With beautiful and dynamic terrain ideal for pinots and chardonnays, Sonoma is one of the best wine regions in the world. A little more laid back than its Napa neighbor, Sonoma’s diverse terroir consists of ocean, rivers, valleys, mountaintops, and soil defined by ash and lava. Here, you can find some of the most renowned wineries and vineyards in the world. We’ve put together a list of 6 Sonoma wineries you shouldn’t miss:
Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery
Perched high on a quiet hillside with killer views, the Gary Farrell experience is as intimate as it is well curated. We recommend you try the Sense of Place Terroir Testing in the private salon ($55/person), and then take your last glass out to the terrace to enjoy the sweeping views of the Russian River Valley. In all their experiences, an extremely experienced expert will guide you through a tasting of six world-class, single vineyard Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Having spent decades in the Sonoma winemaking business, Gary Farrell has built an impress array of exclusive vineyard relationships, and it shows especially with his quality pinots. *By Appointment*
Wilson Winery
We love Wilson for their relaxed vibe, beautiful terrace space and, of course, their award-winning zinfandels. Located minutes from Healdsburg in the Dry Creek Valley, Wilson welcomes walk-in visitors to experience a tasting 7 days a week. We suggest ponying up to a hightop table outside on the deck to taste a expansive array or varietals and vintages while soaking in a panoramic view of the vineyards below. *No Appointment Needed*
Chalk Hill
Sprawled over hundreds of acres of rolling foothills between Napa and Sonoma, Chalk Hill produces wines that are as dynamic as its estate’s terrain. Secluded, with beautiful vista views, all the experiences at Chalk Hill are top notch. Beyond the tastings and estate tours, the winery also offers some excellent food experiences, including a Culinary Tour & Tasting, an Estate Luncheon, and an Estate Dinner. Fresh food from the their garden is prepared by the estate chef and paired with their highly acclaimed Sauvignon Blancs, Chardonnays and Estate Reds. * Appointment preferred for tastings; Appointment only for food experiences*
Dry Creek Vineyard
One of the most beloved and well-regarded vineyards in Sonoma, Dry Creek consistently puts out great wines. Known for their Fumé Blancs and Zinfendels, they also produce some excellent Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. There are multiple tasting options, at refreshingly affordable prices, generally around $10 – $15/person. Just off their tasting room, they have a lovely lawn area with picnic tables and corn-hole boards to enjoy the vino outside amidst the vineyards. *No Appointment Needed, Unless 6 or more*
Jordan Winery
A smile always comes across our face when a bottle of Jordan sits in front of us. The illustrious vineyard and winery was one of the first to master a Bordeaux-style cabernet sauvignon in California. Their award-winning chardonnays are equally impressive. So if you’re in the area, it’s worth the stop to see the their gorgeous Winery Chateaux – illustrated on every bottle – in person. If you’re on a shorter time frame, enjoy a wine & food pairing in their private library (Library Tasting, $30, 1 hour). If you have more time, venture out to explore the scenic countryside on their Estate Tour & Tasting ($120, 3 hrs). *By Appointment*
Patz & Hall
Nobody does Chardonnay better than Patz & Hall. Even if you’re ‘not a Chardonnay drinker’, we suggest you put this one on the list. Considered one of the best wineries in California, the quality of their single-vineyard Chards and Pinots is unmatched. Better yet, the experience itself – at their new Sonoma House – is refreshingly intimate. A relaxed and welcoming vibe hits you as soon as you enter the estate home. Seated at their tasting counter, it’ll feel more like a friend’s living room than a typical, commerical tasting room. After being guided through your wines, meander outside to their lovely garden area and enjoy the serene setting looking out at the vineyards. *By appointment, but welcome to try and call day of*
