray line of wines. One common thread between Courtney and Martin Ray is the firm belief that vineyard location is crucial to character and quality of the wine. There is a special emphasis on mountaingrown wines, a conviction that mountain-side elevation provides cooler nights during the growing season which result in superb fruit ripeness. Diamond Mountain in Napa Valley, Sonoma Mountain in Sonoma County and the Santa Cruz Mountains to the south are three of the most prestigious vineyard locations for Martin Ray grapes. Wines available include fruit-forward, picnic-friendly Angeline wines, Martin Ray wines that have elegant structure and vineyard character, the vineyard designated reserve wines and Courtney Benham wines that are limited-production offerings from some of Californias most interesting wine regions. At the winery, picnic tables and chairs outside the tasting room overlook verdant hills and vineyards. Lush, colorful landscape and flowers surround the tasting room. The friendly and knowledgeable tasting room staff can suggest interesting wines to taste side-by-side, so visitors can compare a Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma Mountain with one from Alexander Valley. Its not only a great educational experience - its also lots of fun!
Varietals Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Ros, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel On the Vine The longer hang time (the time a grape cluster remains on the vine) that the mountainside vineyards allow means riper, richer fruit. You can find the result right there in your glass of Martin Ray, Angeline and Courtney Benham wine. Fun Fact Martin Ray Winery is one of the oldest historical winery sites in the Golden State (California), so take your time and wander through the historic property. Plan Ahead Allow extra time for a tour (by appointment only) of the historic production facilities, as well as extensive tasting. The scenic drive to Martin Ray Winery on winding roads is a fascinating combination of forests and vineyards. Youll know youve reached the winery when you see the large water tower that dominates the skyline.
Martin Ray Winery

Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 2191 Laguna Road, Santa Rosa (707) 823-2404 www.martinraywinery.com Look for them on Facebook and become a Fan!
15% discount on your first purchase when you mention this story in the Tasting Room!
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Sonoma-Cutrer
What makes a tasting room visit special and memorable? Excellent wine? Charming location? Great staff? Yes, all of the above, and Sonoma-Cutrer, tucked away in the rural paradise of the Russian River Valley, has all of these. And here is proof: They make Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in a true French Burgundian style. Yes, the vines are in Sonoma County, but the clones are French, and the winemaking is pure Burgundian in method and tradition. The result is delicious wine at a fraction of the cost of its French counterparts. The winery is located in the cool Russian River Valley, a prime growing area for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. To get there you drive past lush vineyards and then up a treelined driveway to open lawns and panoramic vistas. Climb a flight of broad stone steps to a spacious, trellis-covered patio with tables and chairs and expansive views toward the west. Youll want to sit and drink it all in, which you can do with a glass of Sonoma-Cutrer in hand. Great wine and a great location can still be diminished if the tasting room staff isnt top notch. But the folks who work here really love their jobs, and their energy and enthusiasm shines through. Most impressive is their understanding that every visitor comes with a different degree of wine knowledge and tasting experience. Here there is no memorized cookiecutter pattern. They listen to you, and tailor information to match your interests as they pour those outstanding wines. By Charles Neave WHAT TO TASTE The Founders Reserve Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are not distributed nationally; a visit to the tasting room is the only way to sample this outstanding wine. GOOD PRESS This Chardonnay is so popular that it has been chosen as the Number One Most Requested wine in restaurants for 20 of the past 22 years. Sonoma-Cutrer for Chardonnay & Croquet The winery has two gorgeous croquet courts and hosts tournaments throughout the summer. The day begins with a friendly croquet tournament while enjoying some special Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay. After the games conclude the players will retire to the terrace for a gourmet boxed lunch. You dont have to know how to play croquet or wear white to have a fabulous time. Cost is only $35 per person. Check the website for dates. TOURS They offer an extensive tour of the vineyards and winemaking facility with a taste of six wines.
Sonoma-Cutrer
Open Thursday-Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments recommended - Call ahead for tour reservations or make them online 4401 Slusser Road, Windsor
Off of River Road
(707) 237-3489 www.sonomacutrer.com
Mention this story for one complimentary tasting.
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Hook & Ladder Winery

Located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, Olivet Road has been home to the De Loach family for 35 years. Cecil De Loach was a firefighter in San Francisco for 16 years and in 1970, he and his wife Christine bought their first 24-acre vineyard in Sonoma County and started second careers as winegrowers. Five years later they made their first wine and they went on to build one of the countrys most successful, popular and iconic wine brands. In 2003, with the De Loach Vineyards brand one of the biggest in the country, the De Loach family decided to start over. They sold their eponymous winery and concentrated on Hook & Ladder, which theyd started 20 years earlier with a Port. In 2004, they opened Hook & Ladder on Olivet Road on the first property the family purchased, next to the historic Barbieri Ranch. Cecil retired from firefighting in 1982, but there are lots of firefighter themes at Hook & Ladder, including fire department patches and t-shirts from visiting firefighters decorating the tasting room. Now, three generations of the De Loach family keep Hook & Ladder to just 35,000-case annually. As part of their philosophy of keeping it simple to help keep prices down, the informal and friendly tasting room occupies a part of the winery itself. As to the wine? Medals, loyal followers and enthusiastic newcomers to the wines are further proof that the De Loaches are still making great wine after all these years. Medal Time Hook & Ladder hit gold at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition with Merlot, Zinfandel, Third Alarm Reserve Pinot Noir and Chardonnay each receiving gold. The Land On 375 acres situated in Russian River Valley, the Hook & Ladder vineyards produce cool climate grapes widely recognized as some of the finest in the world. Fun Facts Look for the shiny red Willys vintage fire truck near the driveway. With a new bocce ball court and picnic grounds, Hook & Ladder is an ideal mid-day stop. For Gourmets The long, cool growing season here yields hand-picked olives with the intense, ripe flavors for their extra-virgin olive oil. Made from mature Mission trees, the stonecrushed cold press master blend produces a richly flavored and beautifully colored oil.
Hook & Ladder Winery and Vineyards

Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily 2134 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa (707) 526-2255 www.hookandladderwinery.com
Look for them on Facebook and become a Fan!
Complimentary wine tasting...and public service (fire/police, etc.) get a 20% discount.
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Santa Rosa
Dining Petite Syrah 205 Fifth Street, Santa Rosa (707) 568-4002, www.petitesyrah.com A highly regarded small bistro with a small plate menu and reasonably priced entrees.
Downtown is the heart of Santa Rosa where entertainment, shopping, wine tasting and restaurants keep visitors itineraries full. Tasting opportunities in downtown Santa Rosa include a new urban winery village called Vintners Square that is home to several small, boutique but full-production wineries with tasting rooms including DArgenzio Winery. Nearby, the historic Railroad Square has an authentic old town ambiance and is a favorite place to pass time, socialize and savor the wine country experience with antique shops, fine dining, local arts/entertainment and, of course, wine tasting. For more information on vacationing in Santa Rosa, go to www.visitsantarosa.com. CaBianca 835 Second Street, Santa Rosa (707) 542-5800, cabianca.com Meaning white house in Italian, CaBianca is located in a stunning white Victorian in downtown Santa Rosa. Their menu is a blend of multiple regions of Italy. ATTRACTIONS Luther Burbank Home & Gardens 204 Santa Rosa Avenue, Santa Rosa (707) 524-5445, www.lutherburbank.org Self-guided tours of the famed horticulturists home, greenhouse, garden and carriage house a registered national, state and city historic landmark. The stunning landscaped grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk.
Jack and Tonys Restaurant and Whisky Bar 115 4th Street, Santa Rosa La Gare Wednesday Night Market TO TO (707) 526-4347, jackandtonys.com 208 Wilson Street May through September CALISTOGA KENDALL-JACKSON HEALDSBURG GEYSERVILLE Modern American Regional cooking and Beef Wellington, Rack of Lamb, Chateau- RIDGE Sonoma Countys premier farmers market and street fair PARADISE WINE CENTER D an extensive Sonoma County wine list. briand Bouquetiere for Two are someWINERY of the a festival-like atmosphere for visitors and locals OA GS R N I R P S WEST that La Gare has been serving for 30 The adjacent Whisky Bar shelves over dishes showcases Sonoma Countys finest food, produce, MARK . 300 expressions of Scotch, Bourbon, Irish, years and counting. Every meal includes RD vendors and live entertainment, all in one location. RIVER VINTNER'S TO Japanese whiskies American and ranging the soup du jour and salad. GUERNEVILLE & INN from $6 RUSSIAN to wellRIVER over $100 and now offering Summer Nights | Railroad Square tasting flights. Russian River Brewing Co A family-friendly summer street party each year on the Eric Kent Wine Cellars 725 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa first Friday of the month, June through September. These . Y W K P HOPPER AVE. OV E TAINGR (707) 545-2337, russianriverbrewing.com Tex Wasabis Rock n Roll Sushi BBQ warm nights are filled with wine tasting, al fresco dinFOUN Benovia 515 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa INDUSTRIAL Best known for its aggressively hopped ing, live music from two stages, arts and crafts booths DR (707) 544-8399, www.texwasabis.com California-style ales, Belgian-style ales and more, from 6 to 9 p.m. The event is free. Wine tastInspiration Not to Scale Novy PINER RD and barrel-aged beers, this popular spot Santa Rosas celebrity chef Guy Fieri Siduri is ing is available for a fee and benefits local non-profits. also serves up a large variety of specialty the visionary behind Tex Wasabis. In wild W. STE ELE pizzas, foccacia bread, sandwiches, salads, Fieri style, the menu Station 1870 LN is loaded with flavors . calzones and beer bites. conceptualized by the talented Fieri. 123 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa STEELE LN. GUERNEVILLE RD. (707) 623-9619, www.station1870.com Deriving its name from the year that the first train pulled into the now historic Railroad Square, Station DARGENZIO Driving Time: 8 minutes 1870 is an essential stop for all who enjoy wine. The From Lost Canyon Winery to Cellars of Sonoma 0 miles atmosphere within is rich and inviting a great place to 101 COLL EGE to Ancient Oaks Winery >1 miles AVE. gather and to mingle. to DArgenzio Winery 1+ miles
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LODGING Hotel La Rose 308 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa, www.hotellarose.com A landmark property built over 100 years ago, offering old-world charm with modern amenities. Guests can opt to stay in either the main building, a 1907 stone charmer constructed by Italian stone masons, or one of 19 rooms in the Carriage House. Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel and Spa 170 Railroad Street, www.vineyardcreek.hyatt.com A Tuscan-inspired hotel situated along the Santa Rosa Creek, sits adjacent to Railroad Square. This romantic, luxury hotel exudes relaxation.
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Lost Canyon Winery

Lost Canyon Winerys tasting room is housed in the newly opened Station 1870 Wine Bar in downtown Santa Rosa. Named for the first year the train pulled into the now historic Railroad Square, this tasting room offers guests a rich and inviting atmosphere for wine flights or just to sip a glass of wine at one of their outdoor tables. With a wine rack separating the tasting room from the wine bar, this is an ideal venue. The tasting room showcases Lost Canyons small lot single-vineyard designated wines. These wines are carefully crafted from five premier Russian River Valley vineyards and highlight the individual characteristics of each vineyard year after year. All current vintages are sold by the glass or bottle and they even have limited library verticals still available. Join their Case Club Wine Club and receive a 25% discount on a full case of wine. Being a club member entitles you to complimentary tasting passes at their sister winerys tasting rooms and all special events and new release parties. In the evening, as the tasting room closes and the wine bar gets lively, so do the options. Find yourself seated at the bar or a cozy lounge while enjoying their live music. Taste wines from their sister winery Fritz Underground or their exclusively imported Italian wines. They also tempt guests with their house-made flatbreads, crostinis and gourmet cheese plates using organic and locally sourced food. Looking for a great location for your next party? The Lost Canyon Winery tasting room can host your special event featuring their wines, food and entertainment. Since each event is unique, let them help you plan, cater and manage your next get together. By Alexandra Charsley VARIETALS Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah FUN FACTS Their tasting room takes on a new identity at 4 p.m. with live music and small bites to be paired with any of their wines. They also have a flat screen TV for sports fans! Enjoy Happy Hour specials from 4 to 6 p.m. and try one of their Prosecco cocktails! VISIT The tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is conveniently located in the historic Railroad Square in downtown Santa Rosa. Their evening wine bar Station 1870 is open Wednesday through Sunday from 4 to 10 p.m. Their current live music lineup features Jazz music on Thursdays, Flamenco on Fridays and Rock n Roll on Saturdays.
Open Thursday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Open Wednesday-Sunday 4 to 10 p.m. 123 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa, CA
in Railroad Square
Lost Canyon Winery

Station 1870 Wine Bar
(707) 623-9621 info@lostcanyonwinery.com www.lostcanyonwinery.com
Enjoy 2 for 1 wine tasting and 10% off wine purchases when you mention Day Trips on your visit.
39
Cellars of Sonoma
Situated in the heart of Santa Rosas bustling Railroad Square, Cellars of Sonoma Tasting Room & Wine Bar has become one of the towns biggest draws as the new place in town to discover handcrafted, award-winning wines from some of Northern Californias rising star wineries and both new and established winemakers. Vintners represented include Amorosa Bella, Bonneau Wines, DuNah Vineyards, Gann Family Cellars, James Family Cellars, La Sirena, Joseph Jewell, Ousterhout Wine and Vineyard and TR Elliott. All are small-production local wineries. Adding to the appeal of this trendy spot which does, indeed feel as much like a restaurant and bar as it does a traditional wine country tasting room is that they sell their wines by the glass, and you can order food from one of the nearby restaurants and theyll deliver. As one recent visitor wrote, The atmosphere is friendly, comfortable, casual, and fun. Cellars of Sonoma provides regularly scheduled educational and special events geared toward Sonoma County residents and visitors alike, said owner and founder Scott Jordan. The experience that we offer isnt like a traditional tasting room and wine bar, but rather its akin to being in the tasting room of an upscale, family-owned winery. The ambiance is meant to give our visitors a more authentic and memorable Sonoma Wine Country experience, while providing small lot wines to consumers, and it offers a valuable distribution channel to the wineries. It is, as they say in the business world, a classic win-win situation, and more than merits repeat visits, since each day at this downtown Santa Rosa establishment is always a new and welcome adventure. By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Varietals You name it. There are reds, whites, dessert wines, sparklers like the NV Mendocino Sparkling Brut Ros, large format bottles and library wines that in some cases are available only to members. Check the Date The full and ever-changing calendar of events at Cellars of Sonoma includes live music, winemaker visits, special sales, wine recipe potlucks, live broadcasts, annual parties like those held for the Oscars, and more. Check their website for whats coming up. Clubbing It Their popular Wine Club offers both wines that youll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else, special events, as well as discounts. Fun Fact Santa Rosas Railroad Square, right off Highway 101 at exit 489, is not only filled with historic buildings, it also has its own boutique shopping, antique stores and salons.
Cellars of Sonoma
Sunday - Monday 12 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday - Wednesday 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday - Saturday 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (live music) 133 4th Street, Santa Rosa (707) 578-1826 www.cellarsofsonoma.com Become a Fan on Facebook
2 for 1 Food and Wine Pairing ($25pp value). Reservations required 1 to 5 p.m.
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Ancient Oak Cellars

Co-owners and vintners Ken and Melissa MoholtSiebert recently opened a tasting room in downtown Santa Rosa for their winery, which is named for the ancient oak tree presiding over their family vineyard. Conveniently located on Fourth Street, amidst restaurants, shopping, art and entertainment, Ancient Oak Cellars new tasting room in the landmark Corricks store presents hand-crafted wines from family-grown Sonoma County grapes. Ken and Melissas vision of sustainable practices is apparent in every aspect of winemaking. Their own Pinot Noir Vineyard was planted by Ken and his grandfather Henry on Siebert Ranch, just north of Santa Rosa, where sheep graze in the winter. All of their vineyards, located within 15 miles of Santa Rosa, are farmed by Ken and Melissa and the families that live on them, with the help of dedicated vineyard workers who have worked the land for many years. Thats why Ken and Melissa use the slogan Real Dirt Real People Real Wine. Their family vineyards, Siebert Ranch, Pagnano Vineyard and the Cartan family vineyard are all located in the Russian River Valley; the Warnecke Ranch is in the Alexander Valley, and the Berger Vineyard is on Sonoma Mountain. Their Winemaker, Kent Barthman brings decades of experience with both Bordeaux and Burgundian varietals in premium labels. Kent was attracted to partnering with Ken and Melissa because they have superior hillside vineyards with great fruit, giving him the opportunity to make some of the definitive wines of hiscareer. By Alexandra Charsley VARIETALS Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Rosof Pinot,Zinfandel FUN FACTS Join them on Fridays for Weekly Wine Happy Hour from 5 to 7 p.m. Enjoy live music while sipping a glass of your favorite wine! New releases include some outstanding cuves of Cabernet and Merlotfrom their Sonoma Mountain Berger Vineyard and a Sonoma County Rosof Pinot. Their tasting counter was made by a local craftsman out of a single 27-foot slab of elm, with inset panels of handcarved oak. To save on parking hassles, park in a downtown parking garage and theyll validate your parking. VISIT The tasting room is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday noon to 5 p.m. and Fridays is open until 7 p.m. It is located inside the landmark Corricks, adjacent to their ARTrails gallery focused on local artists.
Ancient Oak Cellars

Open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday noon to 5p.m., Fridays until 7 p.m. 637 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa (707) 536-1546 | www.ancientoakcellars.com www.info@ancientoakcellars.com www.facebook.com/pages/Ancient-Oak-Cellars/
Enjoy 2 for 1 wine tasting when you mention Day Trips on your visit.
41
DArgenzio Winery
Discover DArgenzio Winery, a hidden gem located in the beautiful wine region of Sonoma County. Santa Rosas urban boutique winery and tasting room offers wines from a wide array of Sonoma County appellations as well as Italian varietals for wine lovers to sample. Each of the DArgenzio wines are vineyard-designate, small-lot production wines of 300 cases or less. Owned and operated by three generations of Italian Americans working together to showcase the finest artisan wines, Ray and Ricci DArgenzio, identical twin brothers, continue the tradition of their artisan heritage. At DArgenzio Winery, take the time to play bocce or enjoy a picnic in their patio area while trying their Primo Selection, a tasting flight of five wines. $10 per guest (fee waived with purchase of a bottle). For those craving a snack, DArgenzio offers Piccolo Morsi, small bites of antipasti and mouth-watering gelato. You can also take their barrel tasting and tour which includes four wines straight from the barrel while having a special tour of the winery. You will learn about their family history, winemaking techniques and see how wine is made; $15 per guest. Last but not least, dont miss their Chocolate and Wine Pairing Experience. Delight your senses by trying melt-in-your-mouth chocolates and five of their wines; $15 per guest. DArgenzio Winery is the perfect spot to stop and take in a taste of Italy, where great wine, food, music and happy people come together to celebrate the pleasures of life! By Monica Dashwood VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Tocai Friulano, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Moscato, Aglianico, Sagrantino, Sauvignon Blanc FUN FACTS DArgenzio produces a tribute wine to the famous Randy Rhoads, remembered for his work as lead guitarist and musical composer with Ozzy Osbourne and Quiet Riot, particularly for his complex guitar riffs on the wellrecognized classic song Crazy Train. The Randy Rhoads Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon is a one-time release created by Kathryn Rhoads DArgenzio, dedicated with love and affection to honor the memory of her brother, Randy Rhoads. SPECIAL EVENTS For great wine, food, music and people, come to Wine Down Thursday, every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. This weekly event offers artisan wines while listening to live music and enjoying tasty food. Wines are available to purchase by the glass or bottle. Reservations recommended, not required.
DArgenzio Winery
Open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Santa Rosa Vintners Square 1301 Cleveland Ave. Suite A Santa Rosa, CA 95401 (707) 546-2466 www.dargenziowine.com
Mention Day Trips for 15% off bottles purchased; 25% off mixed case purchase.
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Wine Country doesnt get more real than Sonoma Valley, whose rich soils mark the birthplace of Californias wine industry. Its also the closest wine region to San Francisco, just 45 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Cradled between the Mayacamas and the Sonoma Mountain ranges, Sonoma Valley encompasses a rolling patchwork of vineyards, quaint farms and 13,000 acres of scenic parkland. In the center of town, the eight-acre Sonoma Plaza is a National Historic Landmark, strewn with sprawling shade trees and bordered by carefully preserved adobe buildings. Up the road in Glen Ellen, author and bohemian adventurer Jack London lived and wrote at his pristine Beauty Ranch, now an 800-acre state historic park. The historic Sonoma Plaza lies at the heart of Sonoma Valley gateway region to Sonoma County. Sonoma Plazas done it all Mexican military outpost, fleeting frontier republic, Spanish Mission village. Now a gorgeous historic landmark and slow culture capitol, Sonoma Plaza radiates romance around every corner, cafe and cobblestone. Whether youre here for an overnight or extended stay, Sonoma Plaza offers the picture-perfect start (and end) to your adventures. Its a pedestrian paradise, so ditch the car keys and discover Real Wine Country on foot or bicycle. The Plazas old adobe storefronts, meandering alleyways, sunlit courtyards and historic landmarks hum with an eclectic mix of restaurants, hotels, tasting rooms, cafes, artisan boutiques, gallerieseven a vintage movie house. As for the nature lover, wildflower hikes and stunning hilltop vistas abound within just a short distance. Anchoring it all is the tranquil Plaza itself, whose vast green stretches of lawn and immense tree canopy create a lush setting for picnics, cultural activities and weekly farmers markets. SonomaValley.com.
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Things to Do Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Highway 12 & Adobe Canyon Rd, Kenwood Hikes include views, bridges and impressive waterfalls. Home of Ferguson Observatory largest in the western United States. Kenwood Depot 314 Warm Springs Road, Kenwood (707) 833-5190, www.kenwooddepot.com Sonoma County Historic Landmark #46. Now a venue for special events, this historic landmark was once a working train station and was built from locally cut basalt. Kenwood Community Church 9637 Channing Row, Kenwood www.kenwoodcommunitychurch.com Charming church built in 1888. Kenwood Plaza Park Located on Warm Springs Road between Kenwood Depot and Kenwood Community Church This 5-acre park comes complete with a play structure and picnic tables. Kenwood Farmhouse 9255 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood (707) 833-1212 Gift shop specializing in the works of local artisans and craftsmen. Look for them on Facebook. Swedes Feeds Pet Garden & Gifts 9140 Highway 12, Kenwood (707) 833-5050, swedesfeedskenwood.com Gifts, garden art, unsual plants and pottery.
Driving Time: 12 minutes From Ledson Winery to St. Francis >1 mile to Chateau St. Jean 2 miles to En Garde Winery 1 mile to VJB Cellars 0 mile to Kenwood Vineyards >1 mile Total 4+ miles
First driving into the Valley of the Moon is certainly a lushly sensory experience. Rolling hills, centuries-old Heritage Oaks and verdant vineyards drape the slopes and valley floor beneath Sonomas majestically craggy Mayacama mountain range. Graceful old country manors and their largely still in-tact estates dot the countryside while cozy towns still speak to neighborly days gone by. Kenwood boasts some of the finest artisan wineries in all of northern California. Ty Caton, Muscardini Cellars, VJB, Mayo Reserve Room, Kenwood Vineyards, Kunde Estate, Deerfield Ranch, Enkidu, the Annadel Estate, Ledson, St. Francis and Chateau St. Jean are only some of the award-winning, gorgeous Wine Country Destinations located in and adjacent to Kenwood. Looking for a break from wine tasting? Enjoy antique shopping at Vita Bella or browse Swedes Feeds for garden and both large or small pets needs. Splurge on an ultra-luxurious massage or facial at the Kenwood Inn & Spa. Or simply sit out, pick up a Kenwood Press newspaper and unwind on the patios at Caf Citti, the Kenwood, or Doce Lunas restaurants. Food Kenwood Restaurant 9900 Highway 12, Kenwood, CA 95452 (707) 833-6326, www.kenwoodrestaurant.com A favorite restaurant for local winemakers, vintners & celebrities. Fresh ingredients, great views, local/international wines. Caf Citti 9049 Highway 12, Kenwood (707) 833-2690, www.cafecitti.com A trattoria style restaurant with great food, great value, great atmosphere. Vineyards Inn 8445 Highway 12, Kenwood (707) 833-2300, www.vineyardsinn.com Creative, organic, authentic flavors of Spain VJB Cellars 60 Shaw Avenue, corner of Hwy. 12, Kenwood (707) 833-4500, www.vjbcellars.com Enjoying lunch of fresh panini or antipasti or a pizza from the wood-fired oven. Theres also an onsite chocolate and gelato shop! Lodging Kenwood Inn And Spa 10400 Highway 12, Kenwood (707) 353-6966, www.kenwoodinn.com A secluded, luxury hotel; Mediterranean-inspired private restaurant; rated in the top three resort spas in the United States Cond Nast Traveler Readers Poll, April 2009.
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Ledson Winery & Vineyards

If you want to be treated like royalty, visit Ledson Winery and Vineyards in Kenwood. The 16,000 square foot winery, known as The Castle, sits majestically behind an estate vineyard. Steve Ledson, a fifth-generation grape grower and winemaker, opened the winery in 1999, creating one of the most unique and dynamic wineries anywhere. When you arrive, a concierge will guide you over elegant hardwood floors and through seemingly endless corridors to one of four classy tasting bars. Ledson Winery produces about 80 wines from more than 20 varietals. All the wines are handcrafted in small production lots and many sell out before the next vintage goes to market. The wines are sold exclusively at the winery, the Ledson Hotel and online. Fortunately, Ledson offers four wine clubs to ensure members have access to wine before it disappears. The grand staircase will take you upstairs, where exquisite private tasting suites are available by reservation. Call ahead to check on availability. You will also be delighted by the Gourmet Marketplace, which features a mouthwatering array of fine cheeses, sandwiches, pastas, salads and decadent desserts. On warm days, you can picnic beneath century-old oak trees and take in the magnificent vineyard views while enjoying your favorite Ledson wine. On every level, Ledson Winery succeeds in creating an exclusive experience. If you want to sample the incredible wine and be transported to the perfect wine country experience, you must visit The Castle. Check out the website at www.ledson.com, or call (707) 537-3823 to make a private tasting reservation. Winemaker Philosophy When I first started making wine for the family in 1993, my goal was to produce a portfolio of wines with the diversity to satisfy every palate and everyones pocketbook. Steve Ledson What Not to Miss The Castle experience is unlike any other. From intricately detailed architecture, to the breathtaking grounds, its truly a magical place. Add to that a most amazing array of impeccable wines! Tasting Menu Ledson Winery produces about 80 outstanding wines, with too many great scores and awards to mention here! Public tastings are available at several beautifully appointed tasting bars. Private sit-down tastings (cheese plates optional) are held in one of six luxurious private suites. You May Now Kiss the Bride There is no place more romantic than The Castle. The dramatic circular driveway, arched carriage entryway, water fountains and the grand staircase create the perfect setting for a storybook wedding.
Ledson Winery & Vineyards

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 7335 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood
Inside Corricks
(707) 537-3810 | www.ledson.com For tours & reservations, contact (707) 537-3823 or tastings@ledson.com Follow Ledson on Facebook!
Upgraded Tasting: Purchase a tasting of 6 wines and receive an upgrade to 9 wines.

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St. Francis Winery & Vineyards

At St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, wine and food blend perfectly to reflect the beauty and charm of Sonoma Valley, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors. The Winerys ZAGAT-recommended multicourse wine and food pairing is unsurpassed in wine country, offering what a local food writer described as small plates that rival the kitchen of Michelin-starred restaurants. St. Francis Executive Chef David Bush, whose rsum includes Sonomas The Girl & The Fig restaurants, masterfully pairs his creative dishes with St. Francis award-winning wines. The menu changes seasonally but offers an array of gourmet delicacies. My philosophy about wine and food pairing is that there are no rules, Chef Bush says. I like to take risks. My ultimate goal is to surprise people and for them to leave with a different view of how wine and food work together. The newly renovated St. Francis dining room, with its tiled fireplace and spectacular vineyard views, is the ideal setting for Chef Bushs break-the-rules pairings. Guests sit at a customdesigned round table, guided through each course by an expert host who highlights key components and shares some of the winerys history. The experience is relaxed, friendly and educational, showcasing the best Sonoma County has to offer. Seated pairings are held Friday-Sunday at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. There are two seatings on Mondays and Thursdays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The cost is $42 per person. Reservations are strongly recommended and can made online by visiting www.stfranciswinery.com or by calling 1-800-794-6674. For a more informal wine and food paring, St. Francis offers charcuterie and wine flights on the patio or inside its gorgeous Mission-style tasting room. These pairings are available daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $25 per person. Daily Wine Tasting Taste critically acclaimed 100% Sonoma County estate wines in the winerys beautiful mission-style tasting room daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Charcuterie on the Patio For a more informal wine and food paring, enjoy charcuterie and wine flights on the patio or in the tasting room from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $25 per person. Private Estate Dinners Enjoy a memorable seven-course dinner for 8-16 prepared by St. Francis Executive Chef. The beautiful Mission-style Winery will be your private dining room for this intimate, one-of-a-kind experience. Offered 7 days, 6:30 to 9 p.m. By appointment only, with 72 hours notice. $135 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Reservations required by calling (707) 833-0255. Shopping for a great wine club? AOLs Luxist named the St. Francis Patrons Society one of the best wine clubs in the U.S.
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards

Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 100 Pythian Road, Santa Rosa 1-888-675-WINE www.stfranciswinery.com Follow St. Francis on Facebook and Twitter!
Present this story to receive two-for-one wine tasting.
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Chateau St. Jean

As patrons arrive at Chateau St. Jean they are greeted by an expansive European-inspired garden. The topiary is a true spectacle which creates a defined ambiance of both grandeur and sophistication. The adjacent patio allows patrons to fully admire the garden even before they have had a chance to taste. Chateau St. Jean has two tasting room options. The main tasting room has one of the largest wine-related gift shops in Sonoma Valley and offers a well-balanced sampling of both whites and reds. The Vineyard Room, located directly across from the main tasting room, focuses on Chateau St. Jeans higher-end wines. Chateau St. Jean is well known in many wine circles. Total annual production consists of 32 different wines (10 of which are distributed). One of its most highly reputable wines is known as the Cinq Cpages. A winner of countless awards over the years, the Cinq Cpages is arguably the most complex wine in Chateau St. Jeans wine repertoire. In fact, for $75 per person, one can experience all of the different components that go into the wine with the Cinq Cpages blending seminar. It lasts roughly one hour and the everyday wine drinker can feel like an expert as they create their own blend and compete with other tour members in the Best Blend contest. Another option is the Promenade Tour and Tasting a relaxing guided tour of the stunning estate that takes place daily at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. For $20 per person, an educated host will teach you the rich history as well as the growing cycle and the fruit characteristics of several grape varieties while sipping on some of their finest wines. By Brendan Conroy What Not to Miss The gardens stand alone as truly a spectacular sight. The Vineyard Room tasting may be $10 more than the regular, but one should invest in the experience itself and taste premium wines in the comfort of an outside patio overlooking beautiful hills and vineyards. Standout Wines Cinq Cpages, Reserve Merlot, Reserve Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Fum Blanc and for the sweet wine drinker, the Gewrztraminer One Stop Shopping Chateau St. Jean has an exquisite merchandise section with assorted sandwiches, cheeses, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, as well as anything one would need in order to create a superb picnic experience. With grounds as beautiful as this, one can plan an entire day around the bounty of Chateau St. Jean.
Chateau St. Jean

Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 8555 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood www.chateaustjean.com For tours & reservations, call 1-877-478-5326 Follow Chateau St. Jean on Facebook!
2 for 1 wine tasting in the Main Tasting Room and 15% off wine purchases with this story.
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En Garde Winery
Csaba Szakal is a fourth generation winemaker who came to California from his native Hungary 17 years ago as a computer programmer. While living in Silicon Valley, Csaba began making wine in his garage as a hobby. His first vintage won him a gold medal and his continuing success inspired him to start En Garde Winery. Csaba opened his Kenwood tasting room last summer and has been quietly blowing away his guests as well as locals with his award-winning wines in particular his Cabernet Sauvignon and his Pinot Noir. While he does not own any vineyards, he certainly knows how and where to find great fruit. His Cabernet and Cabernet Franc are sourced from Diamond Mountain in Napa, where his En Garde Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon won Best in Show at the Affairs of the Vine Cabernet Shootout. He sources his fruit from only the best grape growers in California and only makes varietals that he is passionate about. His award-winning Pinot Noir, which comes from the Russian River area, as well as his Cabs from Diamond Mountain are the mainstays of his menu, Csaba also enjoys creating numerous single vineyard micro-lots of Tempranillo, Albarino, Malbec, a dry ros and a Bordeaux blend. You can actually take a tour of California in our tasting room, says Csaba. In addition to the various Napa and Sonoma appellations, we also source fruit for our other single vineyard wines from El Dorado in the Sierra foothills, Lodi and the Alexander Valley in northwest Sonoma County. By Mike Hyland DONT MISS The 2007 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2009 Reserve Russian River Pinot Noir VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Albarino, Tempranillo, Rose, Berry Port PLAN AHEAD The Kenwood tasting room is somewhat small so if you are traveling with a group or six or more, it is best to call ahead and make a reservation for tasting. FUN FACT Csabas grandfathers winery exclusively produced the Dry Ros and it was never bottled. The customers brought their own demijohns and they were filled directly from the barrels. Csaba follows his grandfathers recipe to make the same dry ros today.
En Garde Winery
Open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 9077 Sonoma Highway Kenwood, CA 95452 (707) 282-9216 www.engardewinery.com
Mention Day Trips for a Two for One Tasting Flight
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VJB Vineyards & Cellars

With the opening of a new tasting room and marketplace, VJB Vineyards and Cellars has become a top wine and food destination by offering visitors an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of the Sonoma Valley. From the wines to the architecture, the food and the hospitality, everything here is a testament to the Belmonte familys Italian heritage. Guests will undoubtedly leave here feeling like theyve experienced that unique culture. The stunning two-story Italian villa along the Sonoma Highway in Kenwood looks like it was plucked off a Tuscan hillside and is surrounded by nearly two acres of newly planted Montepulciano and Aglianico vines, both Italian varietals that are rarely grown in California. In the tasting room, guests may sample those wines as well as other Italian varietals such as Tocai Friulano, Primitivo and VJBs flagship wine called Dante a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese made in the tradition of a Super Tuscan wine. No matter what is on the tasting menu each day, guests can be assured that every wine at VJB is produced with an eye toward New World innovation and Old World sensibility. VJB produces less than 7,500 cases annually and a large portion of the grapes are grown on the 12 acre estate vineyard nearby. The wines are available exclusively in the tasting room or through membership in their popular wine club, Club Enoteca. Standout Wines Sangiovese is one of the best known Italian wines and once you taste VJBs 2009 Estate Sangiovese, youll know why. This Sonoma Valley grown wine is full of red, ripe fruit flavors and has soft, seductive tannins making it the perfect wine to pair with pasta and red sauce. VJB also produces less well-known, but equally delicious varietals like the Sicilian grape Nero dAvola as well as Montepulciano. The 2009 Estate Montepulciano is a medium-bodied red wine with a baked cherry nose and mellow tannins. Once you taste it, youll know why its a favorite of Club Enoteca members that sells out in a matter of a few short months Stay Awhile In addition to wine tasting, guests will want to spend warm spring and summer days lingering on VJBs central piazza while enjoying lunch of fresh panini or antipasti from La Cucina or a pizza from the wood-fired oven. For dessert, theres also an onsite chocolate and gelato shop. Afterwards, visitors can browse the upstairs art gallery or the marketplace for estate-grown olive oil, owner and Executive Chef Maria Belmontes homemade tomato sauces and pestos, plus a wide range of the very best imported Italian pantry items to enjoy at home. On weekends, the daily 1 p.m. performance by the Sonoma Tenors is not to be missed. There truly is no better place to soak up a little bit of Italy in the Sonoma Valley.
VJBVineyards & Cellars

Tasting Available 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Espresso Bar & Deli at 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 60 Shaw Avenue, Kenwood
(Corner of Sonoma Highway 12 & Shaw Avenue)
(707) 833-2300 www.vjbcellars.com
Mention this story for complimentary tasting + 15 % savings on any wine purchase!
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Kenwood Vineyards
With so many wine tasting options in the Sonoma Valley it really is a no-brainer to choose to taste at Kenwood Vineyards. Winemaker Pat Henderson has been amassing a plethora of awards including, most recently, Double Gold, Golds and Silvers at the 2013 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Whether you sip the Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, the Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon, you will taste an award winner! Nestled in the heart of the Sonoma Valley, the Kenwood Vineyards tasting room is housed in a converted barn that dates back to 1906. The winery is committed to producing premium varietal wines that reflect Sonoma Countys finest vineyards in their character and style. More than 125 stainless steel fermenting and upright oak tanks are used in combination with 14,000 French and American oak barrels. Kenwood has earned the reputation of producing consistent, quality wines for more than 40 years. Make a reservation for the popular Art, Food & Wine Experience at Kenwood Vineyards every weekend. Long known for the original artwork on their wine labels, the winery hosts the Experience every Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. where guests can taste the Cabernet Sauvignon while learning and viewing the renowned Artist Series collection. On display are original art pieces from the collection that began with the controversial 1975 Naked Lady by David Lance Goines. Savory appetizers are paired with the wines to provide an incomparable experience like no other in the Valley. by Mike Hyland Art, Food & Wine Reservations are required at least 72 hours in advance for the Art, Food & Wine Experience, every Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. For reservations, call (707) 282-4228 or go to www.kenwoodvineyards.com. The cost is $30 per person and $25 per person for wine club members. Fun Fact Since 1976, Kenwood Vineyards has the sole rights to all the grapes from the historic Jack London Vineyards. Varietals Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, White Zinfandel, Moscato, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Vintage White (blend), Vintage Red (blend), Sparkling Wine
Kenwood Vineyards
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 9592 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA 95452 (707) 833-5891 www.kenwoodvineyards.com Look for Kenwood Vineyards on Facebook & Twitter
Enjoy responsibly.
Mention this story to receive complimentary tasting.
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Glen Ellen
Follow Highway 12, once the railway system, through the Valley of the Moon to the bucolic berg of Glen Ellen! Glen Ellen is more than just a town. It is the foodie and wine destination for Sonoma locals. Located north of downtown Sonoma on Arnold Drive, just west of Highway 12, Glen Ellen restaurants and town market celebrate the best of local wines, produce and services. Check out Glen Ellens award-winning wineries such as Eric Ross, Benzinger, Audelssa, HKG, Mayo Family, B.R. Cohn, Arrowood and Moondance Cellars. Enjoy a rejuvenating spa experience inside a large, historic wine cask at Magical Massage. Walk Jack Londons hillsides and explore the famous ruins of his Wolf House. Or, gather with friends and family at local spots such as The Fig Caf, Glen Ellen Inn, Garden Court Caf, Saffron and Yeti the best curry youll have outside of India. Whatever your taste, Glen Ellen is one sweet town that satisfies time and again. Things to Do Bouverie Preserve 13935 Highway 12, Glen Ellen Jack London State Historical Park (707) 938-4554, www.egret.org 2400 London Ranch Rd., Glen Ellen TO SANTA ROSA cirlcles through Magnificent 535-acre property features a Half-mile-long trail S RD O M OS A rich and distinct combination of plants world-famous author, Jack LLondons LEDSONRD and animals, including more than 130 Beauty Ranch features the remains IAN TH ST. FRANCIS PY species of birds, 350 species of flowering of Jack Londons dream home destroyed plants and numerous large mammals by fire before moving in as well as a Sugarloaf Ridge such as the bobcat, grey fox, and coyote. museum and the grave site of Jack and State Park ANYON RD. BE C O Charmian London. AD TO 12The Red Barn Store at Oak Hill Farm SANTA ROSA LE DA 15101 Highway 12, Glen Ellen WN A L Vineyards Inn Quarryhill Botanical Garden ST. JEAN RD (707) C996-6643, www.oakhillfarm.net EAU HAT Cafe Citti 12841 Highway 12, Glen Ellen CHATEAU ST. JEAN Rustic 100-year-old dairy barn selling EN GARDE (707) 996-6027, www.quarryhillbg.org lettuce, VINEYARDS heirloom vegetables, KENWOOD VJB CELLARS fresh herbs, Swedes Feeds Mayo Family Asian botanical gardens featuring oneReserve of Roomflowers and ornamental greens, handPets, Gardens & Gifts Kenwood Farmhouse the largest collections of documented, ARM SPRINGS RD crafted wreaths, dried goods, bouquets Park W wild-collected Asian plants in the world. Depot Church and gifts.
Kenwood Inn and Spa
Food Glen Ellen Inn Oyster Grill & Martini Bar 13670 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 996-6409, www.glenelleninn.com Fusion of local ingredients paired with French, Asian and Italian influences. Glen Ellen Star 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 343-1384, glenellenstar.com The menu features rustic California Wine Country cuisine with local and international influences including delicious offerings from the wood-burning brick oven. Yeti Restaurant 14301 Arnold Drive, Jack London Village, Glen Ellen (707) 996-9930, www.yetirestaurant.com Fusion of both Nepalese and Indian cultures. Garden Court Cafe 13647 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 935-1565, www.gardencourtcafe.com A local favorite for breakfast, brunch and lunch. If you leave hungry, its your own fault. Glen Ellen Village Market 13751 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 996-6728, www.sonoma-glenellenmkt.com Pack the perfect picnic at this wine country inspired gourmet market with fresh, local products. Lodging Gaige House Inn 13540 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 935-0237, www.gaige.com Asian-inspired ambiance combined with modern luxury. Granite soaking tubs and private Japanese gardens perfect for in-suite spa treatments. Michelin recommended. Ranked as 18 in Conde Nasts Top Small Hotels in the U.S. Beltane Ranch 11775 Highway 12, Glen Ellen www.beltaneranch.com, (707) 996-6501 1892 ranch house and cottage walking trails lead past horses and cattle, through vineyards, olive orchards and organically farmed produce gardens. Jack London Lodge 13740 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen www.jacklondonlodge, (707) 938-8510 Situated on Sonoma Creek quiet, peaceful setting with a pool, heated spa and lovely gardens. Facility includes Wolf House Restaurant and historic Jack London Saloon.
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Driving Time: 28 minutes From Matanzas Creek to Moondance Cellars 8 miles to Eric Ross Winery 0 miles to Valley of the Moon >2 mile to Little Vineyards .5 miles to B.R. Cohn Winery >.5 miles to Loxton Cellars >4 miles Total 14.5 miles
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Matanzas Creek Winery

This is what visiting Wine Country is all about - roll down the windows, let the fresh country air flow and meander the scenic winding road past horses, dairy cows and vineyards, all just to see where the road might lead. Today let the road take you to Matanzas Creek Winery, a place that offers something for the wine lover, the gardener, the epicurian. Matanzas Creek, which put the bucolic east Santa Rosa neighborhood of Bennett Valley on the map, took its name from the creek that drains away the runoff in the valley. The area enjoys a unique microclimate among North Coast appellations, with cooling influences from several fronts - the Russian River Valley and Petaluma Gap from the west and southwest, and the San Pablo Bay to the south and southeast. Matanzas Creek produces a wide range of wines that reflect the viticultural diversity of Bennett Valley and Sonoma County. Currently the winery is showcasing the many faces of Sauvignon Blanc, the perfect spring and summer season wine produced here in three distinct and delicious styles notable for their beautiful aromatics. Visitors flock to Matanzas Creek in the spring and early summer when the lavender fields are in bloom. Peak lavender season is June, culminating in the Days of Wine and Lavender event on June 29, 2013. Lavender has long been a much celebrated co-star here, and a section of the tasting room is dedicated to a myriad of lavender products including soaps, scents, oils and spa products made at the winery. by Michelle J. Baker Varietals Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and dessert wine What to Taste The Journey wines, crafted from the most pedigreed vineyard sites in Sonoma County. Try the Journey Chardonnay or the Journey Red Wine, a Bordeaux-style blend. New Wine and Cheese Pairing Matanzas Creek now offers a decadent wine and cheese tasting expertly paired and prepared by the winery chefs. Offered all day, every day! Special Tours and Tasting Opportunities Matanzas Creek offers private tours and tasting daily at 10:30am. Choose from a Tour and Vintage Room Tasting or go all out with a Tour, Vintage Room Library Tasting and Cheese Pairing! Reservations required. Little Known Fact You can take a free, self-guided vineyard tour during regular tasting room hours. The walk is less than a mile and is designed for all ages and levels of wine experience. No reservations required.
Matanzas Creek Winery

Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 6097 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 1-800-590-6464 | (707) 528-6464 info@matanzascreek.com www.matanzascreek.com
Mention Day Trips and Receive 10% off a purchase of two bottles or more
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Moondance Cellars
Not everyone in the wine industry takes themselves seriously. Some have a blast doing what they love and enjoying the ride. Priscilla and David Cohen are two of the most friendly, approachable vintners in Sonoma County. Their casual, welcoming tasting room offers exactly the kind of personal, oneof-a-kind wine country experience that many people seek when visiting this famous region. Moondance Cellars is truly a boutique winery, producing small lots of award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel from grapes grown in some of the most celebrated vineyards of Napa, Sonoma, Russian River and Dry Creek Valley. Located in historic Jack London Village, in the sleepy little village of Glen Ellen, Moondance Cellars requires that you take a moment and step off the beaten path. You will be amply awarded for your efforts. Either David or Priscilla themselves will likely be around to greet you and pour their marvelous wines, along with a few tall tales sure to produce a hearty round of laughter at the tasting bar. This is where wine tasting means a darned good time. David and Priscillas white wines are offered as Orchard Station wines. Petaluma and Santa Rosa Railroad ran through the West County hills until the 1940s. The stop Orchard Station was on propety near Sebastopol that is now their home and winery. Orchard Station wines are also award-winning, Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc and an un-oaked Chardonnay from RRV, Sonoma Coast and Gold Ridge grapes. David came by his skills as a winemaker through family connections. His cousin, Bruce Cohn, owns the famous B.R. Cohn Winery. With the assistance of such luminaries of the trade as Helen Turley and the late John Speed, David was able to hone his craft and take his place alongside the best. By Ronda Giangreco FUN FACTS Sonoma Valley Portworks, the only winery in Sonoma County specializing exclusively in after-dinner wines and Ports, shares a spot in the tasting room, where guests can taste up to six Ports and dessert wines. A secret door leads to neighboring Wine Country Chocolates, where tasting dessert after the dessert wines completes the ultimate sweet tooth tasting experience. Winemaker/Hot Rod-Nut, Davids pride and joy is his 1965 blown candy brandy-wine Corvette, soon to share the garage with his latest project, a fuel- injected 1966 Chevy Nova. Priscilla likes to spend as many days off as possible astride her quarter horse gelding, Ima Revin Lena, aka: Teddy, exploring the back country of Sonoma County and its state park treasures.
Moondance Cellars
Open Thursday-Monday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 14301 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 823-0880 info@moondancecellars.com For tours & reservations, call (707) 938-7550 Follow them on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter.
Mention Day Trips for 2 for 1 wine tasting and 10% off wine purchase.
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Eric Ross Winery

If one is charged with finding a perfect wine for the perfect meal, Eric Ross is the place to look. Eric Ross specializes inwines from some of the most prestigious local wine growing regions, varietals originating from France, Spain and even Portugal. Any wine lover can discover a wine that goes with their favorite meal, or simply enjoying a glass on the front porch. Stylistically, each wine makes a sophisticated statement blossoming the longer one savors it with a elegant finish. As you discover a new quality wine with every sip take a moment to experience the photography adorning the tasting room walls. The winemaker, Eric Luse, began his wine journey as a photographer for the San Francisco Chronicle. Fascinated by wine and the wine country lifestyle Luse began college level training of winemaking and viticulture while continuing to photograph vineyard workers asthe seasons changed in the vineyards. Erics photography reflects the personality of his subject and his winemaking follows the same philosophy. Its not about the winemaker its about the vineyard. Whether its theAlbarino, Tempranillo, Grenache or Pinot Noirthey all reflect the personality ofthose specific vineyards. With a total annual production of roughly 3000 cases, Eric Ross does not distribute outside of the tasting room enjoying a robust wine club and tasting room experience. So, stop at Eric Ross, pick up some fabulous wine and open one tonight it is sure to make your dinner exceptional. By Brendan Conroy Wines Not to Miss 2010 Marsanne~Roussanne The two varietals produce a rich nutty floral characteristics of apricot, ripe melon and pear followed by bright acidity and lovely honeyed textures. 2011 Pinot Noir Classic Russian River Valley Pinot Noir aromatic spices with black cherry, ripe plum, cola with bright layers of ripe raspberry. 2010 Tempranillo Lodi sustainable farming produces this rich exotic Spanish varietal showing layers of blackberry, espresso and dark chocolate, followed by hints of dry-cured black Moroccan olives. VARIETALS Albarino, Marsanne-Roussanne, Russian River Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Old Vine Zinfandel, Syrah, Old Vine Zin Port are available by the case or the bottle during regular tasting room hours with 20% discounts available for club members. Learn More Each of Luses photos has a vivid story behind it. Feel free to ask about the individual lives of the vineyard workers that he has so eloquently depicted and memorialized. The beauty of some specific pictures stem from the minimalistic presentation of the photograph contrasted with the depths of emotion in the central point of focus.
Become a Fan of Eric Ross Winery on Facebook!
Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 14300 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 939-8525 | www.ericross.com For private tastings, contact Dennis & Diane (707) 939-8525 or ddmitchell@ericross.com
Eric Ross Winery
Complimentary tasting with purchase with this Day Trip
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Valley of the Moon Winery

The Sonoma Valley was originally called the Valley of the Moon by the Mayacamas Indians that inhabited the valley long before General Mariano Vallejo laid claim to the land in the name of Mexico. Because of the mountains that surround both sides of the valley floor, the Indians thought there were many moons in the night sky. Today, we know Valley of the Moon as one of the top premium wineries in the Sonoma Valley. The history of the Valley of the Moon is as rich and deep as the soil in which its grapes are grown. The winery, the oldest in Glen Ellen, was founded by George Whitman in 1863. Over the years, it was owned by Eli T. Sheppard, a former Consul to China and George Hearst, a United States Senator and father of William Randolph Hearst. Following the prohibition years, the winery was revitalized in 1941 by Parducci and Domenici, two pioneer winegrowers and vintners, until 1956 when the Parducci family took sole control and renamed the winery Valley of the Moon. The family sold the winery to its current owner, F . Korbel & Bros. Inc. in 1997. The tasting room and the grounds of the facility are home to some of the most beautiful vistas in the Sonoma Valley. Plan to spend some time on the grounds and if you are hungry, a variety of charcuterie and cheeses are available in the tasting room for a picnic paired with some of the delicious wines. Winemaker Greg Winter creates a unique flavor of California with his ultra-premium award winning Sonoma wines, embracing both time-honored winemaking tradition and state-of-the-art production. By Mike Hyland VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Port, Pinot Blanc, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Rosato di Sangiovese, Syrah, Cuve de la Luna (red blend), Barbera, Petite Sirah, Sparkling Wine, Brandy Tours Free tours of the winemaking facilities are available daily at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Group Tours of 10-50 people are available by advance reservation $20/pp. Please call (707) 939-4520. Tastings Tasting fees are $10 per person. Hungry while tasting? Starting April 1, enjoy a cheese and charcuterie wine pairing for $25 with local artisanal cheeses and meats.
Valley of the Moon Winery

777 Madrone Road, Glen Ellen CA 95442 (707) 939-4510 www.valleyofthemoonwinery.com Look for them on Facebook & Twitter
Valley of the Moon Winery reminds you that even great wines should be enjoyed in moderation.
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Little Vineyards
Are you looking for a boutique, family-owned winery experience where you can enjoy estate-grown red wines? The Little Family invites you to their 23-acre property nestled in the historical Valley of the Moon region of the Sonoma Valley to enjoy breathtaking views of the Mayacamus and Sonoma Mountains while sampling award-winning wines from the vineyards that surround you. Rich and Joan Little, together with Joans brother and winemaker, Ted Coleman, founded the winery in 2002, releasing their first two vintages, one of which received a gold medal at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair. Their wines continue to receive numerous awards, including a 98 points at the California State Fair for their Cabernet Sauvignon. When visiting the tasting room, step up to the historic Glen Ellen bar previously enjoyed by writer Jack London, who remains a legendary figure in the Sonoma Valley. The Little Family, also gifted musicians, love to bring their passion for music into the tasting room on occasion to entertain their guests, an experience you wont want to miss. Additionally, Rich Little gets together with his Sonoma Valley music buddies once a month for Jammin In The Vineyards, a series that was inaugurated in June of this year. Even with the mountain vistas, the beautiful vineyards and the music, it is the wine that takes center stage at Little Vineyards. The red varietals that are all estate grown are some of the finest in the county. Producing less than 2,500 cases each year, winemaker Ted Coleman creates small lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah and Petite Syrah as well as a series of Band Blend wines, beautiful red blends that come from estate grown grapes. Plus, their first ever Band Blend Ros, a gold medal winner from the San Francisco International Wine competition. Highly recommended Guests are always welcome to picnic on the patio or with advance notice, can order a gourmet picnic box lunch for $30 person. Enjoy lunch, wine and the views among the vineyards. Varietals Little Vineyards Family Winery produces small lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah and Petite Sirah as well as beautiful red blends, all from grapes grown on their estate vineyards. Fun fact A recording studio and rehearsal space on property has brought many well known musicians to the winery, and guests are able to enjoy the abundance of music played by Rich on his Chapman Stick, a guitar-like instrument. Rich Littles hobby of restoring old trucks is something for all visitors to enjoy, especially his 1948 Ford trucks.
Little Vineyards Family Winery

Open Thursday-Monday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 15188 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen CA 95442 (707) 996-2750 | www.littlevineyards.com
Mention this story for a 10% discount on the purchase of two or more bottles of wine.
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B.R. Cohn Winery

Rounding a curve on Highway 12, the sight of the pristine, white farmhouse that is home to the B.R. Cohn Winery looks like a postcard in the making. This small family-operated winery, surrounded by the Olive Hill Estate Vineyards, says Sonoma in a way that no other winery quite can. The vineyards are warmed by underground hot springs, while cool ocean breezes from the west swoop in to create the ideal growing conditions for the B.R. Cohn line of wines, including exceptional Cabernets, Zinfandels, Malbec, Merlots, Petite Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The Olive Hill designation is famous throughout the region for providing the highest quality of grapes and many of the regions top winemakers have utilized fruit from these vineyards in their production of premium wine. But magnificent wine is not the only draw of this popular winery. In 1990, Bruce Cohn began producing gourmet extra virgin olive oil from the 140-year-old Picholine olive trees that dot his land, as well as handcrafted vinegars. His B.R. Cohn Olive Oil is now considered one of the finest examples of ultra-premium olive oil in California. Music is another passion of this very Renaissance man. The Charity Fall Music Festival held at the winery, now in its 27th year, has garnered a loyal following and helped to make the winery a primary destination spot for visitors to the area. Dont miss the Gourmet Shop either, where you can sample their line of gourmet olive oils and hand-crafted vinegars. On the many sunny days that grace this beautiful corner of the world, their patio area provides the perfect location for a picnic and a chance to gaze out at the rolling vineyards surrounding the estate. By Ronda Giangreco Fun facts: Bruce Cohn sold his first crop of grapes to August Sebastiani. The original Picholine olive trees were imported from France in the 1870s and inspired the name Olive Hill Estate Vineyards. Soon-to-be-famous winemaker, Helen Turley, was an early member of the B.R. Cohn team and wowed the wine world with stellar releases of B.R. Cohns first four vintages. Besides owning one of Sonomas most famous wineries, Bruce Cohn is also the manager of the Doobie Brothers.
B.R. Cohn Winery

& Olive Oil Company
Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 15000 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen (707) 938-4064 | www.brcohn.com Email: info@brcohn.com To schedule tours by appointment, call 1-800-330-4064 ext. 124 YouTube: www.youtube.com/brcohnwinery Flicker: www.flickr.com/photos/brcohn Twitter: twitter.com/BRCohn Facebook: www.facebook.com/ brcohnwinery
Step into the Gourmet Shop for a taste through our Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegar
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Loxton Cellars
It has always been my intent to produce wines that show balance and a sense of place and to produce the best wines possible without compromise, says Chris Loxton, a fourth generation winemaker who produced his first wines in 1996. Our winery, in the heart of the Sonoma Valley, is a place where visitors can relate to how the wine tastes, where they are made and by whom. Loxtons father, grandfather and great grandfather were all winegrowers and winemakers in his native Australia, but Chris was so taken with California that he was determined to make wine in the Sonoma Valley. This valley has so much history when it comes to winemaking, says Loxton. Here in my little corner of the world I am surrounded by history Kunde Vineyards established in 1870, Pagnani Vineyards since 1885 and Wellington started in 1890 all surround my property. Some 120 years of growing grapes means there is something right with the soil here. Loxton has taken it upon himself to show off that history to his guests by giving a personally guided Vineyard Walk of his property to show his various vineyards and why they are played where they are. Its the soil that dictates what to grow and where to grow it, says Loxton, not the winegrower. Following the 30 to 45 minute walking tour of the property, Loxton brings his guests back to the tasting room for a special, sit down tasting, explaining the nuances in each of the wines that are being sampled. The tour schedules will increase during the summer months, and start around 10:30 a.m. Reservations are recommended. By Mike Hyland Highly recommended If visiting Loxton Cellars on a weekend, call ahead (707935-7221) and reserve a spot for the Vineyard Walk with owner/winemaker Chris Loxton. The educational tour takes about 90 minutes and ends with a special tasting. Varietals Chardonnay (2), Pinot Noir, Zinfandel (2), Syrah (4), Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Red Blends, Port Dont miss New releases of the 2010 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, gold medal at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair; 2010 Chardonnay Hawk Hill Vineyard (Russian River Valley) a silver medal winner at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair; and the 2010 Port another gold medal winner at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair and made from 100% Syrah fruit.
Loxton Cellars
Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 11466 Dunbar Road Glen Ellen, CA 95442 (707) 935-7221 www.loxtoncellars.com
Dont miss the Walkabout Tours on Saturday and Sunday mornings, only $15 per person.
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Things to Do Sebastiani Theatre LOXTON Beltane Ranch Sonoma Plaza 476 First St. East, on the Plaza, Sonoma CELLARS (707) 996-2020, www.sebastianitheatre.com Picturesque city plaza boasts unique shops, fine art galleries, award-winning restauEnjoy an eclectic blend of cinema and live rants and fine wines available for tasting. entertainment that includes critically Historic points include: MissionGaige San Franacclaimed art, foreign, and classic films, House cisco de Solano, Barracks, Toscano contemporary and vintage music, magic, Inn Hotel, Bear Flag statue. ballet, opera and musical theatre built CH RD. Quarry Hill Botanical Garden Glen Ellen Star RAN N Jack London DO Glen Ellen Inn N in 1933. Garden Court Cafe State Park LO Bouverie Preserve Jack London Lodge Sonoma TrainTown Railroad Glen Ellen 20264 Broadway, Sonoma Village Market Ramekins Culinary School (707) 938-3912, www.traintown.com 450 West Spain St, Sonoma ERIC ROSS Yeti (707) 933-0450, www.ramekins.com The Most Well-Developed Scale Railroad BR COHN MOONDANCE in the Americas! Steam andLITTLE diesel scale Experience the essence of Sonoma Wine CELLARS The Red Barn Store railroad rides, petting zoo, VINEYARDS miniature town, at Oak Country Hill Farm with cooking classes, events ferris wheel and carousel rides. even four-day culinary retreats!
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grasses minimal in the vineyards. But no doubt you will also find countless award-winning wineries and world-class restaurants throughout all of Sonoma. Living in Sonoma Valley is all about life, about taste and enjoying each day. Sonomans are very proud of their heritage and their town. MATANZAS Excellence is what they do its just done in blue jeans. CREEK Food Della Santinas 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 935-0576, www.dellasantinas.com Traditional Italian fare is based upon Quirico Della Santinas family recipes growing up in Lucca, Italy and his sheer talent as a chef; cozy dining room, marble fireplace, patio and Enoteca Wine Bar. Swiss Hotel Bar & Restaurant 18 West Spain Street,Sonoma (707) 938-2884, www.swisshotelsonoma.com Located on the Plaza, this historic bar is a favorite among locals who can often be seen seated on the sidewalk patio enjoying modern renditions of classical Italian fare . Hopmonk Tavern 691 Broadway, Sonoma (707) 935-9100, www.hopmonk.com Large selection of beers; traditional and innovative pairings of beer and food. Check the website for live music. Girl & The Fig 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma (707) 938-3634, www.thegirlandthefig.com Country food restaurant with a French passion. Lodging El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen 405 1st Street West, Sonoma (707) 996-3220, www.eldoradosonoma.com 27-room contemporary boutique hotel located on the Plaza. Restaurant is sophisticated urban style with relaxed wine-country dining. Sonoma Hotel 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma (707) 996-2996, www.sonomahotel.com A 16-room, 19th-century hotel with modern amenities. Located downtown on the plaza. MacArthur Place 29 E. MacArthur Street, Sonoma (707) 938-2929, www.macarthurplace.com 19th-century estate transformed into a luxurious inn and spa featuring Saddles Sonomas best steakhouse The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa 1325 Broadway, Sonoma (707) 935-6600, www.thelodgeatsonoma.com Spacious and luxurious accommodations; world-class Raindance Spa; award-winning Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar; excellent venue for weddings and corporate events.
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CAVEDAL Depot Museum THE MOON Home of General Vallejo E 270 First St. West, Sonoma Lachryma Montis MOON MT N (707) 938-1762, www.vom.com/depot West of the plaza on W. Spain St., $3 Open 1-4:30 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday 1850s Victorian house furnished with AGUA CA LIENTE ROAD Vallejos personal effects - as though the Fine museum with historically significant General and his wife had just stepped out. collections. Admission is free.
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Charles Creek Vineyard

The wholesome, unpretentious charm of the Sonoma Plaza is undeniable. Fortunately for the Charles Creek Vineyard Tasting Room, it is also the view out their front door. Being located directly across from the historic stone city hall and leafy expanses of the famous Sonoma Plaza is certainly an advantage, but having award-winning wines to pour is really the true measure of a tasting rooms draw for the wine lovers who flock to the Sonoma Valley. The Charles Creek Winery does not fail to deliver. Among the multiple award-winning Chardonnays in current release, their 2010 Las Patolitas Sonoma County Chardonnay was awarded two gold medals as well as a 94-point rating (from the California State Fair). Created when Bill and Gerry Brinton, the descendants of Midwestern farm stock, took the step to expand their little family vineyard into a real commercial winery. Charles Creek Winery specializes in Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon as well as small lots of a refreshingly dry ros and a soon-tobe-released Carneros Pinot Noir from the vintage of 2012. The Brintons are also dedicated to showcasing the work of local artists. One very eye-catching piece, however, is not for sale. Ms. Moolot a near-life-sized cow made entirely of wine corks graces the middle of the tasting roomin fact, she nearly takes over the space. But no one complains. Shes a whimsical addition to the tasting room and famous for happily posing with visitors. She has appeared in literally thousands of vacation photos and has become an icon of the winery. By Ronda Giangreco Fun Facts Charles Creek Winerys Tecolote Wine Club is named after his grandmother. It is Spanish for owl and was his grandfathers nickname for her. Bill Brinton is a direct descendent of John Deere, who gained fame and fortune as the inventor of the self-scouring steel plow and started one of Americas most successful companies. Charles Creek is named after Bill and Gerrys son, Charley.
Charles Creek Vineyard

Open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 483 First Street West, on the Sonoma Plaza (707) 935-3848 | www.charlescreek.com Find them on Facebook and Twitter
Show your Day Trips guide and receive complimentary tasting (up to 4 persons) and a special discount: 10% off 3 bottles or 20% off any case of 12. Does not combine with other discount offers.
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Bryter Estates
Take a stroll through the quaint Sonoma Court Shops, off the plaza, and discover BRYTER Estates, a boutique family winery, offering premier, small-lot wines that are sure to delight the senses. Winemaker and proprietor, Terin Ignozzi, handcrafts award-winning wines by applying old world winemaking techniques with the finest selection of fruit from the Napa, Sonoma and Santa Barbara Regions, resulting in perfectly balanced, elegant wines. The BRYTER Estates Tasting Salon symbolizes their passion for exceptional wines, delicious food and fine art. The rustically chic styled room is warm and welcoming with its bright window seating, soft lighting and earth-tone tiled floors. The front counter faade is made of reclaimed redwood from the Ignozzis 100-year-old barn, and the counter top is made of a cool feeling zinc. Showcased on the walls, is a rotating display of original art pieces by masters Dali, Chagall and Vlaminck, featured local artists, or gorgeous photos showcasing their vineyards, depending on the season. BRYTER Estates delivers on their promise of California treasured wines, producing nine varietals such as, the Double Gold award winning Affine, a lightly oaked crisp Chardonnay, with notes of apple, pear and zesty lemon. BRYTER is also the proud recipient of the Best of California Award for their 2009 Napa Valley Inspired Cabernet Sauvignon with rich velvety tannins, balanced oak and fruit. OVERALL PHILOSOPHY Let nature take its course, bringing the beauty of old world style winemaking to every perfectly balanced bottle of BRYTER Estates wine. WHAT TO TASTE Le Stelle North Coast Brut is a sparkling wine you must try. Le Stelle delivers bright flavors of citrus and pear with beautiful floral aromas and a crisp finish. Best of Class, 2012 California State Fair. VARIETALS PRODUCED Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese and Marsanne FUN FACTS Winemaker, Terin Ignozzi, first learned how to make wine from her Italian grandparents.
BRYTER Estates
Open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 25 East Napa Street, Suite E, Sonoma www.bryter.com (707) 501-8757 www.facebook.com/BryterEstates
BRYTER Estates Inspired Cabernet Sauvignon... Best of California (2012 Cal State Fair).
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Della Santinas
Located off the historic square, Della Santinas is a familyowned and operated restaurant that has stood the test of time to become a Sonoma institution. The Della Santina family name shares a long lineage and history in the Tuscan town of Lucca, Italy. My father Quirico Salvatore Giovanni Della Santina migrated from Lucca in 1960. Residing in the North Beach area of San Francisco, Quirico became a baker by trade. Later, he was lured to Marin County by his uncle Adolph to work in the family restaurant: Marin Joes. After 25 years of successful ownership in a thriving business, he decided to go out on his own in beautiful Sonoma Valley. Since 1990, we have continued to bring Tuscan country cooking to the wine country using recipes passed down from my grandmothers Pia Fontana Della Santina and Clary Gambogi Barsotti. In 2008, we opened Enoteca Della Santina, a wine bar and retail wine shop specializing in wines from all over the world. Enoteca, translated literally in Italian, means wine library a place for people to enjoy a glass in an Old World ambiance. Along with my partner and fellow wine enthusiast Ron Kantor, we created a showcase for international as well as local, small producers. Our wine club has circumvented the globe looking for value selections that expand our members palates and knowledge. Day to day, the bar is a gathering spot for locals and tourists looking to experience a taste of Sonoma Wine Country living. By Robert Della Santina
Enoteca Della Santina Next Door Sonomas Best Wine Bar More than 300 selections of domestic and international wines at competitive prices 30 wines by the glass, customized flights and specialty beers Assorted cheeses and panini served daily Winemaker dinners and educational seminars, call for schedule Thursdays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. Burger Thursdays Sundays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. Sausage and Suds Both locations are available for private events.
Della Santinas
The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; reservations are recommended. 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 935-0576 www.dellasantinas.com
Open late in the evenings, closed Mondays. 127 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 938-4200 www.enotecadellasantina.com
Enoteca Della Santina
Wine Bar Enoteca Della Santina is open late most evenings!
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Wine Country Cyclery offers the perfect way to truly capture the grandeur of the Sonoma Valley. Why hassle with traffic when you can leisurely pedal to some of the valleys most celebrated tasting rooms. Wine Country visitors who simply fly by the vineyards at fifty miles per hour are missing out on the very best aspects of the experience. The aroma of the grapes, the warmth of the sun and sound of gentle breezes rustling through the vines are best enjoyed at a much more relaxed pace. The knowledgeable staff at Wine Country Cyclery will gladly help you plan an unforgettable winery tour, supplying you with maps and tasting room coupons. The shop is conveniently located just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma and offers a wide range of bikes for every skill level and age of cyclist. Their fleet of road bikes features some of the very best, including Cannondale EVOs and Trek Madones. They also have helmets and pedals. If you are planning on bringing your own bicycle to the wine country, Wine Country Cyclery has experienced mechanics available seven days a week to do last minute adjustments or make quick repairs. And, to finish off your day of adventure and sunshine, Wine Country Cyclery can arrange for you to savor a lite bite food and wine pairing at Roche Family Winery tasting room. With award-winning wines and the scrumptious offerings of the Sunflower Caffe, youll enjoy the perfect ending to your trip on their patio, gathered around the firepit, wine glass in hand. They even offer extended hours for late arrivals. Fun Facts Wine Country Cyclery boasts the youngest rental fleet of comfort hybrid bikes, replacing them yearly. Their high-end road bikes are continuously maintained for top performance. Already a cycling pro? Bring your own pedals, shoes, even your saddle a certified fitter will personally size you to your rental bike. If youre coming from far away, ship your bike to Wine Country Cyclery...theyll put it together and have it waiting for you. When youre ready to leave, theyll pack it carefully for a safe shipment back. Dont own your own equipment? They have a selection of helmets, locks and pedals such as Shimano, Look and SpeedPlay. Packing a picnic? Wine Country Cyclery has bike trailers that can hold all of your goodies, as well as your wine purchases along the way! Make it a family trip! Wine Country Cyclery has Tag-a-Long bikes that allow kids to enjoy the ride, too, as well as bike trailers that can seat two small children.

Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 262 W Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 (707) 996-6800 winecountrycyclery.com Follow Wine Country Cyclery on Facebook!
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Los Carneros
On the south end of Sonoma is one of the most unique appellations, Los Carneros, that bridges both Napa and Sonoma counties. Colloquially known as simply Carneros (or ram in Spanish), Carneros has long been known for its cool, coastal climate, natural beauty and unparalleled Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, Syrahs and sparkling wines. Things to Do Sonoma Country Antiques 23999 Arnold Drive (Hwy 121), Sonoma (707) 938-8315 www.sonomaantiques.com Buyers have been traveling to Europe for over three decades, hand selecting one-ofa-kind antiques and accessories. Explore and be inspired in our 10,000 square feet of elegantly designed showrooms. Cornerstone Sonoma 23570 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 933-3010 www.cornerstonegardens.com CornerStone Sonoma is an eclectic collection of shops, wineries and a gourmet cafe set amidst nine acres of garden installations created by the worlds leading landscape architects. Vintage Aircraft Co. 3982 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 938-2444 www.vintageaircraft.com Get a birds eye view of the rolling hills carpeted in vineyards all the way to San Francisco and beyond! Offering safe, exciting flying experiences since 1975. Food Fremont Diner 2698 Fremont Drive, Sonoma (707) 938-7370 www.thefremontdiner.com Like em on Facebook Old-fashioned style roadside hamburger joint with updated menu. Fresh, local ingredients. Try the pulled-pork sandwich or grilled cheese with sage and be sure to splurge on the milkshakes! Sonomas Best 1190 East Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 (707) 996-7600, www.sonomas-best.com The old-fashioned landmark store offers food products for which the County of Sonoma is famous artisanal cheeses, salads and soups, tamales, charcuterie, pastries and ice cream along with exquisite Blue Bottle Coffee. Schellville Grill 22900 Broadway, Sonoma (707) 996-5151, www.schellvillegrill.com BBQ fare, sandwiches and burgers. Dynamite food, according to Guy Fieri, with better 12 than any store-bought barbecue sauce.
Viansa Tasting Room& Marketplace 25200 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA, 95476 (707) 935-4726, www.viansa.com Viansa is the perfect place to have a relaxing lunch they offer fresh made sandwiches, salads, antipasti, soups, and fruit salads to enjoy with Viansa wines and phenomenal views. Weahter permitting, you can also enjoy a game of bocce ball! Lodging El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen 405 1st Street West, Sonoma (707) 996-3220, www.eldoradosonoma.com 27-room contemporary boutique hotel located on the Plaza. Restaurant is sophisticated urban style with relaxed winecountry dining. Sonoma Hotel 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma (707) 996-2996, www.sonomahotel.com A 16-room, 19th-century hotel with modern amenities. Located downtown on the plaza.
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Lodge at Sonoma
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Sonoma Country Antiques
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JACUZZI VIANSA
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Vintage Aircraft Co.
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CornerStone Sonoma
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LARSON FAMILY 121 MEADOWCROFT WINES
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MacArthur Place 29 E. MacArthur Street, Sonoma (707) 938-2929, www.macarthurplace.com 19th-century estate transformed into a luxurious inn and spa featuring Saddles Sonomas best steakhouse Fremont Diner
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VIL KE LA LE . RD
Driving Time: 5 minutes From Viansa to Cline >1 mile to Jacuzzi 0 miles to Meadowcroft >1 mile to Larson Family >2 miles Total 3 miles
The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa 1325 Broadway, Sonoma (707) 935-6600, www.thelodgeatsonoma.com Spacious and luxurious accommodations; world-class TO N APA Raindance Spa; award-winning Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar; excellent venue for weddings and corporate events.
Viansa Winery
Discover Little Italy in Sonoma Wine Country!
Viansa Winery & Marketplace, located just off Highway 121, magically transports you to Tuscany, Italy. When you arrive, you are welcomed by a St. Francis of Assisi statue, petting his dog. Drive up the road and set your eyes on rows of grapevines, tall Cypress trees, elegant rose gardens and Italian fountains. Nestled at the top of the hill stands Viansas Tuscan Villa with breathtaking views of Sonoma Valley. Viansa is a rich mixture of traditions with its family history, Tuscan architecture, fine winemaking and culinary offerings. Sonomas Italian winemakers, the Sebastianis, created Viansa in order to share their love of good wine, good food and Italian heritage. Current owner, Lloyd Davis continues their commitment to Italian-inspired wines and foods, going to great lengths to pair homemade Italian recipes with selected wines. As the premier producer of Cal-Ital wines, Viansa draws wine lovers from all over the world to explore a unique array of wine varietals. Two of Viansas award-winning wines are the 2011 Pinot Grigio and 2010 Estate Primitivo, both receiving multiple medals in 2012 and 2013. The winerys marketplace offers specialty foods, including sandwiches, salads, artisan cheeses and desserts. The marketplace also sells unique merchandise ranging from imported artwork and ceramics, to wine accessories, tapenades and dipping oils. Viansa wines are only available at the winery, through Viansas Tuscan Club or at www.viansa.com. Viansa also hosts special events, and reserve tastings. With Viansas choices of things to see, and do, your day at Viansa will be one to remember! By Monica Dashwood FUN FACTS Viansas Tuscan Villa is a replica of a monastery in Italy. There are over 500 species of birds sighted on the winerys 113 acre wetlands. Enjoy lunch on the patio wine perfectly paired with pizza made from Viansas very own wood-fired oven. Viansa also offers unique Italian inspired wine and food pairings by appointment. VARIETALS PRODUCED Viansa produces 18 popular and distinct varietals, like Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Barbera, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as well as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Arneis, Vernaccia, Primitivo and Sangiovese. WINES TO TASTE ON YOUR VISIT 2011 Pinot Grigio: Crisp and refreshing. Citrus, guava, and green apple with hints of flowers and minerals. 2010 Estate Primitivo: Shows ripe boysenberry, plum, vanilla, oak spice and black pepper.
Viansa Winery
Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 25200 Arnold Drive, Sonoma 1-800-995-4740 | www.viansa.com pinterest.com/viansawinery www.facebook.com/ ViansaWineryVineyards
Present this offer to your Viansa host and receive a 25% savings on wine purchases, 10% on food and gift, and preferred pricing on events! Limit 2 guests per visit.
Become a Wine Club Member for a day.
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Cline Cellars
Wine tasting is never just about the wine. A picturesque winery, warm and welcoming hosts, and a bucolic setting in which to enjoy a picnic, all combine to produce the memories everyone hopes for when they set out to visit the wine country. No place delivers all three better than Cline Cellars on the southern edge of Sonoma. Fred Cline and his wife Nancy moved their winery from its original home in Oakley in order to enjoy the magnificent splendor of the Sonoma countryside, as well as to take advantage of the long and fruitful growing season that the Carneros region offers. Their tasting room, located in an 1850s farmhouse, is surrounded by lush green lawns, six spring-fed ponds and a glorious array of flowers, including more than 5,000 rose bushes. The scene is the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of wine tasting, a wedding or a special event. Their historic 350-acre estate is planted to Syrah, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, producing wines that have consistently garnered rave reviews. But it is Freds passion for the Rhone varietals that have made the winery famous. Syrah, Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne flourish on the estate and produce award-winning wines that have visitors coming back time and time again to this quintessential Sonoma winery. By Ronda Giangreco Fun Fact The vineyards were once the site of a Miwok village, as well as the site of the original Sonoma Mission before it was moved to downtown Sonoma. Must See The California Missions Museum is a marvelous collection of scale models of all of the California missions. The models first debuted at the 1939 Worlds Fair at Treasure Island and are acclaimed as an extraordinary and accurate depiction of California history. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Winery Tours/Tasting Tours are available at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. daily. Complimentary tasting is offered daily. Private tastings can be arranged by appointment. Visit clinecellars.com/tastings to plan your visit. Whats Coming Up Swirl, sip and savor on top of Clines Syrah Hill. See website for details about this unique experience.
Cline Cellars
Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 24737 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 940-4030 | www.clinecellars.com For tours & reservations visit clinecellars.com/tastings
Follow them at facebook.com/clinewine and on Twitter @clinecellars
Join the Wine Club and receive special offers and discounts on wines.
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Jacuzzi Family Vineyards

The sun is shining on an endless sea of vineyards. Youre sipping a luscious glass of Sangiovese and dipping fresh bread in a bowl of rich, buttery olive oil. A scene from a villa in Tuscany? No, just another perfect afternoon at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards in Sonoma. The Jacuzzi family first emigrated from Italy in the early 1900s to work on the railroad. Eventually, the Jacuzzi brothers would venture into the aviation business, the spa business and to the delight of visitors to the Sonoma Valley, the wine business. The vineyards lie primarily in the Carneros wine region that stretches between Napa and Sonoma. Here, the winery sits on one hundred and ninety acres of lush, fertile land that boasts rolling green hills and the historic flatlands of the San Pablo Bay. Concentrating on Italian wines, Jacuzzi Family Vineyards produces Barbera, Montepulciano, Moscato Bianco, Dolcetto, Aleatico, Aglianico, Primitivo and historic, hardto-find varietals such as Lagrein and Vernaccia. There is no need for a passport to be transported to the wine regions of Italy, just a short drive to Sonoma will provide all the charm, scenery and magnificent wines of the country without the time and expense of overseas travel. No visit to the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards is complete without a stop by The Olive Press Olive Oil Tasting Room and Gift Shop. Dedicated to anything and everything having to do with olives and olive oil, the shop offers samples of the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards award-winning olive oil that was inspired by the rich olive oils of Italy and Southern France. By Ronda Giangreco Fun Tip Enjoy wine and pizza in the piazza the last Sunday of every month. See website for details. Wine Tours While the tasting room is open daily for complimentary tastings, wine tours are available only by appointment. Visit jacuzziwines.com/tastings to view options or call (707) 931-7576 and they will gladly help you arrange a guided tour, food and wine pairings and more. Dont Miss The Jacuzzi Family museum, a fascinating collection of photos and memorabilia documenting this amazing Italian American familys history.
Jacuzzi Family Vineyards

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 24724 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 931-7575 www.jacuzziwines.com For tours & reservations, visit jacuzziwines.com/tastings Follow them on Facebook: facebook.com/jacuzziwines and Twitter: @JacuzziWines
Join the Wine Club and receive special offers and discounts on wines.
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Meadowcroft Wines
The Meadowcroft Wines tasting room is located at the gateway to the Sonoma Valley within a unique collection of shops, art galleries, dining, sculpture trails and architectural gardens called Cornerstone Sonoma. The recently redecorated tasting room is big and bright welcoming you to a wine country tasting room that is truly more than just a tasting room. Visitors can taste the award-winning wines at the bar or seated at indoor tables or at outdoor patio tables. There is also the new outdoor lavender lounge area complete with comfortable seating, umbrellas and a fire pit. But what people really come to Meadowcroft for is the wine. There are three labels being poured in the Meadowcroft Wines tasting room; Meadowcroft Wines, Thomas Henry Wines and Foyt Family Wines (honoring Indy racing legend A.J. Foyt). Winemaker Tom Meadowcroft crafts his wines from estate and other sustainably farmed vineyards in Napa and Sonoma. The tasting room is preparing events for the spring and summer months. Weather permitting, the weekend Vineyard Tours are now available each Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. where guests are given a glass of Meadowcroft Pinot Noir and then tour and learn about the vineyard where the wine in their glass was grown. Another ongoing tasting room treat is the cheese and chocolate pairings featuring a variety of fresh cheeses procured from some of the best creameries in Sonoma County as well as Meadowcrofts own chocolate truffles all stunningly presented alongside Meadowcroft wines. So, whether you stop in to enjoy their wines in the tasting room, the patio or even in the gardens, Meadowcroft Wines should be your first stop in Wine Country. Meadowcroft Wines is very family and dog friendly. By Mike Hyland VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Riesling, Ros, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Sangiovese, Meritage, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and a Port-like dessert wine UPCOMING EVENTS Bottle Capping & Labeling Party March 23 April in Carneros wine tasting April 20-21 Winemaker Dinner April 25 Wine Club Pickup Party May 11 Wine Club Food & Wine Tasting Parties June 29, July 27 & August 31
Meadowcroft Wines
Open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (707) 934-4090 www.meadowcroftwines.com www.facebook.com/ drinkmeadowcroftwines twitter.com/#!/catchthebuzz
Mention Day Trips for 2 for 1 wine tasting.
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Larson Family Winery

With so many wineries to visit in the beautiful wine country, its easy to miss the hidden gems. There is one off the beaten path that is worth finding: The Larson Family Winery, located at the intersection of Hwy 121 and Broadway, across from the Shellville Fire Station. Driving through, you will pass rows of Chardonnay vines taking in the warm California sun. Nearby, a redwood barn draws you in to experience Larsons down to earth, fun-loving, hard-working, dog-loving, country lifestyle. The Larson Family Winery has been in the family since 1899. As you walk into their rustic barnyard tasting room, over the wine bar, hangs a hand painted mural, chronicling the history of the family and the heritage of the property. This colorful painting takes you back to the days of the Wild West from steamboats, rodeos, racehorses and polo ponies to the current winery surrounded by lush green vineyards. With roots in the western region of the Carneros appellation, and 70 acres of vineyard to work with, the Larson Family Winery produces over 10 delicious varietals. Larsons award-winning wines are the 2009 Millerick Road meritage blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc. The 2009 Larson Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a complex and well-balanced wine revealing aromas of cedars, clove, vanilla, coffee and spice. The 2009 3 Lab Cab is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Malbec. These magnificent wines and more are available only at the winery, on-line or through their wine club. Dont miss the best of the best! Bring the whole family for some fun in the sun. Pack a picnic, taste the finest wines in Sonoma Valley, play bocce ball, or take a beautiful walk with your dog along Sonoma Creek, you are in for a picture perfect day! By Monica L. Dashwood OVERALL PHILOSOPHY Hurry down because, We drink what we can, and sell the rest! FUN FACTS The Larson Family Winery named their 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Three Lab Cab after their wonderful labs, Sunny, Bubby and Pete, the inspiration for this full-bodied wine. Larson Family Winery offers 1-liter jug wines: Wingo White and Sonoma Red. The Larson Family Winery four-bedroom Civil War-era farm house is now available for over-night stays! VARIETALS PRODUCED Sparkling Brut, Sparkling Ros, Pinot Grigio, Gewrztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
Larson Family Winery

Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.daily Intersection of Hwy. 121 & Broadway, across from the Shellville Fire Station 23355 Millerick Road, Sonoma 1-800-938-WINE (9463) www.larsonfamilywinery.com www.facebook.com/larsonfamilywinery www.twitter.com/larsonfamilywinery
Mention Day Trips and receive 2-for1 wine tasting.

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Do the Math
One of the questions most asked when it comes to wine is how much of this does it take to make that, and so on. We wont pretend that its simple, but here are some industry statistics that will give a pretty good answer to that query. As with anything agricultural, of course, they are all based on countless variables when it comes to acre yields, but this is a good starting point. The rest of the information varies little if at all.
A case of wine includes:
=
A single bottle contains:
750 ml of wine which is 25.6 ounces made from about 2.4 pounds of grapes (39 oz.) and is enough for four or maybe five glasses.
a dozen 750 ml bottles (or 24 half bottles) or 307.2 ounces total, which comes from 30 pounds of grapes.
five tons of grapes (though it is also less, depending on a variety of farming and winemaking practices, and on the varietal and the vineyard One standard oak barrel of wine holds: location) which will give you 797 gallons of juice 295 bottles of wine (or 59 gallons) made from 740 pounds of grapes (or thirteen-and-a-half barrels) which is pretty close which works out to almost but not precisely 24 cases of wine. to four thousand bottles of wine.
An acre of vineyard land can give the grower:
What does all that information on a wine label mean?
XYZ Winery
RESERVE
Dry Creek Sonoma County
The U.S. Department of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms regulates wine labels and requires that information be given in a straightforward way. Basically, you will want to look for the types of grapes grown, where the grapes are grown and when the grapes were picked. Brand name Designation for a special wine Vineyard or appellation known for its grapes might be designated Location where the grapes used were grown Grape Variety used Vintage year in which the grapes were picked Location where the wine was made and/or bottled (Not to be confused with the area the grapes are grown.) Alcohol content may be stated or the the label may simply say "Table Wine
ZINFANDEL
2002
Produced and Bottled by XYZ winery, Healdsburg, California
ALCOHOL 14.6% BY VOLUME
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fine dining
GEYSERVILLE Catellis 21047 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville; 707 857-3471 Contemporary American and Italian Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria 21021 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville; 707 814-0111 Italian Francis Ford Coppolas Rustic 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville; 707 857-1462 Italian Homan House 21712 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville; 707 857-3624 HEALDSBURG Cafe Lucia 235 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 431-1113 Bistro Ralph 109 Plaza Street, Healdsburg; 707 433-1380 Campo Fina 330 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 395-4640 Charcuturie 335 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 431-7213 Healdsburg Bar & Grill 245 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 433-3333 Madrona Manor 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg; 707 433-1542 Ravenous 420 Center Street, Healdsburg; 707 431-1302 Spoonbar 219 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 433-7222 Willis Seafood & Raw Bar 403 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 433-9191 Portuguese Contemporary American and French Italian French Grill Californina Mediterranean Seafood Contemporary American Homemade American
Bear Republic Brewing Co. 345 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 433-2337 Traditional American
Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen 317 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 431-0330 Contemporary American
Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar 344 Center St, Healdsburg; 707 473-0946 Contemporary American GUERNEVILLE/FORESTVILLE Applewood Inn 13555 Hwy 116, Guerneville; 707 869-9093 Farmhouse 7871 River Road, Forestville; 707 887-3300 SANTA ROSA Cae Portono 535 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa; 707 578-3096 Equus Restaurant 101 Fountrain Grove Parkway, Santa Rosa; 707 578-0149 Jack and Tonys 115 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa; 707 526-4347 La Gare 208 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa; 707 528-4355 Syrah Bistro 205 5th Street, Santa Rosa; 707 568-4002 Contemporary American Californian French Contemporary American and French John Ash & Co. Restaurant 4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa; 707 527-7687 Italian Contemporary American
Zazu Restaurant & Farm 3535 Guerneville Rd, Santa Rosa; 707 523-4814 Traditional American WINDSOR Ume 8710 Old Redwood Highway, Windsor; 707 838-6700 Japanese
74 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
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Della Santinas
Located off the historic square, Della Santinas is a familyowned and operated restaurant that has stood the test of time to become a Sonoma institution. The Della Santina family name shares a long lineage and history in the Tuscan town of Lucca, Italy. My father Quirico Salvatore Giovanni Della Santina migrated from Lucca in 1960. Residing in the North Beach area of San Francisco, Quirico became a baker by trade. Later, he was lured to Marin County by his uncle Adolph to work in the family restaurant: Marin Joes. After 25 years of successful ownership in a thriving business, he decided to go out on his own in beautiful Sonoma Valley. Since 1990, we have continued to bring Tuscan country cooking to the wine country using recipes passed down from my grandmothers Pia Fontana Della Santina and Clary Gambogi Barsotti. In 2008, we opened Enoteca Della Santina, a wine bar and retail wine shop specializing in wines from all over the world. Enoteca, translated literally in Italian, means wine library a place for people to enjoy a glass in an Old World ambiance. Along with my partner and fellow wine enthusiast Ron Kantor, we created a showcase for international as well as local, small producers. Our wine club has circumvented the globe looking for value selections that expand our members palates and knowledge. Day to day, the bar is a gathering spot for locals and tourists looking to experience a taste of Sonoma Wine Country living. By Robert Della Santina
Enoteca Della Santina Next Door Sonomas Best Wine Bar More than 300 selections of domestic and international wines at competitive prices 30 wines by the glass, customized flights and specialty beers Assorted cheeses and panini served daily Winemaker dinners and educational seminars, call for schedule Thursdays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. Burger Thursdays Sundays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. Sausage and Suds Both locations are available for private events.
Della Santinas
The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; reservations are recommended. 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 935-0576 www.dellasantinas.com
Open late in the evenings, closed Mondays. 127 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 938-4200 www.enotecadellasantina.com
Enoteca Della Santina
Wine Bar Enoteca Della Santina is open late most evenings!
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fine dining
SEBASTOPOL GTOs Seafood House 234 South Main Street, Sebastopol; 707 824-9922 Hopmonk Tavern 230 Petaluma Avenue, Sebastopol; 707 829-7300 Seafood Traditional American
SONOMA VALLEY Caf Citti 9049 Highway 12, Kenwood; 704 833-2690 Cafe La Haye 140 E Napa Street, Sonoma; 707-935-5994 Centre Du Vin 480 First Street East, Sonoma; 707 996-9779 Della Santinas Trattoria 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma; 707 935-0576 El Dorado Kitchen 405 1st Street West, Sonoma; 707 996-3220 Fig Cafe & Wine Bar 13690 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 938-2130 Girl & The Fig 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma; 707 938-3634 Glen Ellen Inn Oyster Grill & Martini Bar & Secret Cottages 13670 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 996-6409 Glen Ellen Star 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 343-1384 Hopmonk Sonoma 691 Broadway, Sonoma; 707 935-9100 Kenwood Restaurant 9900 Hwy 12, Kenwood; 707 833-6326 Italian Contemporary American French Italian
Contemporary American Contemporary American French Contemporary American Traditional American Traditional American Contemporary American/French Portuguese Mexican Thai Steakhouse and Seafood French Italian
LaSalette Restaurant 452 First St East, Ste H, Sonoma; 707 938-1927 Maya Restaurant 101 East Napa Street, Sonoma; 707 935-3500 Rin's Thai Restaurant 139 East Napa Street, Sonoma; 707 938-1462 Saddles Steakhouse 29 East MacArthur St, Sonoma; 707 938-3191 Sante 100 Boyes Boulevard, Boyes Hot Springs; 707 938-9000 Swiss Hotel Bar & Restaurant 18 West Spain St, Sonoma; 707 938-2884 Taste of the Himalayas 464 First St East, Sonoma; 707 996-1161 Yeti Restaurant 14301 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 996-9930
Himalayan and Nepali Indian and Nepali
PETALUMA Central Market 42 Petaluma Blvd North, Petaluma; 707 778-9900 Cucina Paradiso 114 Petaluma Blvd. N, Petaluma; 707 782-1130 Grazianos Ristorante 170 Petaluma Blvd, Petaluma; 707 762-5997 Risibisi Restaurant & Wine Bar 154 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma; 707 766-7600 Contemporary American Italian Italian Italian
72 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
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Chardo nnay
Find Your Favorite Varietals

Alderbrook Winery Healdsburg, 707-433-5987 Ancient Oaks Santa Rosa, (707-536-1546 Armida Winery Healdsburg, 707-433-2222 B.R. Cohn Winery Glen Ellen, 707-938-4064 BRYTER Estates Sonoma, 707-501-8272 Cellars of Sonoma Santa Rosa, 707-578-1826 Chalk Hill Estate Healdsburg, 707-657-4837 Charles Creek Vineyard Sonoma, 707-935-3848 Chateau St. Jean Kenwood, 1-800-543-7572 Christopher Creek Healdsburg, 707-433-2001 Cline Cellars Sonoma, 707-940-4030 DArgenzio Santa Rosa, 707-546-2466 De La Montanya Healdsburg, 707-433-3711 Dry Creek Vineyard Healdsburg, 707-433-1000 Dutcher Crossing Winery Healdsburg, 707-431-2700 En Garde Kenwood, 707-282-9216 Eric Ross Winery Glen Ellen, 707-939-8525 Family Wineries of Dry Creek Valley Healdsburg, 888-433-6555 Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery Healdsburg, 707-433-6700 Forchini Vineyards & Winery Healdsburg, 707-431-8886 Fritz Underground Winery Cloverdale, 1-800-418-9463 Hook & Ladder Winery & Vineyards Santa Rosa, 707-526-2255 Jacuzzi Family Vineyards Sonoma, 707-931-7575
P 24 P 41 P 23 P 57 P 61 P 40 P 30 P 60 P 47 P 25 P 66 P 42 P 22 P 20 P 14 P 48 P 54 P 17 P 13 P 15 P 12 P 37 P 10
Pinot B lanc
Gewurz tra
Pinot G ri Pinot G s/ rigio
Sauvign on Blan c
miner
Riesling
Viognie r

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Other

C ab S au
Barbera Cabern et Fran c vignon

Carigna
ne Grenach e Malbec
Merlot Petite S irah

Petit Ve rd
ot

Pinot N oir Sangiov ese
Syrah Tempra Primitivnillo/ o
Zinfand
el
Other
Sparkli ng
Ros
Port Dessert Wines
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Chardo nnay
Pinot B lanc
Gewurz tra
Riesling
Viognie r
Kenwood Vineyards Kenwood, 707-833-5891 Kokomo Winery Healdsburg, 707-433-0200 Korbel Champagne Cellars Guerneville, 707-824-7000 Lancaster Estate Healdsburg, 707-433-8178 Larson Family Sonoma, 1-800-938-WINE Ledson Winery & Vineyards Kenwood, 707-537-3810 Little Vineyards Glen Ellen, 707-996-2750 Lost Canyon Winery Santa Rosa, 707-623-9621 Loxton Cellars Glen Ellen, 707-935-7221 Martin Ray Winery Santa Rosa, 707-823-2404 Matanzas Creek Winery Santa Rosa, 1-800-590-6464 Meadowcroft Wines Sonoma, 707-934-4090 Moondance Cellars Glen Ellen, 707-823-0880 Mutt Lynch Healdsburg, 707-942-6180 Rodney Strong Vineyards Healdsburg, 707-431-1533 St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Santa Rosa, 1-888-675-WINE Sonoma-Cutrer Windsor, 707-237-3489 Stephen & Walker Winery Healdsburg, 707-431-8749 Trattore Estate Wines Healdsburg, 707-431-7200 Truett Hurst Winery Healdsburg, 707-433-9545 VJB Vineyards & Cellars Kenwood, 707-833-2300 Valley of the Moon Winery Glen Ellen, 707-939-4510 Viansa Winery Sonoma, 707-935-4700
P 50 P 18 P 34 P 31 P 69 P 45 P 56 P 39 P 58 P 35 P 52 P 68 P 53 P 26 P 27 P 46 P 36 P 32 P 19 P 16 P 49 P 55 P 65

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Other
Find Your Favorite Varietals
Pinot G ri Pinot G s/ rigio
Sauvign on Blan c
miner
Cabern et Fran c
vignon
Tempra Primitivnillo/ o
Barbera
C ab S au
Zinfand
Other
Sparkli ng
Carigna
Grenach e
Malbec
Ros

Port

77 77
Dessert Wines
Petite S irah
ot
Petit Ve rd
Pinot N oir
Sangiov ese
ne
Merlot
Syrah
el
Rockpile
Pendeleton Estate
I AN RUSS
Silver Oak Vinwood Cellars
FRITZ WINERY
ER RIV
DUTCHER CR EEK
Lake Sonoma
Sbragia Family
Valdez Family Icaria Creek Wattle Creek Pastori
TO THE MENDOCINO COAST

RD
101
STEWARTS POINT
Dry Creek Alexander Valley

DRY CREEK RD.
Y W. DR
TO THE MENDOCINO COAST
128
FERRARI-CARANOS SEASONS OF THE VINEYARD KENDALL-JACKSON
YC DR
1
ALDERBROOK
MacPhail Mill Creek Vineyards
Northern Sonoma
Everett Ridge Michael Bernard DaVero
Kachina Frick David Ca aro J Rickards Gustafson Family Bella Vineyards Yoakim Pedroncelli Vineyards Preston Vineyards Zichichi TaltyBridge Geyser Peak CANYON RD . Chateau Diana Palmeri Route 128 Winery TRUETT HURST FORCHINI Locals FAMILY WINERIES Meeker Raymond Burr Vineyards KOKOMO/TRATTORE Mercury Gpfrich Terroirs Amphora Pech Merle Trione Papapietro Perry Martorana Unti Michel-Schlumberger Peterson Clos Quivira Del Carlo Francis Ford Du Bois Passalacqua Mounts Rued Coppola deLorimier Winery Teldeschi A Rafanelli Trentadue DRY CREEK VNYD Lambert Bridge Mauritson Pasterick Vineyards Mazzocco Simoncini Garden Creek Ranch Robert Young LYTTON SPGS Munselle Draxton Amista AL EX Stryker Sonoma Deux Amis AN Nalle Ridge Simi DE Hawkes R VALLEY Jordan Duchamp Sausal Medlock Stonestreet Stuhlmuller Wilson Ames Montemaggiore White Oak
K EE CR
EK RD. RE
Flowers Vineyard & Winery
CHRISTOPHER
Soda Rock Alexander Valley Johnsons Vineyards Field Stone Hanna Vrit/ Archipel
Cazadero
D.
DE LA ARMIDA MONTANYA MUTT LYNCH

OLD RE
CREEK Christie Limerick Foppiano LIMERICK Lane Acorn Mietz
LANCASTER ESTATE
Knights Valley
Starlite Vineyards
FOR ES T
ES TS ID
Russian River
ER
D HWY DWOO
116
RD
KORBEL
EA STS IDE
CHALK HILL
AL K HILL
OLD
WINDSOR
Porter Bass Winery La Czar Hartford Family Russian River Vnyds Emtu Estate
RIV
RODNEY STRONG Matrix Twomey John Tyler Wines J Wine by Bacigalupi Vineyard Merriam Notables VML Hop Bradford Mtn Kiln Rochioli Arista Gary Farrell Williams Selyem Vine Tastings UPTick Gracianna WINDSOR RIVER RD Albini Family Porter Thomas Creek Moshin George PL EA SA Copain NT
D WOO RED
Mueller
SLU
ER Russian Hill Estate RD.
SSE R
SONOMA-CUTRER
Kendall-jackson
AR D.
CH
IVE
OL
FU
OCCIDENTAL
LTO N
Robert Rue Sunce Benovia Shelton Eric Kent HOOK & LADDER Carol Marimar Torres GRATON RD. PINVinoteca ER Inspiration INDUSTR Inman IAL DeLoach Battaglini Colagrossi Red Car Lynmar GU ER NovySiduri NE Merry Edwards V Graton Ridge Dutton-Gold eld
ILL
RD .
RD. D&L Peters Taft Street Winery Carinalli Family
MONTE CITO
RD.
HIGHWAY MIAN
LAG U
Wine Center Woodenhead Road Green Iron Horse River Joseph Swan Old World Winery Tara Bella Cahill Winery Martinelli Pellegrini Dutton Estate MARTIN Valley Sebastopol Vnyd Dehlinger Harvest Moon RAY
MARK W EST S
R GS PRIN
D.
PET RIFIE D
HWY
Chalk Hill
E BOH
St. Helena Road Winery

Kings Hill Cellars Fisher Vineyards Paradise Ridge
E
Balletto Hanna
DARGENZIO
FOUNTAIN
GR OVE
Chateau Felice Downtown Wine Edmeades Front Street Wineries: Camellia Cellars Davis Family Sapphire Hill Holdredge Skewis Wines Hauck Cellars Hawley Tasting Room & Gallery Hudson Street Wineries Bluenose Wines Grove Street Owl Ridge Sadler-Wells Rocking Z Vineyard Teira J Keverson JCB Tasting Room & Wine Bar La Crema Longboard Vineyards Manzanita Creek Murphy-Goode Optima Pezzi King Portalupi Ramey Wine Cellars Roadhouse Winery Russian River Wine Co. Seghesio Selby Stark at Garagiste Healdsburg Stephen & Walker Thirty Four North Wine Merchant Thumbprint Toad Hollow Topel Waterfront Tasting Room J. Keverson
29
MO
NT
Small Vines
OCCID ENTA L RD .
ST
Freeman
Sheldon/Krutz
CALIST OGA
O TG
ME
GO
RY
Gourmet au Bay
4th
LD
WAT ER
& Occidental Road Cellars
BODEGA HIG
GE
TRO
BURNSIDE
HWA Y
Joseph Phelps
RID
Littorai Wines
UGH
Claypool Cellars
12 12
N HIA PYT
LOST CANYON STATION 1870 3rd ANCIENT OAK CELLARS Trecini RAILROADCELLARS OF SQUARE SONOMA
Christie Harts Desire Williamson
128
VA L
LE Y
FO RD
CU TO
FF
116
LEDSON RD. ST. FRANCIS
Kaz
GRA NGE
RO AD
101
MATANZAS CREEK CHATEAU ST. JEAN
Pavo Wines
BE NN ET TV AL LE YR D.
Sonoma Valley
Landmark
Sable Ridge
Sonoma Coast
St. Annes Crossing Naked Wines Paradise Ridge Ty Caton Cellars Enkidu
AH ILL ET AL UM
128
TO LAKE BERRYESSA AND SACRAMENTO
EN GARDE B Wise VJB CELLARS
Mayo Reserve Room Muscardini
KENWOOD VINEYARDS
Kunde
Deer eld Ranch
Coturri Winery
RO BL A RR D.
PETALUMA V AL LE
Y
R FO
MOONDANCE CELLARS
RD .
Wellington Lasseter Family Mayo Family Benziger Family Talisman Wines Imagery ERIC ROSS Arrowood
LOXTON
VALLEY OF THE MOON WINERY

WASHINGTON
Laurel Glen Bucklin Old Hill Ranch
B.R. COHN LITTLE VINEYARDS
SONOMA PLAZA
LEDSON CENTRE DU VIN
Petroni Vineyards Akoma Zoume/Mountain Terraces Hanzell
BOD EGA
HWY
Robert Hunter Paint Horse
12
ORANGE RD.
Clary Ranch Sonoma Valley Port Works Corda

FRAT ES
ST AG E GU
Clarbec Adobe Road Winery
CHARLES CREEK
LC H
Ravenswood
R2 Wine Co
BONNESS RD
BRYTTER
Sebastiani
Bartholomew Park
E.
116
Keller Estate
NA
E.
Anaba Schug Bonneau Gloria Ferrer

LA VIL KE LE
PA
RD
LO VA LL Buena Vista VA LL EY EN AP A ST
7T
116 101
Parmelee Hill Robledo Family
Tomales Bay
Adobe Road Envolve Eric K James Vineyards GlenLyon Hawkes Haywood Highway 12 Winery Roche Sigh Champagne & Sparkling Sojourn Sonoma Enoteca Spann Two Amigos Walt Westwood
Favero
12 LARSON 121
FAMILY
. RD
8T
MacRostie
BU
Kastania Vineyards
121
CLINE
Foyt Family Wines Keating Wines
MEADOWCROFT WINES
RN
DA L
CORNERSTONE SONOMA
Kamen Gundlach Bundschu Tin Barn Gofessel

E
Scribe Homewood Winery
Los Carneros Region

RA M
37
Rams Gate
AL
JACUZZI VIANSA
Nicholson Ranch
TO N
APA
TO SAN FRANCISCO
TO SAN FRANCISCO
San Pablo Bay
TO V ALL E
JO

Sonoma County Day Trips Spring/Summer 2013

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Sonoma County Day Trips Spring/Summer 2013

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Spring/Summer 2013

Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country

from Cloverdale to Sonoma

NINE WINE TASTING

plus Dining Directory

FORTY SIX TASTING ROOM REVIEWS

Rockpile Lake FRITZ Sonoma

Dry Creek Valley

DRY CREEK VNYD

Downtown Healdsburg and Alexander Valley

STEPHEN & WALKER

MUTT LYNCH RODNEY STRONG ARMIDA DE LA MONTANYA CHALK HILL

DRY CREEK RD.

RD. EEK EEK RD . CR

Valley Russian River

South of Healdsburg and Westside Road

HOOK & LADDER

BODEGA HIG HWA Y

DARGENZIO ANCIENT OAK LOST CANYON WINERY CELLARS OF SONOMA

Kenwood and Hwy. 12

EN GARDE VJB VINEYARDS & CELLARS

PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco Bay Direct (707) 938-3734 mike@winecountrythisweek.com

MOONDANCE ERIC ROSS VALLEY OF THE MOON

Managing Editor Chandra Grant Phone 707-938-1783 Fax 707-938-3674 chandra@winecountrythisweek.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE Jet Howell, 707-495-9385 winecountryjet1@att.net

Cover courtesy of Chateau St. Jean Winery, Sonoma

San Pablo Bay

Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country

46 Tasting Room Reviews

Heading to the Tasting Room

Sonoma Canopy Tours

Sonoma Canopy Tours

1-888-494-7868 www.sonomacanopytours.com Email: info@sonomacanopytours.com Follow on Facebook and Twitter

$10 off Helmet Cam Rentals (with this coupon).

The Wine Carriage

The Wine Carriage

Getaway Adventures Wine Country Bike Tours

Wine Country Cyclery

Wine Country Cyclery

Destiny Wine Tours

Destiny Wine Tours

Northern Sonoma County

Russian River, Alexander Valley And Dry Creek Valley

FERRARI-CARANOS SEASONS OF THE VINEYARD

Sbragia Family Vineyards

Silver Oak Cellars

Gustafson Family Vineyards

David Ca aro Yoakim Bridge Talty

FERRARI-CARANO DUTCHER CROSSING

Geyser Peak Pedroncelli

Palmeri Route 128 Winery

Locals Meeker Mercury Terroirs

Gpfrich Martorana Quivira

Francis Ford Coppola Teldeschi Mauritson

Lambert Bridge Vineyard of Pasterick Montemaggiore

Hop Kiln Rochioli Arista

Dom Whitney Gracianna

John Tyler Wines by Bacigalupi Vineyard

K HILL RD. CHAL

Ridge/Lytton Springs Simi

RD. Stonestreet VAL. NDER Sausal Medlock Ames EXA

Manzanita Creek Grove Street Michael Bernard DaVero MacPhail Family

STEPHEN & WALKER