Sonoma County Day Trips Spring/Summer 2012

DAY TRIPS
spring/summer 2012
Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country
A publication of
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
52
from Sonoma to Geyserville
EiGHT WiNE TAsTiNG
FiFTY-TWO TAsTiNG rOOM rEViEWs
Trips
Dry Creek Valley

Pages 8-16
Downtown Healdsburg & Alexander Valley

Pages 24-31
South of Healdsburg Westside Road

Pages 17-23
Russian River
Pages 32-37
Kenwood Hwy. 12
A Publication of
Pages 38-44
669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476 P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433
Glen Ellen
Pages 45-54
707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674

PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco Direct (707) 938-3734 mike@winecountrythisweek.com Jet Howell, 707-495-9385 winecountryjet1@att.net Chandra Grant Phone 707-938-1783 Fax 707-938-3674 chandra@winecountrythisweek.com Cathy Gore Phone 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674 Email cathy@winecountrythisweek.com Karin Argoud, Rebecca Arnn Michelle J. Baker, Brendan Conroy Monica L. Dashwood, Ronda Giangreco Mike Hyland, Charles Neave Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Abigail Zimmerman
Sonoma
Pages 55-63
SALES REPRESENTATIVE MANAGING EDITOR
OFFICE MANAGER
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Los Carneros
Pages 64-70
Cover Photo by Norah Burrows, courtesy of Dry Creek Vineyard
DAY TRIPS
8 DAY Trips
Dry Creek Valley South of Healdsburg/Westside Road Downtown Healdsburg/Alexander Valley Russian River Kenwood Glen Ellen Sonoma Los Carneros 8 17 24 32 38 45 55 64 Akma Zoma Alderbrook Winery Alexander Valley Vineyards Armida Winery Arrowood Winery Audelssa Estate Winery B.R. Cohn Winery BRYTER Estates Buena Vista Winery Chalk Hill Estate Charles Creek Vineyard Chateau St. Jean Cline Cellars De La Montanya Estate DeLoach Vineyards Dry Creek Vineyard Dutcher Crossing Winery Eric Ross Winery Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery Forchini Vineyards & Winery Haywood Winery Hook & Ladder Winery JCB Tasting Room & Wine Bar Jacuzzi Family Vineyards Kenwood Vineyards Kokomo Winery www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 46 21 30 19 49 53 48 59 60 23 57 42 67 18 34 16 11 52 10 12 58 33 28 66 44 14
Sonoma Country Preferred Wine Country
spring/summer 2012
HELpFUL iNFOrMATiON
4 6 62/73 7/71 63/72 74-75 76-77 78-79
Heading to the Tasting Room Notes on Wine Tasting Della Santinas Destiny Wine Tours Wine Country Cyclery Dining Recommendations Varietals Chart Sonoma County Wineries Map
52 TAsTiNG rOOM rEViEWs

Korbel Champagne Cellars Lancaster Family Estate Larson Family Winery Ledson Winery & Vineyards Loxton Cellars Martin Ray Winery Matanzas Creek Winery Meadowcroft Wines Medlock Ames Winery Mill Creek Winery Moondance Cellars Nicholson Ranch Winery Paradise Ridge Winery Peterson Winery Ravenswood Tasting Room Roche Winery Rodney Strong Vineyards St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Sbragia Family Vineyards Sonoma-Cutrer Stephen & Walker Winery Topel Winery Truett Hurst Winery VJB Vineyards & Cellars Valley of the Moon Winery Viansa Winery 37 31 69 39 50 35 54 68 29 20 51 70 41 15 61 56 22 40 9 36 26 27 13 43 47 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
Do the Math
One of the questions most asked when it comes to wine is how much of this does it take to make that, and so on. We wont pretend that its simple, but here are some industry statistics that will give a pretty good answer to that query. As with anything agricultural, of course, they are all based on countless variables when it comes to acre yields, but this is a good starting point. The rest of the information varies little if at all.
A case of wine includes:

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

750 ml of wine which is 25.6 ounces made from about 2.4 pounds of grapes (39 oz.) and is enough for four or maybe five glasses.
An acre of vineyard land can give the grower:

five tons of grapes (though it is also less, depending on a variety of farming and winemaking practices, and on the varietal and the vineyard One standard oak barrel of wine holds: location) which will give you 797 gallons of juice 295 bottles of wine (or 59 gallons) made from 740 pounds of grapes (or thirteen-and-a-half barrels) which is pretty close which works out to almost but not precisely 30 cases of wine. to four thousand bottles of wine.
What does all that information on a wine label mean?
XYZ Winery
RESERVE
Dry Creek Sonoma County
The U.S. Department of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms regulates wine labels and requires that information be given in a straightforward way. Basically, you will want to look for the types of grapes grown, where the grapes are grown and when the grapes were picked. 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
Notes on Wine Tasting

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

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

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

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

A Walk Around Tasting is a combination of a tour and a tasting. Your host brings along several bottles of wine on your tour, and may take you to a garden area of the
Barrel Tasting
Another popular tasting experience that can be part of a tour or a Walk Around is a Barrel Tasting. Your guide takes a wine thief, a special siphon placed into a hole in the top of a barrel to extract tasting samples of a maturing wine. The sample allows you to taste what the wine is like in the middle of developing its full potential.
Why make an appointment?

Some wineries are so small that they need to know when you are coming so someone will be there to greet you. Other wineries have permit restrictions that limit the number of guests that can visit each day. Others have sit-down tastings that start and end at specific times. Its always a good idea to schedule your appointments well in advance of your visit because some of the more popular wineries fill up their appointments weeks in advance.
WWW.LEGENDARYNAPAVALLEY.COM
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. 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 re 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 eet (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 facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Destiny-Wine-Tours twitter: @destinywinetours
Mention this story and get 20% o your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours.
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!
While youre here dont miss the beautiful gardens of Ferrari-Carano this time of year!
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Driving Time: 16 minutes From Sbragia Family to Ferrari-Carano 1 mile to Dutcher Crossing 2 miles to Truett Hurst 2.5 miles to Forchini >0.5 miles to Kokomo >0.5 miles to Peterson Family 0 miles to Dry Creek Vineyard 1.5 miles Total 8 miles
DRY CREEK VINEYARD
Not to scale
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Dry Creek General YTTON SPRINGS Store

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Ed and Adam Sbragia
When visiting the Healdsburg area of Sonoma County, be sure to visit Sbragia Family Vineyards. Less than ten miles up on Dry Creek Road from downtown Healdsburg, family owned and operated Sbragia Family Vineyards offers fabulous wines produced by one of Californias preeminent and well known winemakers, Ed Sbragia. The tasting room is above the barrel rooms and is surrounded by large windows providing what has been called the best view of Dry Creek Valley, looking west to east. On two sides of the tasting room is an expansive, partially covered patio, from which you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Dry Creek Valleys vineyards and hills. Ed, and his son Adam, handcraft superb wines from their own Dry Creek Valley vineyards including Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot. What really separates Sbragia from other Sonoma wineries is that Ed also produces small quantities of iconic mountain grown Napa Cabernet Sauvignons including Wall Vineyards (Mt. Veeder), Cimarossa Vineyards and Rancho Del Oso Vineyard (Howell Mountain). All of Eds and Adams wines can be sampled in the tasting room, open every day except holidays. Be sure to look for one of the Sbragias you are very likely to see Ed, Adam or Adams wife, Kathy, working away. This is the perfect place to bring a picnic lunch, buy a glass or a bottle of wine and soak in the Sbragia family hospitality while enjoying the views from the deck.
pLAN AHEAD Visitors are encouraged to purchase wine by the glass (or by the bottle), choose some snacks from the deli case and relax outside at one of the picnic tables. LiTTLE KNOWN FACT Owner / founder Ed Sbragia is the only winemaker in the world to have won the Wine Spectators Wine of the Year for both a red (Cabernet Sauvignon) and a white (Chardonnay)! OTHEr WiNEs TO TrY Gamble Ranch Chardonnay, Ginos (Eds dad) Zinfandel, La Promessa Zinfandel, Monte Rosso Cabernet Sauvignon and Andolsen Cabernet Sauvignon priVATE EVENTs Sbragia is one of the few Sonoma County wineries that can be reserved for weddings, including large ones. Sbragias event center can accommodate up to 350 guests and is supported with a state-of-the-art professional kitchen. For events large and small, the stunning views and world-class wines will make your event unforgettable! priVATE TOUrs & TAsTiNGs Fully customizable private tours and tastings are available by appointment.
sbragia Family Vineyards

Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9990 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg www.sbragia.com (707) 473-2992
Mention this story for complimentary tasting. Tell em The Wine Wench sent you!
Dry Creek Valley
Inside Villa Fiore, the magnificent Italian-style villa that serves as Ferrari-Caranos hospitality center, guests will find a world of tasting opportunities. On the main floor wine shop and tasting room, guests may taste many brand 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 extensive selection of gifts and souvenirs, including many great wine and cookbooks, housewares and wine country home dcor. Downstairs in the cellar, the luxurious Enoteca offers guests Ferrari-Caranos Limited Release and Reserve Wines. Try a flight of lovely Russian River Valley Chardonnays, or compare the two delicious PreVail Cabernet Sauvignons that hail from the winerys two mountain ranches in Alexander Valley. Guests are welcome to stroll the enclosed garden, which has a meandering path and foot bridges along a rippling stream that empty into fish-filled ponds. The garden has more than 2,000 species of trees and shrubs, all marked with informative identification tags, including some of the few successfully growing Portuguese cork trees in the area. Art lovers will also find bronze sculptures from world-renowned artists such as Dennis Smith, Douglas Van Howd and Jane DeDecker throughout the gardens. By Michelle J. Baker
DiD YOU KNOW... Ferrari-Carano has a 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 by appointment, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m., based on availability. Seven dierent private tasting opportunities are available by appointment, seven days a week at 11 a.m. or 2:30 p.m, also based on availability, call (707) 433-6700 or email tourinformation@ferrari-carano.com. WHAT TO TAsTE For the Classic Wines tasting, Pinot Grigio, Fum Blanc, Chardonnay, Bella Luce (aromatic white blend), Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and SIENA (Tuscan-inspired red blend); in the Enoteca , Limited Release and Reserve Wines like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Trsor, PreVail West Face and Back Forty, and dessert wines.
Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg www.ferrari-carano.com For tours and private tastings, call (707) 433-6700
seasons of the Vineyard

Open Tuesday - Sunday 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. 113 Plaza Street, Healdsburg (707) 431-2222 Look for them on Facebook and Twitter!
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Mention this story and receive one complimentary Classic Wine tasting when you purchase one at regular price. ($5 tasting fee refunded with purchase of any single bottle.)
Dry Creek Valley
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 o 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.
Inquire to schedule a private tasting of our current releases and a selection of delicious local cheeses.
Dry Creek Valley
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12 Dry Creek Valley
Just north of Healdsburg, a few miles down Dry Creek in warm tones with faux-painted walls, wood flooring Road is a very special place, where youll feel like part of and a granite-topped oak bar. Behind the bar, a portrait of the family. Turn at the Bacchus sign, drive up the narrow, Bacchus, the god of wine, is the central focus of the winding, rosemary-edged driveway and youve arrived at tasting room. Forchini Vineyards & Winery. Youll be greeted by at The 67-acre Dry Creek Bench vineyard has a history least two happy, tail-wagging dogs, which will escort you of grape growing since 1888. It is the winerys site and is to the tasting room. planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Forchini Vineyards & Winery, Petite Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Forchini Vineyards & Winery owned and operated by Jim and Malbec plus 13 acres of Anita Forchini, produces only 100-year-old Zinfandel and four Open Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. estate-grown and bottled wines acres of 60-year-old Carignane. or by appointment from their historic vineyards in Wines produced from Dry Creek 5141 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg Dry Creek and Russian River are Proprietors Reserve Old Vine (707) 431-8886 www.forchini.com Valleys. Sonoma County grape Zinfandel and Cabernet Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, growers since 1971, Jim and Sauvignon, BeauSierra Bordeaux Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel Anita built their Dry Creek Valley Blend and Papa Nonno Tuscan winery in 1996. SmallStyle Red. From the 24-acre Bring a lunch to compliment your tasting and be surrounded by the beautiful vineyards, rose production, hand-crafted wines Russian River Terrace vineyard gardens, Italian fountains and exceptional views. the winery produces Proprietors are made in the 3000-case winery. Jim, a former engineer, is the Reserve Pinot Noir and Estate winemaker. Anita manages the office and wine club, son Chardonnay. Four acres of 90-year-old Zinfandel are still Andrew is the vineyard manager, Carla and Michael assist in production. Forchini Vineyards & Winery uses 25% of with special events. their wine grapes in their estate bottled wines, the The building, surrounding picnic area and vineyards remainder is sold to other wineries. look as if they are right out of an Italian landscape Forchini wines have received high media reviews and stucco walls, tile roofs, splashing fountains, flower gold medals in major wine competitions including such gardens and vineyard-striped hills delight the senses. Just prestigious awards as Double Gold, Best of Class for the wait until you taste the wines then your senses will be 99 Cabernet and Best of Region for the 97 Zinfandel at delighted even further! the California State Fair and Double Gold for the 06 Once inside the main building, you feel as if you are Pinot Noir and 08 Papa Nonno at the Sonoma County in someones comfortable home. There is a large dining Harvest Fair. room, with a table ready to serve eight, a fully appointed You really should visit this beautiful, comfortable, kitchen, an office and the tasting room which is decorated delicious 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 ne local musicians who deliver everything from a jazzswing 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 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.

Dry Creek Valley
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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, loved them all, but I have room to review only one wine, so here goes The 2008 Timber Crest Vineyard Zinfandel rocked my world! Mouthwatering aromas of blackberry pie, cigar box and peppery spice continue as flavors in the richly textured mouth. The wine is spicy, rich and dangerously good. By sue straight, The Wine Wench
pLAN AHEAD 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. LiTTLE KNOWN FACT 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, Russian River and Dry Creek Valley. VAriETALs Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petite Sirah & Cuve Ivy, a red blend named after Joshs daugher, Ivy, born in 2009. KUDOs FOr KOKOMO! 2012 SF Chronicle Wine Competition: Best of Class 2009 Russian River Valley, Chardonnay Best of Class 2009 Dry Creek Valley, Zinfandel Double Gold 2009 Sonoma Coast, Reserve, Pinot Noir Gold 2009 Dry Creek Valley Merlot
Kokomo Winery
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 twitter: @kokomowinery
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Fred Peterson (grape grower and father) has been growing wine grapes and making wine in Dry Creek Valley for more than 25 years. Jamie Peterson (winemaker and son) has been around wine and the wine business his whole life. These guys work hard, yet they dont take themselves too seriously. The result of their labors is delicious, reasonably priced wines with a casual, comfortable environment to enjoy them in. The Petersons call their approach to grape growing and winemaking Zero Manipulation, meaning that they capture the essence of vintage and vineyard with a low-tech, yet hightouch methodology. Its all about the vineyards at Peterson Winery (which Fred farms in a sustainable manner). Simply put, they let the grapes do the talking. Lets talk about the wines. I tasted a handful of excellent wines during my visit. The following were my favorites: 2009 Zinfandel Tradizionale, Dry Creek Valley ($29): Mouthwatering aromas and flavors of blackberry and raspberry are enhanced by a touch of savory herbs. Balanced and juicy in the mouth. This is a big, rustic, friendly Zin. 2008 Syrah, Gravity Flow Block ($48): This wine is big, balanced and intense, with abundant aromas and flavors of blackberry, plum, coffee and peppery spice, all wrapped up in a luscious mouthfeel. Dont miss Peterson Winery! Tell em The Wine Wench sent you! By sue straight, The Wine Wench
VAriETALs Zinfandels, Syrah, Sangiovese, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignons & blends pLAN AHEAD When available, Jamie loves giving visitors tours of the winery and oering sips straight from the barrel. Give yourself at least an hour to visit this special place; open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. LiTTLE KNOWN FACT Peterson Winery releases as many as twelve dierent wines annually, and sometimes more. Currently they have four dierent Zinfandels, two Cabernet Sauvignons, a Bordeaux blend, plus several other current releases. FUN FACT Friendly winery cat Whitey is always nearby for a pet she loves visitors!
peterson Winery
Open Friday-Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday by appointment 4791 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg www.petersonwinery.com For tasting appointments, call (707) 431-7568
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Dry Creek Valley
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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 $28 retail; and The Mariner ($40), which is even more powerful and particularly ageworthy. by Michelle J. Baker
FUN FACT Did you know that Dry Creek Vineyard was the rst 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 rst new winery in the Dry Creek Valley after prohibition. They were also the rst to produce a Fum Blanc in Sonoma County; the rst to use the Dry Creek Valley appellation on a wine label; and the rst 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
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Dry Creek Valley
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-lover's destination. They can custom pick and arrange flowers. DaVero, 766 Westside Road, Healdsburg (707) 431-8000, www.DaVero.com Guided tastings of wines, olive oils and jams as well as fresh produce. It's also a great spot for a picnic, or just to wander the field. Check the website for hands-on cooking clases.
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South of Healdsburg Including Westside Road

russian river Valley produce 400 Grapevine Lane, Healdsburg, (707) 433-7933 A four-acre, family-owned ranch, Russian River Valley Produce farms top-notch vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers sure to brighten any palate and table. Excellent farm tours by appointment. The best of California farming! Wohler Bridge, 9765 Wohler Rd, 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. 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. riverfront regional park 7821 Eastside Rd, Healdsburg, (707) 565-2041 Once an old quarry, Riverfront Regional Park is now home to two sparkling lakes perfect for swimming and non-motorized boating...or hike a trail through serene redwood groves! powells sweet shoppe, 322 Center St., Healdsburg (707) 431-2784, www.powelsss.com Remember yesterday, today! An old time, old fashioned candy, ice cream and sweets shop sure to delight your child within! This is the first shop for Powell's now beloved franchise. 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 spectacular gardens. Located just 1 miles from charming downtown Healdsburg. DiNiNG
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Driving Time: 24 minutes From De La Montanya to Armida Winery >1 mile to Mill Creek Vineyards >1 mile to Alderbrook Winery 1+ miles 128 to Rodney Strong 3+ miles to Chalk Hill 7+ miles Total 13+ miles
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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 Sonoma's diverse agriculture and artisan producers. Giorgis restaurant 25 Grant Street, Healdsburg, (707) 433-1106 Great family-style Italian restaurantpasta and hand-thrown pizzas. Has a full bar, open late and food available to go. Gilardi's Delicatessen 810 Den Beste, Windsor, (707) 838-9869 Certainly a vine above the rest! Feast on homemade lasagna and freshly baked sourdough garlic breads.
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How does the idea of a picnic and a glass of Pinot, in a private peaceful setting outside of a beautiful little redwood barn located in one of the most idyllic spots in Dry Creek sound? If its a taste of fine wine and casual luxury that youre looking for, then search no further than the De La Montanya Tasting Room located in its Felta Creek Vineyard, just a few minutes from central Healdsburg, on secluded Foreman Lane. If youre looking to taste some of the most unique red wine in Sonoma County, youre in the right place, said Dennis De La Montanya, whose wines have yielded an impressive collection of gold medals. Were small, quaint, hard-to-find and well worth the effort, said De La Montanya, one of Dry Creek Valleys most celebrated hosts and champion of the art of understated winemaking. Their meticulously crafted wines are bottled from the best of the winerys premium, estate-grown, hand-selected grapes: 15 varieties from five distinctive appellations with ideal soils and microclimates. Visit the bucolic barn style tasting room in the vineyards and discover the secrets of their success. Its the unmistakable spirit, charm and attention to detail on three acres of Zinfandel and an acre of Primitivo surrounding a vintage apple orchard that provides a leafy, shaded canopy over inviting lawns and patios, rose arbors, a fire pit, outdoor pizza oven, pathways and a bocce court. There is even a private two-bedroom cottage on the property available for wine club members.
VAriETALs Gewrztraminer, Viognier, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Primitivo, Tempranillo and unique blends pHiLOsOpHY Fine winemaking may be serious business, not least when producing 4,500 cases that range from offerings of just 25 to 250 cases per year. Yet De La Montanya and his tight-knit winery team take equal pride in their shared dedication to the art of a laugh and the craft of good living. FUN FACTs Several rock star special signature bottlings for bands like Journey and Whitesnake have raised thousands of dollars for a variety of worthy charities. And their limited edition wines include a rather cheeky range of pin-up wines for wine club members.
De La Montanya Estate Vineyards & Winery

Open Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, by appointment only 999 Foreman Lane, Healdsburg (707) 433-3711 www.dlmwine.com Look for them on Facebook and become a Fan!
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South of Healdsburg/Westside Road
Located not far from Healdsburg on Westside Road, ArmidaWinery sits atop a vineyard-striped knoll. Wend your way up the driveway and you are in for a real treat! To start with, the views from the oak-shaded deck/picnic area and bocce court are unforgettable the Russian River Valley unfolds before your eyes in a glorious patchwork of vineyards, trees and hills, the Mayacama range a majestic backstop. The whole atmosphere at Armida Winery is one of delicious fun, with a bit of mischief thrown in. The wines are seriously good, but the folks at Armida Winery are serious about anti wine-snobbery The tasting room is light, bright and airy feeling, with an octagonal shaped wooden bar that is staffed by friendly and knowledgeable servers, all of whom have been at Armida for many years. PoiZin themed gifts are placed everywhere in the artfully merchandised tasting room. A full-sized wooden Indian gazes solemnly at visitors as they sip, swirl and shop. Against the back wall, a glass-fronted refrigerator is well stocked with cheeses, hummus and other picnic fare. Armida Winery is a popular stop along the wine road because the tasting room is unique, the views are stunning, these folks really know how to show visitors a good time and the wines ROCK. About the wines I just had to taste the 2010 PoiZin. It is a classic Sonoma Zinfandel, loaded with aromas and flavors of ripe blackberry, plum, caramel, vanilla and peppery spice, with a big, rich mouthfeel and long, juicy finish. Its a great deal at $25! I also tasted their 2009 Durrell Vineyard Pinot Noir ($45), which was another delicious, varietally correct wine. The nose drew me in, with mouthwatering hints of rose petal, violet, cherry and baking spices. These aromas continued as flavors in the oh-so-silky mouth and on through the finish. Be sure to visit this unforgettable place and tell them The Wine Wench sent you! By sue straight, The Wine Wench
VAriETALs Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Gewurtztraminer, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and a traditional estate eld blend called Il Campo. piCNiCs Their wood deck, overlooking one of their ponds with its fountain and (seasonal) waterfowl, is available for sipping and snacking with Armida wine, of course. CANiNEs Always welcome, but on a leash to ensure harmony with other four-legged guests. Penny, the resident cat and Queen of the Domes (with a mind of her own, reads her winery bio) appreciates it as well. iMprEss YOUr FriENDs This has nothing to do with wine, but geodesic domes are usually attributed to architect, engineer and author R. Buckminster Fuller (18951983), though he did not, in fact, come up with the original concept. But he did popularize it. spECiAL EVENTs Armida has events at the winery throughout the year, including participating in Sonomas Passport 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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Stroll up to the iconic tasting room at Mill Creek Vineyards and Winery on a sunny day in Dry Creek Valley, and youll be tempted to kick off your socks and shoes and dip your toes into the refreshing blue waters of the millpond. Although tempted, youd be rather satisfied grabbing a bottle of the winerys stunning double gold collection of award winning wines and then finding yourself a comfy seat next to the working water wheel and pond. Or take a picnic lunch and enjoy the tranquil splash of the water wheel while savoring the expansive sights of the Mill Creek Estate vineyards with Healdsburgs Fitch Mountain and far-off Mount St Helena as a backdrop. What you see is what you taste, referring to the estate vineyards, said tasting room manager Kim Collins, who frequently pours according to the tastes and preferences of her first customers of the day. We dont believe in opening the same offerings each day, she explained. If you are a big Zin fan, Ill likely pour in that particular direction. No appointments are necessary to visit Mill Creek. First time visitors often become wine club members, joining in the creative winemaking process at custom blending parties and memorable food and wine affairs. We get a lot of first timers here, said Collins. We can be your first or final stop along Westside Road, depending upon your direction of approach. A walking vineyard tour and tasting with barrel samplings is available by appointment seven days a week. We also allow group tastings of eight or more people with advanced notice. Reservations for these activities should be made by calling the tasting room. Sonoma County Harvest Fair gold medal and double gold medal winning 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Kreck Family Vineyards, bursts with blackberry jam and leathery spice, captivating fans of the valleys big, bold reds. The 2007 Kreck Family Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, is another mouth-watering multiple medal winner at the Harvest Fair as well as the San Francisco and Pacific Rim International wine competitions. Prefer a white? You wont be disappointed at Mill Creeks best of class Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay or Gewrztraminer.
VAriETALs Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah & Cabernet Sauvignon FUN FACT The working wheel and millpond of Mill Creek Vineyards and Winery Tasting Room was fashioned as a replica from vintage photographs of several long lost mills along the Mill Creek Road area in which owners, the Kreck family were raised.
Mill Creek Vineyards & Winery

Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 1401 Westside Road, Healdsburg 1-877-349-2121 www.millcreekwinery.com
Just a two to three minute drive from the center of town, from the south take Hwy 101 to the Central Healdsburg exit. Turn left at 2nd light onto Mill Street that becomes Westside Road. Travel a little over one mile to Mill Creek Winery on your right. From the north take 101 to the Westside Road exit. Turn right at the bottom of the ramp onto Westside Road. Travel about 1 mile to Mill Creek Winery on your right.
20 South of Healdsburg/Westside Road
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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 TOUrs Tours with barrel tastings are oered by appointment. 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 FACT Dogs are very welcome at Alderbrook; Come in for a button that says, We Dogs @ Alderbrook. OTHEr TAsTiNGs There is a self-serve bar by the replace 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.
Alderbrook 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 Look for Alderbrook Winery on Facebook & Twitter.
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A Great Time to Visit, Fall
sent to our lab for chemical analysis. Ripeness is fairly Rodney Strong just finished an update to their tasting subjective, but each variety has a target Brix that needs room self-guided tour. Its an illustrated story of their to be reached before harvest. Generally 24Bx is family ownership and the team that puts delicious considered ripe for red varieties, but some lots of grapes Sonoma County wine in the bottle for your enjoyment are allowed to reach 27Bx before they are considered and its another great reason to visit the winery. ready for picking. Here is an excerpt from the tour that accompanies the Once the decision is made to pick a particular block, above picture by local photographer, Alan Campbell, who we decide how to pick it. Hand captured the winerys famous harvesting and machine vineyard, Alexander Crown, in rodney strong Vineyards harvesting are the two methods all four seasons. This part of the Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily used to get the job done. Hand tour is told by Ryan Decker, 11455 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg harvesting is still the preferred who works in Winegrowing. 1-800-678-4763 | www.rodneystrong.com method for hillsides and reserve Fall is all about harvest. wines, but machine harvesters The berries are getting sweet, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, have come a long way in the and the vines are starting to get Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Port last decade. There are now tired. Growers and winemakers machines that not only harvest are constantly in the field FUN Look for the huge rebate check from PG&E for testing sugars and tasting FACT $2,164,403.00 for the installation of the largest the crop, but also remove the solar electric system ever realized by a winery. stems and sort out the bad fruit. grapes. The sugar content is Regardless of the method used, normally measured in Brix the goal is to get the fruit to the winery in a timely (grams of sucrose in 100 grams of solution), and every fashion, as cold as possible, to preserve the quality from block of grapes is tested multiple times throughout the the vineyard to the fermentation tank. Once harvest is ripening process. Our sugar samplers head out on their completed, the vineyards are given a deep irrigation and ATVs and grab buckets of grapes from our vineyards to bring back to the winemaking team for a battery of tests. a small shot of fertilizer to help recover from the stresses of the season. After a visual assessment and some tasting, the juice is
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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 longterm 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 Tour examines the organic gardens and vineyards. The organically farmed produced 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. The newest tour addition is the guided Estate Vineyard Trail Rides on horseback. Guests begin their journey at the magnificent Equestrian Center located on the property 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 Cheese & Wine Tasting $40 per person, by appointment Culinary tour: $75 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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Downtown Healdsburg
Healdsburg is charming. Every brick, every flower box, every elegant shop and eclectic gallery, every five-star restaurant and cozy cafe on every single corner speak to this town's genuine individuality and down-to-earth-treasures. Downtown Healdsburg may be surrounded by bucolic rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, but around this age-old square, its hard to imagine being anywhere else more delightful. No matter what time of year, Healdsburg is a town for every season. Getaway Adventures Santa Rosa, (707) 568-3040, www.getawayadventures.com 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. THiNGs TO DO powells sweet shoppe 322 Center St., Healdsburg (707) 431-2784, www.powelsss.com Remember yesterday, today! An old time, old fashioned candy, ice cream and sweets shop sure to delight your child within! This is the first shop for Powell's now beloved franchise. raven Theater 115 North Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-6335, www.raventheater.org Where would we be without performing arts? A big, dark nowhere, that's where. Its thanks to cultural theaters like the Raven, that publics can experience entertainment that is beyond a moment's blip of distraction. Enjoy wonderful performances and expand your world. segway Tours (707) 953-3477, www.segwayofhealdsburg.com Take a fun tour of Healdsburg on a rented Segway. 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 Western-inspired 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 right on the Healdsburg Plaza. From summer concerts to holiday tree lightings, the town's best events take place right here.
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Historic Homes Walking Tours
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Dry Creek Kitchen
Plaza a
MATHE SON
TOPEL
O Options Gallery
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Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza

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STEPHEN & WALKER
Driving Time: 19 minutes From Stephen & Walker to Topel >1 mile to JCB >1 mile to Medlock Ames 6+ miles to Alexander Valley 2+ miles to Lancaster Estate 2+ miles Total 11+ miles
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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.
to Alexander Valley
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, Belle du Jour nestles on six acres of hilltop overlooking rolling hilltops and valleys. Hope Merril & Hope Bosworth B&B 21253 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-3356, www.hope-inns.com 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! 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 palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen Hotel Healdsburg, 317 Healdsburg Avenue (707) 431-0330, www.charliepalmer.com Celebrating Sonoma's pioneering wines and spirits, celebrated Chef Charlie Palmer takes the best of our farm-fresh produce and culinary cradle and infuses it with his passion and trademark style. Jimtown store, 6706 Highway 128, Healdsburg (707) 433-1212, www.jimtown.com 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.
HEALDSBURG PLAZA WWW.HEALDSBURG.COM
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. Hoffman House restaurant 21712 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville (707) 857-3264, www.hoffmanhousegeyserville.com Built more than 100 years ago by the Hoffman family, this cafe serves healthy breakfast and lunch with striking views of the majestic mountains nearby. Seasonal dinners, call first.
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 a little nourishment and shop talk. Cyrus restaurant 29 North Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-3311, www.cyrusrestaurant.com Consistently reviewed as one of THE best restaurants in all of wine country by Wine Spectator, Gourmet, Food & Wine, Esquire, Wine Enthusiast, and Wall Street Journal.
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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 five 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? Opening the weekend of Passport to Dry Creek Valley, April 28-29, will be their new winery, the Home Ranch Winery, at 1500 Grove Street in Healdsburg. Their award-winning wines will be complemented with Hog Island oysters, wood-fired pizzas and cupcakes as the ribbon is cut on this new facility, during this annual, sold-out event. The Home Ranch is just one mile north of their Healdsburg Square tasting room, which will also continue serving their acclaimed wines. 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, 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 ight. 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 nd elsewhere, leave some room in your suitcase (or have them shipped).
stephen & Walker Tasting room

Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily 243 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, (707) 431-8749
stephen & Walker Home ranch Winery

(opens April 28th, 2012) Open by appointment for Barrel Tasting 1500 Grove St, Healdsburg, (707) 331-8480 www.trustwine.com www.facebook.com/stephenandwalker Twitter: @stephandwalker
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recent wins at the 2011 sF Chronicle Wine Competition: DOUBLE GOLD 2008 Howell Mountain Cabernet sauvignon, GOLD 2009 Green Valley of russian river sauvignon Blanc and GOLD 2004 portentous.
If youre heading to the hip and happening Healdsburg for high-end, handcrafted wines, then Topel Winery should be at the top of your list. Topel Winery and its Hidden Vineyard are perched on the east side of Duncan Peak 1,400 feet above the Sanel Valley floor and just south of Hopland in southern Mendocino County. Owners Mark and Donnis Topel are passionate about organic and biodynamic farming. They lovingly tend the vines year-round, coaxing each variety including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Syrah Noir on the steep, rocky slopes to produce moderate grape yields with intense flavors. Step into the warm and inviting tasting room at Topel and let the natural wood and golden lighting soak in while you cozy up to the beautiful mahogany bar. Sit back, relax and get ready for a wonderful ride through the world of wine. The staff is not only friendly, incredibly knowledgeable and genuine, but good looking, too! says Donnis, who is sweet and welcoming to all. Try their Traditional or Private Sit-Down Tastings in the smaller room of limited-edition and library wines (for groups of four or more) with either Mark or Donnis. If youre in the mood to shop with a glass of wine in hand, gaze at their unique art, then take home some of the delicious balsamic vinegar or olive oil as a souvenir. To make absolutely the best wine that can be made from these grapes in this spot at this time, and to do it honestly, is our goal, confirms winemaker Mark Topel. We literally capture a piece of time so that when you open a bottle, no matter when, it brings back the whole year. Every vintage is like a new child. By Karin Argoud
VAriETALs Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah Noir, Pinot Noir, Gamay, Petite Sirah, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier. FUN FACT Does your dog prefer Pinot Noir or Petite Sirah? Go to Topel Winery to nd out. Topel is Fido-friendly, a great place to go wine tasting with your pet. TriViA What does Mark Topel do besides making wine? He is a criminal trial lawyer. EVENTs Topel has two major events to mark on your calendar: Love & Meritage Blending Event that is always held the Sunday closest to Valentines Day, and Dogtoberfest, held on the Saturday before Halloween, when the winners of the Topel Wine Tails Calendar for the next year are revealed. All proceeds from the sales of the calendar go to Healdsburg Animal Shelter. TOpEL is GrEEN! The winery is completely solar and the bottles are all eco glass from California in an eort to signicantly reduce their footprint.
Topel Tasting room

Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily 125 Matheson Street, Healdsburg (across from Oakville Grocery) www.topelwines.com | (707) 433-4116 www.facebook.com/topelwinery
Bring in this article with you and get 20% discount on any wine purchase.
Downtown Healdsburg/Alexander Valley
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Founded by Jean-Charles Boisset, this ber-chic wine tasting salon is an unforgettable place where you may taste JCB, a personal collection of limited-edition wines that he has curated and selected from the best wines from his family collection of wineries. JCB embraces style and fashion in equal measure to exceptional wines, and the tasting room here perfectly embodies this union of luxury, fashion and wine, where the wines are defined by a number, rather than a vineyard or a particular terroir. Ask about the numbers Each has a fascinating story! Also while here, ask for one of the gems from the familys amazing collection of wineries in Burgundy or Sonoma. In addition to the JCB collection of wines, the staff always has a few wines open to enhance your experience from DeLoach Vineyards, Domaine de la Vougeraie or even Raymond Vineyards, Boissets Napa winery. The large white marble table that spans the middle of the room invites guests to enjoy a convivial tasting and communal atmosphere; sometimes the concierge-like staff even sits to guide and educate guests as they taste through the flights. There is a small tasting bar across the back of the room, which is painted black and decorated with the numbers and descriptors of the JCB wines. Displays of wine and Baccarat crystal are artfully set up around the room. Tres chic! JCB Tasting Room & Wine Bar is simply an experience not to be missed!
VAriETALs Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and bubbles from Burgundy pLAN AHEAD Truly enjoying the variety of wines oered here takes time give yourself at least an hour to relax and enjoy a ight or two. FUN FACT The friendly, knowledgeable sta of JCB Tasting Room & Wine Bar actually opens bottles of bubbly by slicing o the tops with a saber. LiTTLE KNOWN FACT The JCB tasting room becomes a luxurious wine bar by night From Thursday to Saturday the wine bar remains open until 9 p.m. for guests to enjoy wines by the glass. Stop in before going to dinner on the Healdsburg square for a glass of bubbles as an aperitif!
JCB Tasting room & Wine Bar

Open Sunday-Wednesday 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. 320 Center Street, Healdsburg www.jcbwines.com For more information, call (707) 473-9707
Mention Day Trips for complimentary 2 for 1 tasting.

When I first noticed the shiny new Medlock Ames Tasting Room & Bar sitting proudly where the old Alexander Valley Store and Bar used to be, it made me a little melancholy. Change is inevitable, but the old store and bar was another local hangout that had gone by the wayside. Or so I thought Turns out that Medlock Ames has lovingly restored the bar (the best of old-meets-new) and the tasting room is gorgeous. This place is industrial chic done really, really well! At the Bar, Thursday is locals night and its a really cool place to hang out! Youll find this Wine Wench there! Lets start outside olive trees surround the perimeter of the grounds, which are neat and orderly, with raised herb and vegetable beds, there is a ptanque court for those who like to play. A large shaded patio off the back of the tasting room is dotted with picnic tables. The tasting room is inviting, with lots of windows and light wood floors. The tasting bar is an island in the middle of the room, lit with stylish drop-down light fixtures and a galvanized pipe around the bottom of the bar serves as a foot rail. There is also a long table next to the bar and a few tables along the walls and windows where visitors may enjoy their tasting experienced while seated. The wines are great, the staff is friendly and the place is gorgeous! Dont miss Medlock Ames Winery! By sue straight, The Wine Wench
VAriETALs Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, red blend, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and tiny amounts of ros and Pinot Noir pLAN AHEAD This is a great place to have a picnic and play ptanque! Purchase your picnic supplies from nearby Jimtown Store or Medlock Ames oers food and wine pairings for $20 per person by appointment only. After 5 p.m., the Alexander Valley Bar is open May through October. FUN FACT The original building was constructed during the 1860s. If only those walls could talk! LiTTLE KNOWN FACT In the season, Medlock Ames sells organic veggies and olive oil, all grown on their property.
Medlock Ames Winery

Tasting Room is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Alexander Valley Bar is open Sunday-Thursday 5 to 9 p.m. Friday & Saturday 5 to 11+ p.m. 3487 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg www.medlockames.com (707) 431-1418 Become a Fan on Facebook!
Try out the old-fashioned photo booth in the bar it actually works!
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Historic, casual-yet-elegant, friendly and delicious are all words that come to mind when thinking about Alexander Valley Vineyards. Historic: Alexander Valley Vineyards is located on the homestead that was originally settled and built by Cyrus Alexander in 1846. The Wetzel Family purchased the property (600 acres) in 1962 and produced the first of many great wines in 1975. The family lovingly restored the original home and made it the center of their family life. Casual-yet-elegant: The tasting room is bright and airy, with multiple windows and skylights to let in the warm Sonoma County sunshine. On cool and/or rainy days, a fire blazes cheerfully in the brick fireplace. Two long wooden tasting bars span the back of the room. Gift items, such as wine-related books, coasters, clothing, estate olive oil and more are artfully displayed around the room. Friendly: The tasting room staff is friendly, fun and informative youll want to stay and visit a while. Delicious: I tasted a handful of wines during my visit to Alexander Valley Vineyards the following wines were my favorites: Sin Zin ($20): This is one spicy Zinfandel! Alluring aromas of gingerbread, ripe blackberry, plum and pepper lure the taster into a juicy mouthful of consistent flavors. Yum! Estate Cabernet Sauvignon ($21): This is a classic Cab with a bargain price tag! Aromas and flavors of ripe cherry, cassis, cigar box and spice abound, all wrapped up in a luscious, velvety mouthfeel. By sue straight, The Wine Wench
COMpLiMENTArY WiNErY & CAVE TOUrs AT 11AM & 2pM DAiLY Explore the 25,000-square-foot wine cave, where more than 6800 barrels of wine are gently aging. Private tours & tastings are available by appointment for only $10 per person. LiTTLE KNOWN FACT Cyrus Alexander, founder of the homestead, was an explorer. When he rst laid eyes on his future homestead, he called it the best and brightest spot in the world. GrOWiNG GrEEN Alexander Valley Vineyards is one of only 14 wineries recognized as a certied Sonoma Green Business by the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. VAriETALs Award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and CYRUS The First Growth of Sonoma
Alexander Valley Vineyards

Open Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 8644 Highway 128, Healdsburg, CA 95448 (707) 433-7205 | 800-888-7209 www.avvwine.com www.facebook.com/alexandervalleyvineyards twitter: @avvwinery
Complimentary Tasting Oered Daily

You can read the statistics: Lancaster Estate has 53-acres of hillside vineyards in the coveted volcanic soil of the Alexander Valley and that the diversity of soils and the climate, with sunny days and cool evenings, are perfect for nurturing the Bordeaux varieties they are famous for. But, to be honest, none of this really prepares you for a visit to this amazing property. The seasonal changes in the vineyards are spectacular but theres so much more to see when you schedule an appointment with this luxury winery. As you wend your way up the private winery drive from Chalk Hill Road, past vineyards, wildflowers and the original winery buildings, suddenly you see a modern structure that is their state-of-the art winery. Inside you are in an intimate reception salon with a comfortable seating area, patterned contemporary carpet, stone floors and a granite-topped bar. Following a vineyard and winery tour you will be guided through a pair of tall wooden doors to a seated tasting in one of three exceptional tasting areas in the extensive wine caves. These caves are carved deeply into the adjacent hills where French oak barrels, filled with wine made from the vines you just touched, rest and age in perfect temperature and humidity. You will ultimately taste four wines during your visit including Sophias Hillside Cuve and the flagship Estate Cabernet Sauvignons, as well as a complex Sauvignon Blanc that has bright hints of citrus and beautiful floral aromas. Tastings are unhurried, friendly, and educational with a staff that obviously enjoys what they do and where they work. When you leave, you will remember the wines, the property and a very special wine country experience. By Charles Neave
VAriETALs
Varieties grown on the estate include Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc the traditional red Bordeaux blending varieties used in all Lancaster Estate Cabernets as well as Sauvignon Blanc.
TOUrs
All visits include a tour of the estate vineyards (weather permitting) and production facilities culminating in the wine caves for a special, seated tasting.
spECiAL TiMEs
Release parties, harvest lunches and member-only dinners are oered several times each year. Should your plans include any sort of special event or 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 possibility for Lancaster Estate Wine Guild Members.
pLAN AHEAD
Tastings here require a reservation. Call or book online at their website ($20 per person includes vineyard and winery tour followed by seated tasting in the wine caves). With advance notice you can upgrade to a Local Artisan Cheese-Paired Tour & Tasting Experience ($35 per person).
spECiAL OFFErs
For access to special events and library vintages, discounts on wine purchases, complimentary tours and tastings and other special privileges, consider joining one of their Wine Guild Membership programs.
Lancaster Estate
Open by appointment, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday
(daily beginning first weekend in June)
15001 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg (707) 433-8178 x209 | hospitality@lancaster-estate.com www.lancaster-estate.com Lancaster Estate is on Facebook & Twitter.
Mention Code: SCDAYTRIPS for a two-for-one tour & tasting.

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THiNGs TO DO safari West 3115 Porter Creek Road, Santa Rosa (707) 579-2551, www.safariwest.com Fun for all generations of your family! 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.
For more than a century, the Russian River has been a true gateway to the grandeur of California's wild nature and dramatic coast. Today, it is still a destination for all naturalists as well as an increasingly high-profile wine region and rightly so. Russian River wines are quickly becoming some of the finest, most sought-after wines in the world and artisan winemakers are finally getting their due. Come for the fresh air, fine wines, incomparable cuisines and relax! 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. Gilardi's Delicatessen, 810 Den Beste, Windsor, (707) 838-9869 Certainly a vine above the rest! Feast on homemade lasagna and freshly baked sourdough garlic breads. 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 wine country. 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.
Driving Time: 34 minutes From Hook & Ladder to DeLoach 4 miles to Martin Ray 4 miles to Sonoma-Cutrer 5 miles to Korbel 9+ miles Total 23 miles
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Not to scale
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 24acre 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 medals. The Land On 375 acres situated in Russian River Valley, the Hook & Ladder vineyards produce cool climate grapes widely recognized as some of the nest in the world. Fun Fact Look for the shiny red Willys vintage re truck near the driveway. For Gourmets The long, cool growing season here yields hand-picked olives with the intense, ripe avors for their extra-virgin olive oil. Made from mature Mission trees, the stonecrushed cold press master blend produces a richly avored 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 (re/police, etc.) get a 20% discount.
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This is a great place to consider if you are looking for a quintessential Russian River Valley wine country experience. The winery features a host of unique activities that take visitors beyond the typical tasting room experience, with a particular emphasis on education and exploration that brings people deeper into the wine world. A wonderful garden tour brings visitors a deeper understanding of Biodynamic farming and the role it plays in making great wines, all while enjoying fresh produce and treats from the winery chef while sipping sumptuous wines beside the vineyards. In the elegant, rustic guesthouse behind the tasting room, the walls are bedecked with gorgeous original art, created by students of the San Francisco Academy of Art. Book in advance to explore the finest terroirs of Burgundy with an exclusive guided tasting in the DeLoach Vineyards guesthouse. Enjoy a quiet, elegant retreat tucked amongst the vineyards while you discover the origins of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Boisset family of wineries in Burgundy, including Domaine de la Vougeraie, Bouchard Aine & Fils, Jean-Claude Boisset and Louis Bouillot, Burgundys premier producer of sparkling wines. Gorgeous picnic grounds in front of the winery invite guests to relax and enjoy the wine country. The landscaped garden is the perfect spot for a picnic, and DeLoach will provide a picnic basket of special delicacies, elegant linens, stemware, cutting board and knife along with your favorite DeLoach wine. While youre here, schedule a tour of the grounds for $15 (includes a wine tasting), or simply enjoy the wine tasting, sans tour for $10. Tours are at 11 a.m. By sue straight, The Wine Wench
VAriETALs Focused primarily on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Zinfandel, DeLoach also produces Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. LiTTLE KNOWN FACTs DeLoach Vineyards became a certied Biodynamic estate in 2009, which is a method of beyond-organic farming that looks upon the farm as a self-contained living organism, so all things on the farm are interconnected. At DeLoach Vineyards, there are sheep that keep the weeds under control in the vineyards and a huge ower and vegetable garden that provides produce and owers for special events. DeLoach has a very unique Barrel to Barrel program where you can have your very own French oak barrel in your home, complete with an eco-bag inside that holds three liters of wine, or four bottles. The barrel to barrel keeps the wine fresh while showcasing a very elegant, unique way to serve wine. The winery oers new wines each quarter to help keep your barrel full & delicious! Check out the fun website www.barreltobarrel.com.
DeLoach Vineyards
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1791 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa www.deloachvineyards.com For tours and reservations, call (707) 526-9111
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Mention Day Trips for complimentary 2 for 1 tasting.

Martin Ray Winery is an ambitious amalgam of labels and wines, all housed in one of Sonoma Countys most historic wineries. Courtney Benham is a third-generation San Joaquin Valley winemaker who knew he wanted to own a winery himself. In 1990, he discovered a treasure trove of old library wines with the label of Martin Ray, a Santa Cruz Mountains winemaker. Courtney bought the rights to the Martin Ray name and in 2003 purchased the historic Martini-Prati Winery in western Sonoma County; they are now home to the Martin Ray line of wines. One common thread is the firm belief that vineyard location is crucial to character and quality of the wine. There is a special emphasis on mountain-grown wines, a conviction that mountain-side elevation provides cooler nights during the growing season resulting 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, while Martin Ray wines have more structure and vineyard character and the Reserves are all vineyard designated. Courtney Benham wines are limited-production offerings from some of Californias most interesting wine regions. At the winery, picnic tables and chairs outside the tasting room look over verdant hills and vineyards. Lush, colorful landscape and flowers surround the tasting room and the tasting room staff can suggest interesting wines to taste side by side so you 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, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Gris, Malbec & Syrah ON THE ViNE The longer hang time (the time a grape cluster remains on the vine) means riper, richer fruit. You can nd the result right there in your glass. FUN FACT Martin Ray is one of the oldest historical winery sites in the Golden State (California) so, take your time and wander through the cellar and see the 10,000 gallon old-growth redwood tanks. pLAN AHEAD Allow extra time for a tour by appointment only of the historic production facilities as well as extensive tasting. The scenic drive there 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 at the winery.
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 rst purchase when you mention this story in the Tasting Room!
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What makes a tasting room visit special and memorable? Excellent wine? Charming location? Great staff? Yes, all of the above, and Sonoma-Cutrer, tucked away in the rural paradise of the Russian River Valley, has all of these. And here is proof: They make Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in a true French Burgundian style. Yes, the vines are in Sonoma County, but the clones are French, and the winemaking is pure Burgundian in method and tradition. The result is delicious wine at a fraction of the cost of its French counterparts. The winery is located in the cool Russian River Valley, a prime growing area for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. To get there you drive past lush vineyards and then up a tree-lined driveway to open lawns and panoramic vistas. Climb a flight of broad stone steps to a spacious, trellis-covered patio with tables and chairs and expansive views toward the west. Youll want to sit and drink it all in, which you can do with a glass of 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 oer 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 (707) 237-3489 www.sonomacutrer.com
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Mention this story for one complimentary tasting.

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 and, if you could dig down and see it, the soils. Korbel, an iconic name in wine country, has been making California mthode champenoise champagnes for almost 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 sparkling wines 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 sparkling wine enterprise, where French methods were used to make the premium California sparkling wines 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 Sparkling Wine (15 varieties), Chardonnay, Edelzwicker (white blend), Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Sherry, Port, Brandy (3 varieties) TOUrs Complimentary tasting and tours oered daily, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call ahead for group tours, (707) 824-7708 GArDEN TOUr HOUrs The Garden Tour is oered daily at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, from the middle of April through the rst 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.
20% o all California Champagne and Wine (excludes Brandy and merchandise).
Russian River
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Kenwood/Highway 12
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.
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) 833-4500, www.vineyardsinn.com Creative, organic, authentic flavors of Spain 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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Driving Time: 6 minutes From Ledson Winery to St. Francis >1 mile to Paradise Ridge 2 miles to Chateau St. Jean >1 mile to VJB Cellars >1 mile to Kenwood Winery >1 mile Total >4 miles
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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 parquet 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.
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
WiNEMAKEr pHiLOsOpHY
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 (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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With so many different options for wine tasting in Sonoma Valley, it can be difficult to choose one over another. One winery may have great wine and another may have a beautiful view. For the best of everything, come to St Francis Winery & Vineyards. Start by admiring the majestic view surrounding the Visitor Center. With its plush foliage, acres upon acres of vineyards and intricate, Tuscan-inspired architecture, St. Francis Winery is nothing short of breathtaking. Sit on the back patio taking in the view of 136 acres of estate vineyards as well as the grandeur of Hood Mountain. With three different tasting options, there is a selection of wines for every palate. Visitors can select from a mixture of whites and reds. Zinfandel fanatics can even enjoy a tasting exclusively comprised of different, distinct Zinfandels. The vast majority of St. Francis grapes come from Sonoma Valley, with the rest coming from other top appellations in Sonoma County, such as Dry Creek Valley and Russian River Valley. For the ultimate culinary wine adventure, reserve a seat at one of the daily wine and food pairings. The multi-course experience costs $35 and pairs four premium wines with exceptional gourmet foods from the winerys talented onsite Executive Chef David Bush. Availability varies by season. Call for information or reservations: 1-888-675-WINE. Shopping for a great wine club? AOLs Luxist recently named the St. Francis Patrons Society one of the best wine clubs in the U.S. By Brendan Conroy
pLANNiNG A spECiAL EVENT? The St. Francis Visitors Center is perfect for events such as company meetings or wedding receptions. Its a gorgeous setting, ideal for all types of gatherings and celebrations. WiNEs TO ENJOY Zinfandel lovers will delight in St. Francis selection of award-winning Zins. The 2009 Montecello Vineyard Zinfandel is a zesty, distinctive red, with pomegranate, cherry and black licorice aromas and ripe, supple wild berry, toasty dill and sage avors. The 2008 Pagani Vineyard Old Vines Zinfandel is a Sonoma Valley classic; spicy and brambly, with avors of dark fruit, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove, followed by a long, balanced nish. EXpEriENCE A FiLM UNDEr THE sONOMA sKY The winerys popular Stars Under the Stars outdoor summer lm festival returns for its third season on Thursday, July 12. Every Thursday evening for six weeks, spread a blanket on the lawn and enjoy live music, wine and food, followed by a lm in the vineyards, under the Sonoma sky. Admission is free!
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!
40 Kenwood/Highway 12
Present this story to receive two-for-one wine tasting.

Welcome to the Paradise Ridge tasting room, a piece of paradise, just off of Highway 12, next to the Kenwood Village in the heart of Sonoma Valley. At the entrance, large-scale sculptures created by local artists grace this boutique tasting room with its stunning views of lush vineyards and Sugarloaf Ridge. Enjoy a picnic, and bask in the warm Sonoma sun while tasting some of the finest wines from the Russian River Valley and the exclusive Rockpile Viticultural area. The tasting room has a cozy wine bar with nearby counter top tables where you can sample vineyard designated wines. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, taking pride in their viticulture education. Original artwork is showcased on the walls displaying the winerys love for family, community, nature, and history. Wine and art are the perfect pairing at the Paradise Ridge tasting room. Paradise Ridge Winery was founded in 1991 by Walter Byck and Marijke Byck-Hoenselaars. Together, they handcraft the highest quality, limited production, vineyard-designated wines. Their 2007 Elevation Rockpile Cabernet Sauvignon is a divine blend of Cabernet, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, winning several gold medals at various wine competitions, as well as, their 2009 Pinot Noir, winning Best in Class for its fruit with immense concentration and clarity. Hands down, these delectable wines deliver on their promise of excellence! Wines are available through the Kenwood tasting room, The Estate winery in Santa Rosa, their exclusive wine club or on-line at www.prwinery.com. Group and private tastings are available by appointment. By Monica L. Dashwood
pHiLOsOpHY An expression of fruit from the vineyard to the bottle, our wine is crafted to bring pleasure to food and friends. FUN FACTs Wednesdays at 6 p.m., starting in May, bring a picnic to the Estate Tasting Room, located in Santa Rosa, and enjoy Wines & Sunsets in Paradise. The Rockpile region with its high elevation, full sun exposure, mild daytime temperatures and little water keeps the vines in a constant state of tension, an unparalleled environment for wine grapes. The current indoor art exhibit features works by young artists from the Hanna Boys Center. The art pieces are for sale and a portion of wines sales are donated to the Center. VAriETALs prODUCED Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Zinfandel, Blush Ros, Cabernet Sauvignon, sparkling wine and proprietary blends
paradise ridge Byck Family Winery

Kenwood Tasting room & Art Gallery Open Daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 8860 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, (707) 282-9020 Estate Tasting room
4545 Thomas Lake Harris Drive, Santa Rosa, (707) 528-9463
www.prwinery.com www.facebook.com/paradiseridge www.twitter.com/paradiseridge
Mention Day Trips for 2-for-1 tasting.

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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. With a total annual production of slightly under 400,000 cases, consisting of 32 different wines (10 of which are distributed), Chateau St. Jean is well known in many wine circles. 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 two hours 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 $15 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 The Cabernet Sauvignon Cinq Cpages, Merlot Reserve, Reserve Chardonnay, Benoist Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Fume Blanc and for the sweet wine drinker, the Gewurztraminer. ONE sTOp sHOppiNG Chateau St. Jean has an exquisite merchandise section with assorted 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 1-800-543-7572
Follow Chateau st. Jean on Facebook!
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2 for 1 wine tasting and 15% o wine purchases with this story. $5 o the Promenade Tour and Tasting with this story.
Kenwood/Highway 12
The idea of a winery originally stemmed from Henry Belmonte and his brother, Victor. As one of the few family owned and operated wineries in Sonoma Valley, VJB emphasizes hospitality. Originating from their rich Italian heritage, the Belmontes treat guests as if they are family. In fact, most of the time, one is even able to meet father Vittorio, or his son, Henry, as they work in the tasting room where visitors can see for themselves their love of wine and people. One of the best representations of VJBs wine is the 2009 Barbera. It begins with ripe cherry, a hint of boysenberry, and ends with rich notes of cinnamon and a trace amount of jamminess. This is from start to finish, one of the best Barberas in the valley. Montepulciano and Sangiovese are also Italian varietals from VJB that should not be missed. Now producing roughly 5000 cases annually, VJBs highly acclaimed and often sold-out wines are exclusively sold at the tasting room and through the wine club known as Club Enoteca. The grapes themselves are mostly grown in Sonoma Valley on their estate vineyards and they mainly use neutral oak in order to emulate the Italian style of winemaking. Not only does VJB serve wine, but it also offers exceptional Italian coffee and homemade biscotti so that patrons can enjoy the facility at all hours of the day. By Brendan Conroy
sTANDOUT WiNEs VJBs agship wine is the Dante, an impressive Cabernet-Sangiovese blend similar in style to the storied Super Tuscans. The 2008 vintage has aromas of black cherry and red currant brightened by the red strawberry notes of the Sangiovese. It also exhibits hints of vanilla and baking spice. Firm acid and tannins give this wine great aging potential, but you can also enjoy it now with a juicy rib eye or pasta with a creamy mushroom sauce. Other favorite wines include the crisp, clean Gabriella Ranch Chardonnay and Mendocino Barbera, both gold medal winners in recent competitions. sTAY AWHiLE Theres more to VJB than just wine tasting. When the new tasting room and marketplace opens in the spring of 2012, visitors will experience the hospitality and unique culture that is a testament to the Belmonte family's Italian heritage. At the new marketplace guests can purchase estate grown olive oil, Maria Belmonte's pasta sauces, or even pick up some tips at one of her cooking classes hosted in the outdoor kitchen, fully equipped with a wood red pizza oven, rotisserie & BBQ. In the cucina, visitors will nd cheese, charcuterie and light meals for a picnic on the piazza, an ideal place to linger over lunch and soak up a little bit of Italy in the heart of Sonoma Valley.
VJB Vineyards & 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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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 Best of Show, Sweepstakes Winner and several Best of Class medals just at the 2011 Sonoma County Harvest Fair alone. Whether you sip the Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, 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 35 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 2 to 4 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 a weekend 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. 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, Gewurztraminer, 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.
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Enjoy a Complimentary Tasting plus 20% O Wine Purchase (Oer Excludes Red Vintage Wines and Discontinued Wines.) Kenwood/Highway 12
Glen Ellen
THiNGs TO DO Jack London state Historical park 2400 London Ranch Rd., Glen Ellen Half-mile-long trail cirlcles through world-famous author, Jack Londons Beauty Ranch features the remains of Jack Londons dream home destroyed by fire before moving in as well as a museum and the grave site of Jack and Charmian London. Quarryhill Botanical Garden 12841 Highway 12, Glen Ellen (707) 996-6027, www.quarryhillbg.org Asian botanical gardens featuring one of the largest collections of documented, wild-collected Asian plants in the world.
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.
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. saffron 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 938-4844, www.saffronrestaurant.com The menu of California fusion cuisine constantly evolves, with the only constant entre being Chriss centerpiece dish, Paella. 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.
Bouverie preserve 13935 Highway 12, Glen Ellen (707) 938-4554, www.egret.org Magnificent 535-acre property features a rich and distinct combination of plants and animals, including more than 130 species of birds, 350 species of flowering plants and numerous large mammals such as the bobcat, grey fox, and coyote. The red Barn store at Oak Hill Farm 15101 Highway 12, Glen Ellen (707) 996-6643, www.oakhillfarm.net Rustic 100-year-old dairy barn selling fresh herbs, lettuce, heirloom vegetables, flowers and ornamental greens, handcrafted wreaths, dried goods, bouquets and gifts.
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Driving Time: 39 minutes From Akma Zome to Valley of the Moon 4+ miles to B.R. Cohn Winery 1 mile to Arrowood >1 mile to Loxton Cellars 3 miles to Moondance Cellars 3+ miles to Eric Ross >1 mile to Audelssa Estate >1 mile to Mantanzas Creek 7+ miles Total 20+ miles
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Better to schedule two Day Trips when visiting Glen Ellen wineries!
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If you are a first timer heading to Akma Zome at Mountain Terraces Vineyard, make sure you have a map in hand (your GPS wont get you here). While the property is a little remote (it sits 1,800 feet above the Sonoma Valley floor), it is truly worth the drive for both the wines and for the view. When you get there, and its a clear day, you will be able to see the city of San Francisco, San Pablo Bay and the top of the Golden Gate Bridge. If you get there on a cloudy or foggy day, no worries, as you will be above the cloud and fog line. And then you get to taste the wines! Akma Zome is Greek for we live, which certainly describes the philosophy of owners Gloria and Dan Schaefer. Wine is a celebration of life, says Gloria Schaefer, and we enjoy sharing our wine with others. The vineyard is 125 acres with 80 acres of Bordeaux- and Rhne-style grapes planted. The property also boasts some 600 Italian olive trees that create some of the best olive oil produced in Sonoma County. The three Akma Zome wine varietals include Apollo, a Bordeaux blend; Zeus, a reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and Athena, a Rhne-style Syrah. Created by winemaker Jeff Ames, all the fruit is grown on the estate in a soil base that includes lava on one side of the vineyard and ash on the other side. Akma Zome at Mountain Terraces Vineyard offers the quintessential day trip experience. With incredible views and great vintages, guests are encouraged to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a bright, sunny afternoon with friends and family overlooking the Sonoma Valley and the City by the Bay!
OVErALL pHiLOsOpHY Dont forget to stop and smell the vino. The overall message imparted by the Schaefer family is very festive and emphasizes the celebration of life. sEEiNG THE siGHTs From Mountain Terraces Vineyard, guests can see not only a beautiful view of the Sonoma Valley, but also the San Pablo Bay, the city of San Francisco and the top of the Golden Gate Bridge. Arguably one of the best views in the Sonoma Valley. pACK A piCNiC You can easily make an afternoon of it at Akma Zome at Mountain Terraces with a tour of the vineyards hosted by owners Gloria and Dan Schaefer and a picnic lunch taking in the breathtaking vistas. And dont forget to bring some bread for dipping in the estate olive oil.
Akma Zome
at Mountain Terraces Vineyard Open by appointment only. For tours or more information, contact Gloria and Dan Schaefer (707) 996-1787 | gloria@akomazoume.com Follow Akma Zome on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AkomaZoume
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Check in or Tweet about your visit and receive a gift while you are here!
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, Pinot Blanc, 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. TAsTiNGs Tasting fees are $5 per person or a reserve tasting is $10 per person. The tasting fee is waived with a three bottle purchase. Hungry while tasting? A deli platter or cheese plate can complement your wines for $10. spECiAL EVENTs Check the website for fun events such as: IRS Blues, April 14-15, $20 ($10 wine club members) Mothers Day, May 13, complimentary sparkling wine Fathers Day Tasting, June 17, Port with chocolate Kenwood Car Show, August 5, displaying classic and antique automobiles
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.
Enjoy a Complimentary Standard Tasting plus 20% Off Wine Purchases (offer excludes brandy and sale items).
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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 26th 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 rst crop of grapes to August Sebastiani. 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 rst four vintages. Bruce Cohns favorite car is his classic 1933 Willys Roadster, one of only 98 built in Australia. Besides owning one of Sonomas most famous wineries, Bruce Cohn is also the manager of the Doobie Brothers. The B.R. Cohn farmhouse was once used as a stagecoach stop for Wells Fargo.
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
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BRCohn Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/brcohnwinery YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/brcohnwinery Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/brcohn/
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2-for-1 wine tasting when you mention this article.

New food products in the Gourmet Shop: Blackberry Balsamic Vinegar.
With a roaring fireplace in the tasting room and a wrap-around veranda offering sweeping views of Sonoma Mountain, Arrowood Winery is the perfect winery to visit anytime of year. At Arrowood, the focus is squarely on great wine, and leading the way is a slate of truly special Cabernet Sauvignons. Arrowood is one of a scant few wineries that makes Cabernet Sauvignon from the historic Monte Rosso Vineyard, which was first planted all the way back in 1888. Arrowoods Monte Rosso Cab, hailing from a small block of the vineyard planted in the 50s, 60s and 70s, is classically dark and intense, with beautiful aromatics, complexity and elegance, with a lengthy and soulful finish. Arrowood makes a vast selection of other varietals, including three Syrahs that each show a different face of this versatile and interesting varietal. The same is true for the winerys various Chardonnays, and for white wine lovers Arrowood offers Gewrztraminer, Pinot Blanc and Viognier produced in very limited quantities. Winemaker Heidi von der Mehden took over winemaking duties in 2010 after three years as Arrowoods assistant winemaker. Heidi has the good fortune to work with fruit from some of the best vineyards in the area, including Arrowoods certified organic estate vineyard, Saralees Vineyard in the Russian River Valley and Monte Rosso Vineyard. On your trip through Sonoma Valley, drop by Arrowood for a Classic Tasting, featuring the best of what Sonoma County has to offer, or a Reserve Tasting, representing the best quality fruit selected for Arrowood wines. By Michelle J. Baker
pLAN AHEAD For a more intimate and in-depth experience, call ahead to reserve a spot for a Tour and Private Wine Tasting, held at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. daily ($20). Private Seated Tastings and Group Tastings also by appointment. VAriETALs Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Syrah, Gewrztraminer, Malbec, Merlot, Viognier, Cte de Lune Blanc (white Rhne-style blend), Cte de Lune Rouge (red Rhne-style blend) and a decadent Late Harvest Riesling LiTTLE KNOWN FACT Arrowood has a by-the-glass wine list; its easy to stop by for a glass of wine and enjoy the roaring replace in the winter; in the summer, hang out on the wrap-around veranda and enjoy the spectacular view.
Arrowood Winery
Open daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 14347 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen For tours or more information, contact 1-800-938-5170 | (707) 935-2600 www.arrowoodvineyards.com Become a fan on Facebook!
Mention 'Day Trips' and receive a 2-for-1 tasting and 10% o your wine purchase!
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Winemaker Chris Loxton began his lifes work as a research physicist, a career that lasted ten years. Then he decided it was time to get involved in the family business which was making wine. His father, grandfather and great grandfather were grapegrowers in his native Australia, but Chris was so taken with California that he was determined to make wine in the Sonoma Valley. The Sonoma Valley has so much history when it comes to winemaking, says Chris Loxton. My little corner of the world is surrounded by history Kunde Vineyards created in 1870s, Pagnani Vineyards since 1885 and Wellington started in 1890s all surround my property. Some 120 years of growing grapes means there is something right with the soil around here. Loxton has taken it upon himself to show off that history to his guests and has begun giving guided tours of his property to show his various vineyards and why they are planted where they are. When you walk down the road, you will see many old vines in some vineyards and at the same time, you will see many new vines that may be 10 to 20 years old in other vineyards. Its the soil that dictates what to grow and where to grow it, not the winegrower, says Loxton. And thats what he points out to his guests during his Saturday and Sunday morning tours. Following the 30 to 45 minutes 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. By Mike Hyland
HiGHLY rECOMMENDED: If visiting Loxton Cellars on a weekend, call (707) 935-7221 and reserve a spot for the Vineyard Walk with owner/winemaker Chris Loxton. This educational tour, which takes about 90 minutes, begins at 10:30 a.m. and ends with a special tasting. VAriETALs Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Reds, Late Harvest Zinfandel, Port FUN FACT Chris is the fourth generation involved with grape growing. The previous three generations have owned the family vineyard at Moorook in the Riverland of South Australia, with the grapes sold to local wineries or used for dried fruit production. WiNE FAVOriTEs 2008 Kick Ranch Syrah or the 2009 Sonoma Valley Port made with Syrah
Loxton Cellars
Open Daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 11466 Dunbar Road, Glen Ellen (707) 935-7221 | www.loxtoncellars.com Find Loxton on Facebook and Twitter.
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Dont miss the Walkabout Tours on Saturday and Sunday mornings, only $15 per person.
Not everyone in the wine industry takes themselves seriously. Some have a blast doing what they love and enjoying the ride. Priscilla and David Cohen are two of the most friendly, approachable vintners in Sonoma County. Their casual, welcoming tasting room offers exactly the kind of personal, one-of-a-kind wine country experience that many people seek when visiting this famous region. 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 By ronda Giangreco craft and take his place alongside the best.
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 fuelinjected 1966 Chevy Nova. Priscilla likes to spend as many days o 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 daily 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.
Complimentary tasting with mention of this magazine. 100% Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back LOL! x
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If one is charged with finding a perfect wine for the perfect meal, Eric Ross is the place to look. With a wide variety of different grapes originally descending from such prestigious regions as France, Spain and even Croatia, any consumer can discover a wine that would not only go with their favorite meal, but also could be enjoyed on its own. Stylistically, each wine has a bold, fruity front palate which only blossoms the longer one savors it and very elegantly finishes without bite or harsh tannin. The wine makes a statement without being abrasive. As one is deciding on a preference between the different wines (which is no easy feat), take a moment to experience the photography adorning the tasting room. 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 taking pictures of vineyard workers as they worked diligently in the vineyards. Each one of his photographs has a story to be told. Viewers can observe life from moment to moment through the eyes of these dedicated vineyard workers. With a total annual production of roughly 3000 cases, Eric Ross does not distribute outside of the tasting room and thus is very hard to come by. 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 Become a Fan of Eric ross Winery on Facebook!
WiNEs NOT TO Miss 2010 Marsanne~Roussanne The two varietals produce a rich nutty oral characteristics of apricot, ripe melon and pear followed by bright acidity and lovely honeyed textures. 2010 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 Marsanne-Roussanne, Albarino, 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 specic pictures stem from the minimalistic presentation of the photograph contrasted with the depths of emotion in the central point of focus.
Eric ross Winery

Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 14300 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 939-8525 | www.ericross.com For private tastings, contact Dennis & Diane (707) 939-8525 or ddmitchell@ericross.com
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Each wine from Eric Ross is unique and complex for one reason only, great wine is made in these quality driven vineyards, not the cellar. Once you Taste The Vineyard your palate will be forever spoiled!
Spend a sunny day in Glen Ellen and enjoy Audelssas unique tasting room, located in the historical Charles J. Poppe building, near Jack London State Park. Audelssa Estate Winery is the home of Extreme Viticulture, where Erich Bradley, winemaker, selects top-notch grapes from their hillside vineyards on the Mayacamas Mountains. The fruit comes from steep, rocky terrain, where the elements are harsh, the heat intense, the winds and drought severe. The vines struggle with purpose, producing intense, concentrated wines. Only the best French oak barrels and organic, natural processes, including native yeast fermentations are allowed. Audelssas intimate tasting room offers two types of tastings. No appointment is needed to stop by and sample some of their well-known varietals, including the 2009 Chardonnay, a well-balanced wine with aromas of pineapple, baking spice and stone fruits, and the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, which shows notes of dark cherries, mocha and creamy oak amidst silky, refined tannins.For a more intimate and elegant experience, seated comparative tastings of limited wines are offered with advance reservations for $40. Pourings include their flagship Bordeaux blend, 2008 Summit, and the acclaimed 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve paired with artisanal cheeses. The annual case production of Audelssa Estate Winery is just 4,000 cases, which is available only from their tasting room, website or through membership in their wine club. By Monica L. Dashwood
LiTTLE KNOWN FACTs The historical Charles J. Poppe building, where Audelssa is today, was once a general merchandise and grocery store dating back to 1893. All wines produced by Audelssa are from their estate on the Mayacamas Mountains. Audelssa produces just 200 barrels a year o of 65 acres of organic vineyards. VAriETALs prODUCED Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah, Grenache, and a classic Bordeaux Blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc JOiN THE CLUB! Audelssa oers a wine club experience like no other. You can customize your shipments each quarter to meet your personal taste. Join their wine club to get Member Only wines like Malbec, Grenache and other Rhne varietals.
Audelssa Estate
Open Daily, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 13750 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen (707) 933-8514 | www.audelssa.com www.facebook.com/Audelssa
Shipping is included on orders of six or more bottles.

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Matanzas Creek Winery is a lovely, peaceful destination that is easy to get to, yet it seems miles away from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind. Once there, youll want to relax and stay a while. The winery and tasting room are surrounded by gorgeous landscaping, which includes over two acres of lavender fields and the grounds and picnic areas are shaded by majestic oak trees. The tasting room is rustic, yet elegant hardwood floors, high ceilings and tasteful lighting set the stage in the large front room and down the art-adorned hallway (all of the art on display is by local artists). Gift items, such as wine-related books, coasters, clothing, lavender-based items and more are artfully displayed around the room. The generous, curvaceous tasting bar adorns one large corner of the room. I tasted a handful of wines during my visit they were all excellent, but the following wines were my favorites: 2010 Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County ($19): Mouthwatering aromas of grapefruit, peach, cut hay and lemongrass lead into a juicy mouthful of consistent flavors. 2008 Chardonnay, Sonoma County ($26): This is a classic Chardonnay, with just the right amount of buttery creaminess, balanced by bright, juicy citrus notes. Lovely! By sue straight, The Wine Wench
LiTTLE KNOWN FACT All of the lavender bath and body or culinary products available in the tasting room are from estate grown lavender. FUN FACT Two private tours are available and can be booked online or via phone: The Tour and Bar Tasting happens 10:30 a.m. daily. This 60-minute adventure includes a tasting at the tasting bar and a tour of the estate. The Tour and Vintage Room Tasting is a 90-minute adventure, hosted by one of Matanzas Creek Winerys hospitality specialists. Tour the estate, then relax and enjoy a private tasting in their Vintage Room (up to six people). rELAXiNG FACT Purchase a bottle of Bennett Valley or Jackson Park Merlot and enjoy it on the deck with stunning views of Jackson Park the vineyard the wine youre enjoying hailed from. You can even play bocce if you like! VAriETALs prODUCED Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Syrah
Matanzas Creek Winery hosts some wonderful events during the year, including: April 21 Get Zen Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County Release Open House May 20 Sauv Blancs Release Party Bennett Valley and Helena Bench new release June 30 Days of Wine & Lavender July 21 Wonders of the Honey Bee Seminar & Wine County Barbeque October 12 Journey Release Winemaker Dinner Visit www.matanzascreek.com for more information about these events and more!
Matanzas Creek Winery

Open Daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 6097 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa 1-800-590-6464 www.matanzascreek.com www.facebook.com/matanzascreek
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Mention Day Trips and receive a 2-for-1 tasting and 10% o your wine purchase!
Glen Ellen
Sonoma
THiNGs TO DO sonoma plaza Picturesque city plaza boasts unique shops, fine art galleries, award-winning restaurants and fine wines available for tasting. Historic points include: Mission San Francisco de Solano, Barracks, Toscano Hotel, Bear Flag statue. sonoma TrainTown railroad 20264 Broadway, Sonoma (707) 938-3912, www.traintown.com The Most Well-Developed Scale Railroad in the Americas! Steam and diesel scale railroad rides, petting zoo, miniature town, ferris wheel and carousel rides. Depot Museum 270 First St. West, Sonoma (707) 938-1762, www.vom.com/depot Open 1-4:30 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday Fine museum with historically significant collections. Admission is free.
Visitors seeking an over-the-top ultra-luxury wine country experience would best steer clear of idyllic, slow Sonoma Valley. Sure, doublewide tractors grace the two-lane Highway 12, wide-open ranchlands blanket the valley between towns, and wooly sheep keep weeds and 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. Excellence is what they do its just done in blue jeans. sebastiani Theatre 476 First St. East, on the Plaza, Sonoma (707) 996-2020, www.sebastianitheatre.com Enjoy an eclectic blend of cinema and live entertainment that includes critically acclaimed art, foreign, and classic films, contemporary and vintage music, magic, ballet, opera and musical theatre built in 1933. ramekins Cooking school 450 West Spain St, Sonoma (707) 933-0450, www.ramekins.com Experience the essence of Sonoma Wine Country with cooking classes, events even four-day culinary retreats! Home of General Vallejo "Lachryma Montis" West of the plaza on W. Spain St., $3 1850s Victorian house furnished with Vallejo's personal effects - as though the General and his wife had just stepped out. FOOD Della santinas 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 935-0576, www.dellasantinas.com Traditional Italian fare is based upon Quirico Della Santina's 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.
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Driving Time: 17 minutes From Roche to Charles Creek >1 mile to Haywood Winery >1 mile to Bryter Estate 2+ miles to Buena Vista Winery 1+ miles to Ravenswood 1+ miles to Della Santina >1 mile Total 6+ miles
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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 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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Few wineries begin as an attempt by a young couple seeking a better place to raise their kids. But Drs. Joseph and Genevieve Roche, having both been raised on Irish-American family farms, had hoped to impart a similar childhood for their own growing brood. So, 35 years ago, the Roches and their four kids left San Francisco for a bucolic old cattle ranch in south Sonoma Valley. For years, Joseph and Genevieve Roche continued to practice medicine while farming cattle, having understood by conventional wisdom at the time that the Carneros region was too cold to grow grapes. Then in 1982, a casual conversation with an established vineyard grower led the Roches to believe their cattle ranch could indeed be a great place to grow grapes. The fall of that year, the family planted five acres of Pinot Noir and five acres of Chardonnay. The odd-man out, the Roche vineyard was miles away from the established grape-growing regions of Sonoma and Napa. But with their very first harvest, the exceedingly exceptional quality of their grapes was obvious. From the start, Roche vineyards signaled a new era as well as an entirely new region for grape growing and wine production. In 1989, Joseph and Genevieve opened Roche Carneros Estate Winery. Today, the Roche winery is still a family owned and operated business with the second generation now in charge (a third generation born!). Their original 10 acres of vineyards has now grown to more than 130 acres of producing vineyards located both in Carneros and Sonoma Coast AVAs, and their wines continue to receive local and national acclaim. Visit their popular and bustling, highly enjoyable tasting room located just off Sonoma Plaza on Spain Street (next to Girl & the Fig restaurant.) Stop in and enjoy food and wine pairings on the shaded patio or in one of the indoor or outdoor bars. By appointment, taste in the familys VIP Tasting Room. Or, simply kick back with friends and family to enjoy some of the finest wines Sonoma Valley has to offer. By Abigail p. Zimmerman
UNiQUE WiNE COUNTrY EXpEriENCE Book a guided Vineyard Bike Tour on the familys 500-acre ranch and estate. (Advanced bookings are required. Open to all skill levels.) GOOD TO KNOW Located just o historic Sonoma Square, Roche Winery Tasting Room is a must stop! The Roche family makes only a few hundred cases of any single wine. WiNEs AVAiLABLE FOr TAsTiNG DAiLY Hand-made lots of locally grown Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, proprietary blends and even dessert wines! BArrEL TAsTiNGs DAiLY! Also, dont miss samples of the Roche estate and virgin olive oils. Delicious! A TrUE AMEriCAN-irisH WiNErY Did you know one of their wine club trips included a trip to Ireland to visit their familys farm?
roche Winery & Vineyards

Open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. & Sunday 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 122 West Spain Street, Sonoma www.rochewinery.com (707) 935-7115
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Free Tasting (with purchase): $5 tasting fee refunded with purchase of one bottle of wine.
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. Their 2009 Las Patolitas Chardonnay was named the Best Chardonnay of California at the 2011 California State Fair with a score of 98 points and a double-gold medal, as well. 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, but they also produce some marvelous smaller lots of Malbec, Tempranillo and Grenache. 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 selfscouring 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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It is a new story with a long and distinguished past. The history is about winemaker and vintner Peter Haywood, a legend among Zinfandel lovers from around the country. Another part of the back story begins in 1973 and is about Sonomas Los Chamizal Vineyard and the Haywood Estate Winery, located in the hills high above this part of Wine Country. The new chapter in the Haywood story is their just-opened tasting room off the Sonoma Plaza. Down a beautiful and charming European alley, it is stylish and comfortable, with wide-board wood floors, a warm gray and beige color scheme, wine racks on either side and a compact U-shaped tasting bar. There are a couple of caf tables inside and two right outside the door, where you can take a glass of wine and relax and imagine you are near the Mediterranean. Behind the bar is a large painting by the talented artist Tom Clark, and off to one side is an intimate room for private tastings and small groups. At times the entire space is taken over for small special events. Oh, and if the painting looks familiar, take a look at the wine labels. Peter remains sole proprietor of the winery that bears his name, and he still produces wine in the Old World manner. The wines available for tasting includes Single Vineyard Zinfandels; a clean, crisp, well-rounded Chardonnay; Primitivo (an Italian Zin) and Cabernet Franc. The perfect wines to sample in this casual, laid-back spot. By Charles Neave
VAriETALs Chardonnay, Single-Vineyard Zinfandel, Primitivo and Cabernet Franc THE ViNEYArD In addition to the varietals that make up the Haywood Estate labels, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec are also grown on the 190-acre estate. LOCATiON The Haywood tasting room is just a few yards from the Historic Sonoma Plaza, which is full of California history, restaurants of every avor and style, and dozens of unique and interesting shops, galleries and boutiques. THE NUMBErs Annual production is limited to 5,000 cases. pLAN AHEAD Sonoma is known for having a good time and throwing great parties, so be sure to go on the web to nd out what is going on when you plan on visiting.
Haywood Estate
Open every day 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. 25 East Napa Street, Suite C, Sonoma (707) 933-3001 www.haywoodwinery.com Follow them on Facebook and Twitter
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Check their website for special oers, www.haywoodwinery.com.

Sonoma
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, are original art pieces by masters Dali, Chagall and Vlaminck, as well as featured local artists. BRYTER Estates delivers on their promise of California treasured wines, producing nine varietals such as, the Double Gold award winning 2010 Affine, a lightly oaked crisp Chardonnay, with notes of apple, pear and zesty lemon, the Gold winning 2009 Napa Valley Inspired Cabernet Sauvignon with rich velvety tannins, balanced oak and fruit, as well as the 2009 Napa Valley Maritus Cabernet Sauvignon blend, and 2010 Lux Chardonnay. BRYTER Estates wines are available in very limited quantities and sold only in their tasting salon, select restaurants and wine club. The BRYTER Estates Tasting Salon is a comfortable, relaxed and fun wine sampling experience you wont want to miss! By Monica L. Dashwood
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 avors of citrus and pear with beautiful oral aromas and a crisp nish. VAriETALs prODUCED Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese and Marsanne FUN FACTs Each month a large studio easel will hold a blank canvas, inviting visitors to paint their own artistic vision, producing a communal eort, a collective work of art for everyone to see! Winemaker, Terin Ignozzi, rst learned how to make wine from her Italian grandparents.
BrYTEr Estates
Open Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 25 East Napa Street, Suite E, Sonoma www.bryter.com | (707) 501-8272 www.facebook.com/BryterEstates
Join the BRYTER wine club and receive special oers, invitations to events, and discounts on wines.
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One of Californias first wineries remains one of its finest. Founded in 1857 by a man as colorful in character as oenologically savvy, Buena Vista Winery is a treasure for wine lovers and history buffs visiting wine country. Hungarian Count Agoston Haraszthy (1812-1869) came to America in 1840 as a penniless aristocrat with a restless spirit and a profound interest in successfully reproducing the fine wines from his home continent. He made his dreams a reality after discovering Sonoma Valley. Haraszthy brought dreams of winemaking to his Buena Vista and the know-how, as well as thousands of cuttings from European wine varieties the very first vinus vinifera grapes ever planted in California. At the time, wines were produced from hearty Mission grapes. But Haraszthy planted the tender vines of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay. And the rest, they say, is history. Count Haraszthy altered the destiny of the California wine industry by introducing both the varieties and winemaking processes largely still used today and created a winery that even today is renowned for excellent wine. Specializing in artisan wines and careful stewardship of more than 500 acres of estate vineyards, Buena Vista wines display an amazing array of fruit flavors and textures. Buena Vistas Carneros-grown fruit benefits greatly from vineyards straddling the southernmost tip of Sonoma and Napa counties. Coastal fogs and breeze cool the vines and extend the growing season. Wines are more balanced and fruit forward. By Abigail p. Zimmerman
Visit Buena Vistas Tasting Room and taste wine in Californias first Press House.
rUN-iNs WiTH THE LAW Just before coming to Sonoma, Count Haraszthy accepted a position as an Assayer of Gold in San Francisco during the California Gold Rush. He was quickly accused of and tried for embezzlement. It seems his estimates consistently ran short of actual gold weight. But he was acquitted. The very next day, the Count purchased the Buena Vista properties. All cash. OUCH! According to legend, Count Haraszthy met his end in South America. Crocodiles ate him! DONT Miss Buena Vistas new release and homage to their founder THE COUNT FOUNDERS RED wine. A special blend from only the best fruit from Sonomas prestigious vineyards. Also, be sure to try Buena Vistas Clone specic Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as well as Ramal Vineyard wines.
Buena Vista Winery

Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma 1-800-926-1266 | www.buenavistawinery.com Find Buena Vista Winery on Facebook
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Mention Day Trips and receive two 2-for-1 tastings!

Many years ago when almost everyone thought Zinfandel was white, I was given a bottle of Ravenswood Zin and nothing has been the same since. Ever have an epiphany? Well that was mine and to this day I am eternally grateful. None of this would have happened without the vision of Joel Peterson, affectionately known as the Godfather of Zin who always had a passion for wine. Starting out with a garage winery and crushing his first four tons of grapes in 1976 right before a thunderstorm he built Ravenswood into the largest producer of fine Zinfandel in the world, and continues to be very hands-on at the winery, and his dedication and encyclopedic knowledge shows in every bottle. Nestled into the foothills of the Mayacamas Range that divides Sonoma and Napa counties, this fabled winery is literally at the end of the road. Once you arrive you can take it all in from their outdoor lounge perhaps with a sampling of local artisan cheeses to pair with the wines (May-September). Overall it is a fun, light-hearted and friendly experience, self-described as rural and charmingly rustic (but not too rustic). The tasting room staff is passionate about our famous Zinfandels and enjoys our relaxed and laid-back approach to presenting single vineyard wines, said tasting room manager Kristin Wastell. Joel is thoughtful, enthusiastic and humorous in his approach to life and winemaking. We share in his joi de vivre and guarantee your visit to Ravenswood Tasting Room to be as memorable as Joels wines. For over thirty years, we have lived up to our motto: No Wimpy Wines! Try them for yoursef! By Charles Neave
VAriETALs A collection of Zinfandels, Chardonnay, Rosato, a limited amount of Merlot, Petite Sirah, Carignane, ICON (native mixed black grapes) and two Bordeaux style wines: Rancho Salina & Pickberry. Add to that Gewurztraminer and Moscato. HisTOriCAL FACT Ravenswood is active in preserving and sourcing fruit from the oldest Zinfandel vineyards in Northern California. TOUrs Tours and barrel tastings begin at 10:30 a.m. Reservations are requested. Blending seminars are held at the winery and reservations are required by calling Peter Grith. FUN FACT The Ravenswood logo, designed by David Lance Goins (famous for his Chez Panisse posters) is a stylized circle of three ravens. pLAN AHEAD The winery is famous for their special events, so continue to check their website for dates, times and details.
ravenswood Tasting room

Open Daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 18701 Gehricke Road, Sonoma (707) 933-2332 | www.ravenswoodwinery.com Follow Ravenswood Tasting Room on Facebook & Twitter
Complimentary Ravenswood License frame No Wimpy Wines!

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Located off the historic square, Della Santinas is a family-owned 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 ights and specialty beers Assorted cheeses and panini served daily Winemaker dinners and educational seminars Bimonthly wine club featuring wines of the world Both locations are available for private events.
Della santinas
The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; reservations are recommended. 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 935-0576 www.dellasantinas.com
Enoteca Della santina

The Enoteca is closed Mondays 127 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 938-4200 www.enotecadellasantina.com
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Mention this publication and get two wine ights for the price of one.
If you truly want to experience all of the beauty that a visit to the Sonoma Valley can provide, a bicycle tour by Wine Country Cyclery is definitely the way to go. Many visitors to the Valley make Wine Country Cyclery their first stop. The shop is conveniently located just off of the plaza in downtown Sonoma. They provide everything from bike rentals and tours to bicycle and accessory sales, bike fittings and servicing. If you are having trouble deciding which wineries to visit, let Wine Country Cyclery conduct your tour. They have full-day, half-day and self-guided tours available for you to choose from. They will even customize your tour to fit your cycling skill-level. Cycle along quiet country roads and learn about viticulture from their knowledgeable guides. Visit boutique wineries and sample wines in distinctive tasting rooms. A delicious lunch will await you at a winery picnic area where you can relax and soak-up all the valley has to offer. Should you find a wine you cant live without, place your order and they will pick it up and have it waiting for you upon your return to the shop. If you choose to be your own tour guide, dont worry, you can just rent a bike from Wine Country Cyclery. They have several options available at different price ranges and for different skill-sets. Their tour guide extraordinaire, John, keeps a supply of complimentary maps to the local wineries at the front counter and is happy to provide recommendations. The shop owners, Jeff and his son Jeffrey, are available to help with any last minute equipment needs. Their mechanics are available seven days a week to take care of needed repairs and adjustments so customers can be on their way in no time at all. By rebecca Arnn
FUN FACTs: Wine Country Cyclery boasts the youngest rental eet on the road, 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 certied tter will personally size you to your rental bike. Dont own your own equipment? They have a selection of helmets, locks and pedals such as Shimano, Look and SpeedPlay. Tour the Roche Family Winerys Historic Ranch and Vineyards on a bicycle: This guided tour is geared for riders of all abilities from 12 years of age. Riders will enjoy a beautiful ride through 130 acres of vineyards on the Roche familys ranch in southern Sonoma in the renowned Carneros wine growing region. Your two-hour tour will conclude with a private food and wine pairing.
Wine Country Cyclery

Open Daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 262 West Napa Street Sonoma (707) 996-6800 winecountrycyclery.com
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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-of-a-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 world's 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, 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! Alsina station Grill At CornerStone Sonoma 23570 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 933-4422, www.alsinagrill.com An Argentine steak house specializing in "Estancia" style range raised beef - Alsina offers a distinctive menu of traditional dishes influenced by Argentina's Italian and Spanish roots with beef, lamb, fish, organic produce, flavorful sauces and fabulous desserts. schellville Grill 22900 Broadway, Sonoma (707) 996-5151, www.schellvillegrill.com BBQ fare, sandwiches and burgers. Dynamite food, according to Guy Fieri, with better than any store-bought barbecue sauce.
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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. 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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Driving Time: 11 minutes From Viansa to Jacuzzi >1 mile to Cline >1 mile to Meadowcroft 1+ miles to Larson Family 1+ miles to Nicholson Ranch 3+ miles Total 7+ miles
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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 hilltop 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 classic wines are the 2008 Cabernet Franc and 2010 Pinot Grigio, both winning gold and best of class among others. The winerys marketplace offers specialty foods, including 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. Viansa is oering a 10-day European cruise in the fall of 2012 with owner and president, Lloyd Davis. Aboard one of the worlds top cruise lines, you will explore breathtaking ports and enjoy culinary delicacies and delicious Viansa wines. VAriETALs prODUCED Viansa produces 24 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 2008 Cabernet Franc This 2011 Gold Medal & Best of Class wine explodes with dark berry, mocha and cedar spice avors. 2010 Reserve Miglior Vino Bianco This Italian-inspired wine bursts with notes of tropical fruit, honeysuckle, vanilla, sweet citrus and baked apple. Viansa is the only grower of Vernaccia in Sonoma County.
Viansa Winery
Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 25200 Arnold Drive, Sonoma 1-800-995-4740 | www.viansa.com www.facebook.com/viansa/page www.twitter.com/viansawinery
BRING A FRIEND FOR A FREE TASTING! Purchase one weekend Wine & Food Pairing, and well treat you to a second one. Simply mention this offer when you make reservations and present this printed offer to your Viansa host to redeem. Limit of four guests per visit.
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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 Moscato Bianco, Dolcetto, Aleatico, Aglianico, Primitivo and historic, hard-to-find varietals such as Lagrein and Vernaccia. There is no need for a passport to be transported to the wine regions of Italy, just a short drive to Sonoma will provide all the charm, scenery and magnificent wines of the country without the time and expense of overseas travel. No visit to the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards is complete without a stop by The Olive Press Olive Oil Tasting Room and Gift Shop. Dedicated to anything and everything having to do with olives and olive oil, the shop offers samples of the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards award-winning olive oil that was inspired by the rich olive oils of Italy and Southern France. By ronda Giangreco
FUN FACT Valeriano Jacuzzi rst began selling grapes in the 1930s. They were Zinfandel, Carignane and Mourvedre, and went for a mere $30-$35 a ton! 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
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Join the Wine Club and receive special oers and discounts on wines.
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 rst 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 oered daily. Private tastings can be arranged by appointment. Visit clinecellars.com/tastings to plan your visit. WHATs COMiNG Up Cline Cellars will host the 16th Annual Dixieland Jazz and Wine Festival on July 14th. A local favorite in the wine country, this event is the perfect way to spend a summer day.
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 oers and discounts on wines.
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Meadowcroft Family of Wines including the Meadowcroft, Thomas Henry and Foyt Family labels is truly a distinctive wine tasting destination. Sitting amid exclusive, one-of-a-kind shops, a sculpture gallery, a cafe, a flower shop and more than 20 architectural gardens, this location offers whimsy, imagination and quite literally, food and wine for thought! Tom Meadowcroft selected this location, Cornerstone Sonoma, because of the uniqueness and matchless character of the property, not unlike his wines. Toms ascent from picking grapes in Bordeaux to his formal education at Napa College, as well as joining Buckland Vineyard Management, initiated and solidified his knowledge and relationships with an elite list of winemakers throughout Napa Valley. Tom considers his wines as a marriage between the European style of winemaking with the California style to create distinctive, enduring wines. In 1999 Tom bought his Mt. Veeder property, which he replanted and started anew. The first vintage from this new vineyard was his 2005 Cabernet which garnered a 94 rating in Wine Enthusiast and was named in the Top 100 Wines of the Year, as well as a Cellar Selection. While Tom is often in the vineyards, he does stop by the tasting room frequently and enjoys catching up with old friends and meeting new friends alike. By phyllis Hyland
UpCOMiNG EVENTs Songwriters in Sonoma music series every 3rd Thursday of the month Winemaker Dinner and Verical Tasting, Friday, March 30 at Community Cafe, Sonoma April In Carneros, Saturday and Sunday, April 21 & 22 VAriETALs Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and All She Wrote a Port-style red wine pLAN AHEAD Bring a picnic and enjoy the wine garden Large groups by appointment only Available for private parties
Meadowcroft Wines
Open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 23574 Arnold Drive, Sonoma (707) 934-4090 www.meadowcroftwines.com www.facebook.com/drinkmeadowcroftwines twitter.com/#!/catchthebuzzz
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Complimentary 2-for-1 wine tasting with this story.

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 off Highway 121, a few miles south of the Sonoma Plaza. 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 2007 Three Lab Cab, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Syrah, the 2010 Three Lab Chard, a full-bodied buttery and oaky Chardonnay, with vibrant citrus and green apple and pear aromas, and their newly released 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, a complex and well-balanced wine revealing aromas of cedar, clove, vanilla, coffee, spice, white pepper, cherry and cocoa. 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, visit their Dolly llama, 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. The Larson Family Winery four-bedroom Civil War-era farm house is now available for over-night stays! JOiN THE CLUB! The Circle M Wine Club gives members great discounts on wine, including 50% o cases of their Millerick Road label, mix or match. VAriETALs prODUCED Pinot Grigio, Gewrztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Noir Ros, Cabernet Sauvignon, Meritage
Larson Family Winery

Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.daily 23355 Millerick Road, Sonoma 1-800-938-WINE (9463) www.larsonfamilywinery.com www.facebook.com/larsonfamilywinery www.twitter.com/larsonfamilywinery
Complimentary 2-for-1 wine tasting with this story.

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A Rare Legacy in Family and in Exceptional Wine

Nicholson Ranch Winery started as a family-owned farm in what the wine-world now worships as Sonoma Valley AVA. Nicholson Ranch has been, and still is, at the forefront of carefully growing and hand crafting some of Northern Californias finest wines, specifically Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as well as Merlot and Syrah. The Ranch benefits greatly from a trifecta of soil types, cool but sunny microclimate and sloping hillsides. Ramona Nicholson is the backbone and exciting owner of this winery. Born and raised on the soil she now literally tills and farms herself, Ramona has grown up to take her familys property into the next generation of California grape-growing and winemaking history. Ramona is responsible for all aspects of their family-owned and operated vineyards and winery. She is highly regarded in the industry and, dare I say, serves as inspiration for leagues of aspiring winemakers and wine lovers. Nicholson Ranch is a must visit! Perched squarely on the cusp of Napa and Sonoma counties, it is a convenient drive from either valley. With too many gold medals and best in class awards to list, the Ranch is sure to please every visitor to wine country. Call ahead for a winery tour! Plunge deep underground into the labyrinth of caves and wine barrels on a private winery tour. Call (707) 938-8822, ext 15 By Abigail p. Zimmerman
GirL pOWEr! Ramona Nicholson is named 2010 Woman of the Year by the State of Californias 6th Assembly District. FAMOUs FOr piNOT! Be sure to try the 2008 Sonoma Valley Estate Pinot Noir. Winner of the famed San Francisco Chronicle competition, this dry-farmed Pinot is a perfect blend of California and Burgundy with notes of minerals, dark fruit, wet hay and forest oor. And, the 2007 estate grown Pinot Noir is the winner of three gold medals, a double gold and best in show. DONT Miss MY pErsONAL FAVOriTE 2007 Cuve Natalie Reserve Chardonnay. Named for Ramonas daughter, Cuve Natalie may be one of the nest Chardonnays being poured in all of California. GOOD TO KNOW Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch or sunset lakeside or in the fountain courtyard sipping Nicholson Ranch wines!
Nicholson ranch
Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 4200 Napa Road, Sonoma (707) 938-8822, Ext. 15 | nicholsonranch.com Follow Ramona and Nicholson Ranch on Facebook. Learn first about special events and offers.
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Mention Day Trips and receive 2 for 1 tastings!

Los Carneros
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. 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 re 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 eet (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 facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Destiny-Wine-Tours twitter: @destinywinetours
Mention this story and get 20% o your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours.
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If you truly want to experience all of the beauty that a visit to the Sonoma Valley can provide, a bicycle tour by Wine Country Cyclery is definitely the way to go. Many visitors to the Valley make Wine Country Cyclery their first stop. The shop is conveniently located just off of the plaza in downtown Sonoma. They provide everything from bike rentals and tours to bicycle and accessory sales, bike fittings and servicing. If you are having trouble deciding which wineries to visit, let Wine Country Cyclery conduct your tour. They have full-day, half-day and self-guided tours available for you to choose from. They will even customize your tour to fit your cycling skill-level. Cycle along quiet country roads and learn about viticulture from their knowledgeable guides. Visit boutique wineries and sample wines in distinctive tasting rooms. A delicious lunch will await you at a winery picnic area where you can relax and soak-up all the valley has to offer. Should you find a wine you cant live without, place your order and they will pick it up and have it waiting for you upon your return to the shop. If you choose to be your own tour guide, dont worry, you can just rent a bike from Wine Country Cyclery. They have several options available at different price ranges and for different skill-sets. Their tour guide extraordinaire, John, keeps a supply of complimentary maps to the local wineries at the front counter and is happy to provide recommendations. The shop owners, Jeff and his son Jeffrey, are available to help with any last minute equipment needs. Their mechanics are available seven days a week to take care of needed repairs and adjustments so customers can be on their way in no time at all. By rebecca Arnn
FUN FACTs: Wine Country Cyclery boasts the youngest rental eet on the road, 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 certied tter will personally size you to your rental bike. Dont own your own equipment? They have a selection of helmets, locks and pedals such as Shimano, Look and SpeedPlay. Tour the Roche Family Winerys Historic Ranch and Vineyards on a bicycle: This guided tour is geared for riders of all abilities from 12 years of age. Riders will enjoy a beautiful ride through 130 acres of vineyards on the Roche familys ranch in southern Sonoma in the renowned Carneros wine growing region. Your two-hour tour will conclude with a private food and wine pairing.
Wine Country Cyclery

Open Daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 262 West Napa Street Sonoma (707) 996-6800 winecountrycyclery.com www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
Located off the historic square, Della Santinas is a family-owned 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 ights and specialty beers Assorted cheeses and panini served daily Winemaker dinners and educational seminars Bimonthly wine club featuring wines of the world Both locations are available for private events.
Della santinas
The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; reservations are recommended. 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 935-0576 www.dellasantinas.com
Enoteca Della santina

The Enoteca is closed Mondays 127 East Napa Street, Sonoma (707) 938-4200 www.enotecadellasantina.com
Mention this publication and get two wine ights for the price of one.
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fine dining
GEYsErViLLE Diavola pizzeria & salumeria 21021 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville; 707 814-0111 Italian Cuisine Francis Ford Coppola 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville; 707 857-1462 Italian Cuisine
Catellis 21047 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville; 707 857-3471 Contemporary American and Italian Cuisine
Homan House 21712 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville; 707 857-3624 Homemade American Cuisine
HEALDsBUrG Aronti 235 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 431-1113 Mediterranean ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '
Bear republic Brewing Co. 345 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 433-2337 Traditional American Bistro ralph 109 Plaza Street, Healdsburg; 707 433-1380 Contemporary American and French Cuisine
Charlie palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen 317 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 431-0330 Contemporary American Charcuturie 335 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 431-7213 Cyrus restaurant 29 North Street, Healdsburg; 707 433-3311 Healdsburg Bar & Grill 245 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 433-3333 French Cuisine French Cuisine Grill
Madrona Manor 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg; 707 433-1542 Contemporary American Cuisine 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 California Cuisine Mediterranean Seafood
Zin restaurant & Wine Bar 344 Center St, Healdsburg; 707 473-0946 Contemporary American
GUErNEViLLE/FOrEsTViLLE Applewood inn 13555 Hwy 116, Guerneville; 707 869-9093 Farmhouse 7871 River Road, Forestville; 707 887-3300 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '
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 Contemporary American Cuisine Italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '
John Ash & Co. restaurant 4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa; 707 527-7687 California Cuisine La Gare 208 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa; 707 528-4355 syrah Bistro 205 5th Street, Santa Rosa; 707 568-4002 French Cuisine Contemporary American and French Cuisine Japanese Cuisine
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Ume 8710 Old Redwood Highway, Windsor; 707 838-6700
Zazu restaurant & Farm 3535 Guerneville Rd, Santa Rosa; 707 523-4814 Traditional American
bre akf ast bru nch lun ch din ner win e/b eer full bar out doo r se atin ent g ert ain me nt org ani c/lo cal pet goo frie ds ndl y cas ual ups cal e res erv atio ns
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fine dining
sEBAsTOpOL GTOs seafood House 234 South Main Street, Sebastopol; 707 824-9922 Seafood Hopmonk Tavern 230 Petaluma Avenue, Sebastopol; 707 829-7300 Traditional American Cuisine
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 Estate 400 West Spain Street, Sonoma; 707 933-3663 Italian Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine French Cuisine Italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '
Contemporary American Cuisine Italian Cuisine
Fig Cafe & Wine Bar 13690 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 938-2130 Contemporary American Cuisine 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 Hopmonk sonoma 691 Broadway, Sonoma; 707 935-9100 French Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine Traditional American Cuisine
Kenwood restaurant 9900 Hwy 12, Kenwood; 707 833-6326 Contemporary American/French Cuisine 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 Portuguese Cuisine Mexican Cuisine Thai Cuisine Steakhouse and Seafood French Cuisine '
swiss Hotel Bar & restaurant 18 West Spain St, Sonoma; 707 938-2884 Italian Cuisine 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 Cuisine Indian and Nepali Cuisine
pETALUMA Central Market 42 Petaluma Blvd North, Petaluma; 707 778-9900 Contemporary American Cuisine Cucina paradiso 114 Petaluma Blvd. N, Petaluma; 707 782-1130 Grazianos ristorante 170 Petaluma Blvd, Petaluma; 707 762-5997 Italian Cuisine Italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '
risibisi restaurant & Wine Bar 154 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma; 707 766-7600 Italian Cuisine
bre akf ast bru nch lun ch din ner win e/b eer full bar out doo r se atin ent g ert ain me nt org ani c/lo cal pet goo frie ds ndl y cas ual ups cal e res erv atio ns
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Chardo nnay
pinot B lanc
Gewurz tra
pinot G ri pinot G s/ rigio
sauvign on Blan c
miner
Find Your Favorite Varietals

Akma Zoma Glen Ellen, by appointment only, 707-481-7377 Alderbrook Winery Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-433-5987 Alexander Valley Vineyards Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-433-7205 Armida Winery Healdsburg, daily 11am-5pm, 707-433-2222 Arrowood Winery Glen Ellen, daily 10am-4:30pm Audelssa Winery Glen Ellen, daily, 11am-5pm, 707- 933-8514 B.R. Cohn Winery Glen Ellen, daily 10am-5pm, 707-938-4064 BRYTER EStates Sonoma, Tue-Sun 11am-6pm, 707-501-8272 Buena Vista Winery Sonoma, daily, 10am-5pm, 1-800-926-1266 Chalk Hill Estate Healdsburg, daily 10am-4pm, 707-657-4837 Charles Creek Vineyard Sonoma, daily 11am-6pm, 707-935-3848 Chateau St. Jean Kenwood, daily 10am-5pm, 1-800-543-7572 Cline Cellars Sonoma, daily 10am-6pm, 707-940-4030 De La Montanya Estate Healdsburg, open by appointment, 707-433-3711 DeLoach Vineyards Santa Rosa, daily 10am-5pm, 707-526-9111 Dry Creek Vineyard Healdsburg, daily 10:30am-4:30pm, 707-433-1000 Dutcher Crossing Winery Healdsburg, daily 11am-5pm, 707-431-2700 Eric Ross Winery Glen Ellen, daily 11am-5pm, 707-939-8525 Ferrari-Carano Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-433-6700 Forchini Healdsburg, Fri-Sun 11am-4pm, 707-431-8886 Haywood Winery Sonoma, open daily 11am-6pm, 707-933-3001 Hook & Ladder Santa Rosa, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-526-2255 JCB Tasting Room & Wine Bar Healdsburg, daily (check hours), 707-473-9707 Jacuzzi Family Vineyards Sonoma, daily 11am-5:30pm, 707-931-7575 Kenwood Vineyards Kenwood, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-833-5891 Kokomo Winery Healdsburg, daily 11am-4:30pm, 707-433-0200 Korbel Champagne Cellars Guerneville, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-824-7000 Lancaster Family Estate Healdsburg, Mon-Sat 10am-4pm by appt, 707-433-8178 Larson Family Sonoma, daily 10am-5pm, 1-800-938-WINE Ledson Winery & Vineyards Kenwood, daily 10am-5pm, 707-537-3810 Loxton Cellars Glen Ellen, daily 11am-5pm, 707-935-7221 Martin Ray Winery Santa Rosa, daily 11am-5pm, 707-823-2404 Matanzas Creek Winery Santa Rosa, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-528-6464 Meadowcroft Wines Sonoma, daily 11am-6pm, 707-934-4090 Medlock Ames Winery Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-433-8845 Mill Creek Winery Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 1-877-349-2121 Moondance Cellars Glen Ellen, daily 11am-5pm, 707-823-0880 Nicholson Ranch Winery Sonoma, daily 10am-6pm, 707-938-8822 Paradise Ridge Winery Kenwood, daily 11am-6pm, 707-282-9020 Peterson Winery Healdsburg, Fri-Mon 11am-4:30pm or by appt, 707-431-7568 Ravenswood Tasting Room Sonoma, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-933-2332 Roche Winery Sonoma, Mon-Sat 11am-6:30pm, Sun 11am-5:30pm, 707-935-7115 Rodney Strong Vineyards Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-431-1533 St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Santa Rosa, daily 10am-5pm, 1-888-675-WINE Sbragia Family Vineyards Healdsburg, daily 11am-5pm, 707-473-2992 Sonoma-Cutrer Windsor, Thu-Mon 10am-4pm, 707-237-3489 Stephen & Walker Winery Healdsburg, daily 11am-7pm, 707-431-8749 Topel Winery Healdsburg, daily 11am-7pm, 707-433-4116 Truett Hurst Winery Healdsburg, daily 10am-5pm, 707-433-9545 VJB Vineyards & Cellars Kenwood, daily 10am-5pm, 707-833-2300 Valley of the Moon Winery Glen Ellen, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-939-4510 Viansa Winery Sonoma, daily 10am-5pm, 707-935-4700
P46 P21 P30 P19 P49 P53 P48 P59 P60 P23 P57 P42 P63 P18 P34 P16 P11 P52 P10 P12 P58 P33 P28 P66 P44 P14 P37 P31 P69 P39 P50 P35 P54 P68 P29 P20 P51 P70 P41 P15 P61 P56 P22 P40 P8 P36 P26 P27 P13 P43 P47 P8
riesling
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Wine Varietals
Other
Cabern et Fran c
vignon
Tempra primotinillo/ vo
Barbera
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Zinfand
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sparkli ng
Carigna
Grenach e
Malbec
ros
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Wine Varietals
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Dessert Wines
petite s irah
ot
petit Ve rd
pinot N oir
sangiov ese
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Merlot
syrah
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Travelling around sonoma County
MILES
TRAVEL TIME Average) (Peak)
Golden Gate Bridge to Sebastopol Sebastopol to Santa Rosa Downtown Santa Rosa to Healdsburg Healdsburg to Geyserville
49 7 16 8
60 12 20 15
80 20 30 15

Sonoma County Day Trips Spring/Summer 2012

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Sonoma County Day Trips Spring/Summer 2012

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DAY TRIPS

Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country

from Sonoma to Geyserville

EiGHT WiNE TAsTiNG

FiFTY-TWO TAsTiNG rOOM rEViEWs

Dry Creek Valley

Downtown Healdsburg & Alexander Valley

South of Healdsburg Westside Road

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

707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674

SALES REPRESENTATIVE MANAGING EDITOR

Cover Photo by Norah Burrows, courtesy of Dry Creek Vineyard

Sonoma Country Preferred Wine Country

52 TAsTiNG rOOM rEViEWs

Heading to the Tasting room

A case of wine includes:

A single bottle contains:

An acre of vineyard land can give the grower:

What does all that information on a wine label mean?

Notes on Wine Tasting

Wine Bar Tasting

sit Down Tasting

Table service Tasting

Walk Around Tasting

Why make an appointment?

Destiny Wine Tours

Dry Creek Valley

SBRAGIA FAMILY VINEYARDS FERRARI-CARANO I-CARA CARA

Hope Merrill/ Hope Bosworth House

Lake Sonoma Hatchery

DUTCHER CROSSING FORCHINI PETERSON/KOKOMO TRUETT T HURST

Dry Creek Olive Oil

AVE. ERVILLE GEYS

RD. REEK DRY C

DRY CREEK VINEYARD

DGE BERT BRI AM

Dry Creek General YTTON SPRINGS Store

. RD. ER VAL XAND ALE

Ed and Adam Sbragia

sbragia Family Vineyards

Dry Creek Valley

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery

seasons of the Vineyard

Dutcher Crossing Winery

Dry Creek Valley

12 Dry Creek Valley

Truett Hurst Winery

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

Dry Creek Valley

14 Dry Creek Valley

Mention this story for a 10% discount on your wine purchase.

Dry Creek Valley

Dry Creek Vineyard

South of Healdsburg Including Westside Road

MILL CREEK ARMIDA

ALDERBROOK DE LA MONTANYA RODNEY STRONG

HILL RD. CHALK

Sonoma County Airport

De La Montanya Estate Vineyards & Winery

Bring in this story for 2-for-1 reserve tasting.

South of Healdsburg/Westside Road

Mill Creek Vineyards & Winery

20 South of Healdsburg/Westside Road