Truett Hurst Winery

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Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country DAY TRIPS T R I NINE P S

WINE TASTING from9 Cloverdale to Sonoma A publication of FORTYSIX 46TASTING ROOM REVIEWS plus Dining Directory and Varietals Chart www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Eastside Bunch Rockpile

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OCCIDENTAL RD. Kenwood OCCIDENTAL RD. D’ARGENZIO FULTON RD. LOST CANYON ANCIENT OAK WINERY BODEGA H and Hwy. 12 IGH WA CELLARS OF Y Santa Rosa SONOMA Pages 44-50 VA LL Pages 38-42 E Y FO R D C U LEDSON WINERY & VINEYARDS T O F F 101 ST. FRANCIS A Publication of Sonoma VINEYARDS & WINERY 116 Coast GRANGE EN GARDE CHATEAU ST. JEAN VJB MATANZAS VINEYARDS KENWOOD WINERY BENNETTCREEK VALLEY RD. & CELLARS

PETALUMA HILL ROAD LOXTON CELLARS

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com ROBLAR RD. MOONDANCE ERIC ROSS B.R. COHN 669 Broadway, Suite B • Sonoma, CA 95476 LITTLE VINEYARDS P.O. Box 92 • El Verano, CA 95433 Glen Ellen VALLEY OF 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674 Pages 51-58 THE MOON Tomales BODEGA BayPUBLISHER Mike Giangreco HWY 12 Direct (707) 938-3734 WASHINGTON [email protected] SALES REPRESENTATIVE Jet Howell, 707-495-9385 [email protected] FRATES Sonoma STAGE GULCH CHARLES Managing Editor Chandra Grant CREEK Pages 59-63 116 BRYTER Phone 707-938-1783 • Fax 707-938-3674 116 [email protected] 101 LARSON 12 Office Manager Cathy Gore FAMILY 121 Phone 707-938-3494 • Fax 707-938-3674 LAKEVILLE RD. 121 Los Email [email protected] MEADOWCROFT Carneros CLINE Region Editorial Michelle J. Baker, Brendan Conroy CELLARS JACUZZI FAMILY Contributors Monica L. Dashwood, Ronda Giangreco TO TO VIANSA TO NAPA Mike Hyland, CharlesSAN Neave, FRANCISCO Denise Olliffe SAN FRANCISCO 37 Sue Straight, The Wine Wench TO VALLEJO Abigail Zimmerman Los Carneros Cover courtesy of Chateau St. Jean Winery, Sonoma San Pablo Bay Pages 64-69 SPRING/SUMMER 2013 Sonoma County Preferred Wine Country day trips 9 WINE TASTING day trips helpful information Dry Creek Valley 11 Heading to the Tasting Room 4 South of Healdsburg 21 Sonoma Canopy Tours 5 Downtown Healdsburg/Alexander Valley28 The Wine Carriage 6 Russian River 33 Getaway Adventures 7 Wine Country Cyclery 8/63 Santa Rosa 38 Destiny Wine Tours 9 Kenwood 44 Della Santina’s 62/72 Glen Ellen 51 Dining Recommendations 71-73 Sonoma 59 Varietals Chart 74-77 Los Carneros 64 Sonoma County Wineries Map 78-79

46 Tasting Room Reviews Alderbrook Winery 24 Kenwood Vineyards 50 Ancient Oak 41 Kokomo Winery 18 Armida Winery 23 Korbel Champagne Cellars 34 B.R. Cohn Winery 57 Lancaster Estate Winery 31 BRYTER Estates 61 Larson Family Wines 69 Cellars of Sonoma 40 Ledson Winery & Vineyards 45 Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery 30 Little Vineyards Family Winery 56 Charles Creek Vineyard 60 Lost Canyon Winery 39 Chateau St. Jean 47 Loxton Cellars 58 Christopher Creek Winery 25 Martin Ray Winery 35 Cline Cellars 66 Matanzas Creek Winery 52 D’Argenzio Winery 42 Meadowcroft Wines 68 De La Montanya 22 Moondance Cellars 53 Dry Creek Vineyards 20 Mutt Lynch Winery 26 Dutcher Crossing 14 Rodney Strong Vineyards 27 En Garde Winery 48 St. Francis Winery & Vineyards 46 Eric Ross Winery 54 Sonoma-Cutrer 36 Family Wineries of Dry Creek Valley 17 Stephen & Walker Winery 32 Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery 13 Trattore Estate Wines 19 Forchini Vineyards & Winery 15 Truett Hurst Winery 16 Fritz Underground Winery 12 VJB Vineyards & Cellars 49 Hook & Ladder Winery & Vineyards 37 Valley of the Moon Winery 55 Jacuzzi Winery 67 Viansa Winery 65 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 3 Heading to the Tasting Room Do not be intimidated for any car or on a plane, buy a card- reason. That is rule number one board box with Styrofoam wine (and there are very few real rules inserts. Fill it during the day and after that). For the most part, this keeps wine from rolling going wine tasting is about the around in the trunk. easiest thing in the world, espe- Check out the smaller cially here in Northern California wineries. It is a revelation. where wineries and tasting Take notes on the wines you rooms abound. You can find most enjoyed. wineries specializing in red Take advantage of tours when wines of all types, those that are Twomey Cellars the winery offers them, but keep famous for their white wines and in mind that they take anywhere others who pour sparkling wine. It is a matter of doing a from 20 minutes to well over an hour, so one a day is plenty. little research and planning your day. Buy wines that you can only find at the winery. These Most tasting rooms open around 10 a.m. and close be- often include smaller (375 ml) bottles of limited produc- tween 4:30 and 6 p.m. As a rule sparkling wine houses are tion Ports or dessert wines. Don’t buy a wine you can get opened the latest. Before you start off pack a few essen- at a supermarket back home. You’ll pay more, and besides, tials: Water (plenty of water) and something to snack on – what’s the point? crackers or a baguette. Many wineries have picnic areas Look for tasting rooms in towns. Many of these are co- and there are plenty of delis and bakeries that can make up operative tasting rooms, where in one place you might find a lunch for you, or make your own. Which brings us to wines from a dozen or more small-to-medium premium eating and drinking, the kind that doesn’t directly involve producers. They are scattered throughout the area and wine. more are opening all the time. Be sure to nibble during the day and make sure you Don’t give too much thought to ratings and vintages. make time for lunch. Two tips: drink at least twice as much It’s like art: if you like it, it’s a good wine. It is as simple as water as you do wine, and remember that you don’t have that. to drink everything poured into your glass. There is a rea- Remember that you don’t have to do the driving. It son tasting bars have dump buckets and a pitcher of water takes no more than a phone call to rent anything from a to wash out your glass. Town Car or restored Packard convertible to stretch limos That said, here are some tips that have proven to be and a 20-passenger bus. All have drivers that will stow helpful and are designed to help make the sensory adven- your wine for you and the local companies know the area. ture of wine tasting all the more enjoyable. As to taking that wine home, ten people sharing one of Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Time and time again those impossibly long limousines is fine and fun, but if you I have heard knowledgeable winery workers say that there all plan to buy a couple of cases the trunk – which is no is no such thing as a stupid question, and they mean that. bigger than a normal luxury cars – is going to fill up fast You can drink what you want, in the order you want. and you’re going to find yourself filling the interior floor If you only like reds, say so; if you don’t like sweet wines, with boxes and using cases of Cabernet as footrest. speak up. But the idea of starting with whites, then going Tell the transportation company what you have in on to reds and then sweet wines is a good guide. mind and listen to their advice. They know the territory Zinfandel is red. I am sure you know that but it never and the people and personalities. See next page. hurts to remind everyone. Know your limits. If you get close to it let others taste If there is a particular wine you want to try and it is and you can listen. It beats ending the day in a blur, and if not on the list, ask. There might be a bottle around that need be calling a taxi is cheaper than the alternative. was opened for a trade tasting or by the winemaker. Most And if at a seated tasting, don’t be afraid to leave a tasting rooms are happy to pour a little if you show en- gratuity. It’s more than worth the five or ten dollars to get thusiasm. wisdom – and wine – and a great time. If you plan to take wine home with you, either in the BY CHARLES NEAVE

44 www.WineCountrywww.WineCountryThisWeek.comhisWeek.com Sonoma Canopy Tours If it’s on your bucket list to try something exhilarating, then step out of your comfort zone and into a harness at Sonoma Boldly soar through the redwoods on a Canopy Tours at Alliance Redwoods. Located in the heart of Sonoma Canopy Tours eco-adventure an ancient Northern California redwood grove in Occidental, a series of zipline challenges awaits thrill seekers. These aerial FAMILY FRIENDLY and excitement for ALL AGES tours are an adrenaline rush, as participants glide their way This is an incredible adventure to be enjoyed by through a 2.5-hour course in the treetop canopy. the entire family. Sonoma Canopy Tours’ oldest The view from the towering height of the platforms provides passenger was a woman who celebrated her an unparalleled vantage point, experienced only by birds or 93rd birthday ziplining. Please be aware that there is a minimum age requirement of by taking the tours. Perched high above the ground (at various 10 years or older. heights), are a sequence of seven ziplines, two sky-bridges and a one-of-a-kind spiral staircase wrapped around the trunk of a Walter lives here magnificent, giant redwood. The name of the oldest tree on the property Participants soar from platform to platform while taking in (you’ll have to take a tour to find out more the breathtaking scenery. The longest zipline is over 800 feet of about this behemoth, primitive redwood). steel cable suspended over a graceful creek. This exhilarating experience culminates with a rappel back down to the canopy floor. Sonoma Canopy Tours Sonoma Canopy Tours’ staff of experienced, well-trained tour Open year-round guides keep safety top-of-mind at all times. You’ll be harnessed, Reservations are required helmeted and taken through “ground school” training on zipline basics – such as how to start and stop correctly, as well as safety 6250 Bohemian Highway precautions – before you embark on the adventure. Not to worry Occidental, CA 95465 – each guest will get to practice from a platform on the ground – 30 minutes west of Santa Rosa then progress through the course as they gain confidence and get 1-888-494-7868 comfortable. Two guides accompany each group, one at the front www.sonomacanopytours.com and one at the rear, to help along the way. The experience is rounded out by the guides, acting as eco- Email: [email protected] tour docents, educating guests about the redwood forest habitat – unique only to Northern California – a vital and rewarding Follow on Facebook part of each tour. By Denise Olliffe and Twitter

$10 off Helmet Cam Rentals (with this coupon). www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 5 The Wine Carriage From May through November, The Wine Carriage is a fun, intimate excursion through select vineyards How to prepare of the Alexander Valley in Sonoma County. Owner Dress casual and comfortable for a day on The Wine Carriage. and well-informed tour guide Bret LeRolland, is The service provides all the necessities – spring water, lunch, coachman of a shade-top carriage pulled by mighty coolers to accommodate purchases. The carriage has a shaded canopy (however you may want to bring a hat and wear draft horses – meandering between rows of vines and sunscreen), and springs for a more comfortable ride, as well as up and down scenic countryside – while guests pluck padded seats. grapes right from their seats. This is no ordinary tour – it’s an off-road, insider’s Cost and Discounts trek (and the only horse-drawn carriage tour in Wine Tours are $175 per person. There are discounts for larger groups Country). The outings begin at 11 a.m., starting with of eight to 12 passengers, and exclusive tours are arranged. a visit to Alexander Valley Vineyards where guests Guests receive a ten percent discount on all purchases at the are taken to the underground, arched wine cavern wineries visited. filled with the aroma of aging wine in oak barrels, and treated to samples straight from the cask. Then, guests About the horses board the carriage for a cross-country excursion to Cody and Cheyenne, two stately blonde draft horses (now in Hanna Winery, which boasts commanding views of their second season with The Wine Carriage), and Duke and the entire valley. Pepper, two regal black Percherons (with the company for 10 After a wine tasting at Hanna, a decadent gourmet years), pull the carriage for guests. lunch is served outside in the shade of a majestic oak. Fresh baguettes, herbed meats, local artisan A Fun Fact The enormous, powerful steeds weigh-in around one ton each, and imported cheeses, mixed organic olives and and at their rumps, stand taller than an average adult. organic strawberries are served – topped off by wine-filled chocolate truffles for dessert. Wine can be purchased by the bottle or glass at the winery, to The Wine Carriage enjoy with lunch. After lunch, guests are taken on 8644 Highway 128, Healdsburg an adventurous, scenic journey across the valley to a final tasting at the award-winning Soda Rock Winery. (707) 849-8989 | www.TheWineCarriage.com By Denise Olliffe Look for them on Facebook!

Book now and receive a bonus wine tasting voucher for White Oak Winery.

6 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Getaway Adventures Ride the Wine Trail to the wine country’s small family-owned wineries, following the back roads and country lanes of Napa Fun Facts Valley and Sonoma County! Getaway Adventures was founded in 1991 and has Our Sip n Cycle is the quintessential day trip, taking in sun served over 10,000 guests. It is the oldest continually soaked landscapes, dotted with vines wineries and farms. You’ll owned bike tour operator in the Wine Country, discover the best of this area with Getaway Adventures top-rated serving both Napa and Sonoma Counties guides, sharing their secret spots and treating you like long lost friends. Every tour comes with our sumptuous Wine Country Did you Know? Picnic, prepared at selected wineries chosen for their country Getaway adventures specialized in group, corporate charm and great views. outings up to 200 people. Team building, R & R, Velo n Vino. A cyclist dream ride! We do a spirited 20 to incentive, whatever your reason we love groups and do over 40 a year. 40 miles in the morning, then put our road bikes away, take off We now do Electric Bike tours in the Santa Rosa area. our cleats and ride around by van to the taste wine after a great Top rated on trip advisor our guides are the best in morning ride. the business! If kayaking is your idea of adventure, come paddle the Russian River with us! We take you on one of five stretches, from Don’t Miss. Cloverdale to Jenner, each with a unique perspective. Choose Bike and Safari Tour. You bike in the morning to area either single or double kayaks, all geared at the energetic beginner. wineries, then mingle with giraffes in the afternoon. Fully guided, again our great lunch and plenty of swim breaks and Go to our website, check out other great tours photo ops. A great family trip, you can even bring your dog! like the Sip N Cycle, Pedal n Paddle, Velo n Vino, Hike tours take us in the giant redwood forest, with towering Farm Fresh Bike Tour and lots lots more 300+ feet trees. Then walk along the amazing Sonoma Coast with incomparable views then top it off with some Champagne. Great Getaway Adventures way to really see the best of the best this area has to offer with our local guides. Wine Country Bike Tours Hidden Winery Van Tours. Come explore the area’s smaller, Specializing in bike, kayak and hiking tours boutique wineries with our custom-designed van tours, in air- in the Napa and Sonoma Wine Country conditioned, 15-passenger vans that take you to some really cool wineries. Meet the owners and winemakers and taste world-class (707) 568-3040 | 1-800-499-2453 wines. Submitted getawayadventures.com

Like us on FACEBOOK and receive either a T-shirt or $15 off per person. Must mention this Promo code WCTW 1 with booking www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 7 Wine Country Cyclery Wine Country Cyclery offers the perfect way to truly capture the grandeur of the Sonoma Valley. Why hassle Fun Facts • Wine Country Cyclery boasts the youngest rental fleet with traffic when you can leisurely pedal to some of the of comfort hybrid bikes, replacing them yearly. Their valley’s most celebrated tasting rooms. Wine Country high-end road bikes are continuously maintained for visitors who simply fly by the vineyards at fifty miles top performance. per hour are missing out on the very best aspects of the • Already a cycling pro? Bring your own pedals, shoes, experience. The aroma of the grapes, the warmth of the even your saddle – a certified fitter will personally sun and sound of gentle breezes rustling through the size you to your rental bike. If you’re coming from far vines are best enjoyed at a much more relaxed pace. The away, ship your bike to Wine Country Cyclery...they’ll put it together and have it waiting for you. When knowledgeable staff at Wine Country Cyclery will gladly you’re ready to leave, they’ll pack it carefully for a safe help you plan an unforgettable winery tour, supplying shipment back. you with maps and tasting room coupons. • Don’t own your own equipment? They have a The shop is conveniently located just off the plaza selection of helmets, locks and pedals such as in downtown Sonoma and offers a wide range of bikes Shimano, Look and SpeedPlay. for every skill level and age of cyclist. Their fleet of Packing a picnic? road bikes features some of the very best, including Wine Country Cyclery has bike trailers that can hold all Cannondale EVOs and Trek Madones. They also have of your goodies, as well as your wine purchases along helmets and pedals. If you are planning on bringing your the way! own bicycle to the wine country, Wine Country Cyclery Make it a family trip! has experienced mechanics available seven days a week Wine Country Cyclery has Tag-a-Long bikes that allow kids to do last minute adjustments or make quick repairs. to enjoy the ride, too, as well as bike trailers that can seat two small children. And, to finish off your day of adventure and sunshine, Wine Country Cyclery can arrange for you to Wine Country Cyclery savor a “lite bite” food and wine pairing at Roche Family Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Winery tasting room. With award-winning wines and the scrumptious offerings of the Sunflower Caffe, you’ll enjoy 262 W Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 the perfect ending to your trip on their patio, gathered (707) 996-6800 around the firepit, wine glass in hand. They even offer winecountrycyclery.com extended hours for late arrivals. Follow Wine Country Cyclery on Facebook!

8 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Destiny Wine Tours I’ll tell you – the owner, Ray Hanson, is a real character and he’s passionate about what he does. He loves talking LITTLE KNOWN FACT Destiny Wine Tours was founded in 2009 and Ray’s wife with all kinds of people – young people, older people, people is credited with choosing the name for the company from all around the world, etc. One could say that Ray is a (great name, by the way!). real “people person.” He told me, “I meet my passengers as clients, and they leave as friends. I want to adopt them and FUN FACT take them home with me.” Next thing you know, Ray will Owner/Driver Ray Hanson says “after driving a big fire truck for all those years, driving my limo is like own a bed & breakfast to accommodate all of his adoptees! driving a sports car!” Not to worry, though, Ray is a true Ray is also a firefighter, so if some sort of unfortunate professional and pilots his limo with great care. incident happened to occur during your adventure, he would know exactly how to handle it. If by chance Ray isn’t PLAN AHEAD your driver, his other drivers have all been through rigorous At this point, Destiny Wine Tours has only one limo in their fleet (but they’ll be adding more soon), so make training to provide exemplary (and safe) service. sure to book your trip well in advance! Along with the wine tours, Destiny safely chauffeurs clients to the airport, concerts, shopping sprees, weddings, KUDOS FOR DESTINY WINE TOURS bachelorette parties, sporting events, proms, anniversaries Five Star Rating on www.yelp.com! and just about any kind of special event imaginable. It doesn’t get any better than that! The limo (which comfortably seats eight passengers) is a spotless black 2006 Lincoln Tiffany Town Car, and it comes Destiny Wine Tours fully stocked with Champagne and other adult beverages, Tours are available seven days a week water, sodas and more. It features a state-of-the-art sound 3295 Vichy Avenue, Napa system, which will sooth your ears or rock your world, (707) 254-0442 depending on your mood. Ray just added a silver Mercedes www.destinywinetours.com Benz S500 (equally equipped) to his fleet, so now clients have another luxurious transportation option. www.facebook.com/pages/ Your car is waiting – let Destiny Wine Tours take you to Destiny-Wine-Tours your travel destination! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench twitter: @destinywinetours

Mention this story and get 20% off your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 9 Welcome to Northern SonRUSSIANoma RIVER, ALEXANDER Cou VALLEY AND DRYn CREEKty VALLEY TO TO MENDOCINO EUREKA Russian River, Alexander Valley And Dry Creek Valley COAST RIVER RD.

BROAD CROCKER Wattle Creek

Pendleton Estate

A R S U TI S RD S . IA FERRARI-CARANO’S SEASONS OF THE VINEYARD

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FRITZ WINERY R R K IV Camellia Cellars Hudson Street Wineries: Roadhouse Winery E E E R R 101 Chateau Felice • Bluenose Wines Russian River Wine Co. C

R Davis Family • Grove Street Sanglier Cellars E H Silver Oak C Downtown Wine • Owl Ridge Sapphire Hills Sbragia T Cellars CHIANTI RD. Lake U Edmeades • Sadler-Wells Seghesio Family D Vineyards Front Street Wineries: • Rocking Z Vineyard Selby Sonoma J Rickards • Camellia Cellars • Teira Skewis Frick Palmeri Locals • Davis Family J Keverson Stark at Garagiste Healdsburg Geyser Peak 128 W Meeker • Sapphire Hill JCB Tasting Room Stephen & Walker ALL Pedroncelli FERRARI-CARANO ING Route 128 Mercury • Holdredge Kendall-Jackson Thirty Four North Wine Merchant N Winery Terroirs • Skewis Wines La Crema Thumbprint O Kachina Y N DeLorimier Hauck Cellars Longboard Vineyards Toad Hollow DUTCHER CROSSING A C Hawley Tasting Room & Gallery Manzanita Creek Topel David Ca aro Trione Vineyards Gustafson Family Yoakim Bridge Talty FORCHINI Holdredge Murphy-Goode Waterfront Tasting Room: Vineyards & Winery Bella Optima • J. Keverson Chateau FAMILY WINERIES Clos Du Bois Draxton Pezzi King • Christie Preston STEWART’S POINT Diana KOKOMO Portalupi • Hart’s Desire Zichichi TO TRUETT TRATTORE Trentadue Ramey Wine Cellars Williamson G Amphora E Y MENDOCINO HURST S YOAKIM BRIDGE Pech Papapietro Perry E SOUVERAIN R GEYSER’SRED WINERYRobert Young COAST Merle Peterson V I L

Göpfrich D L Raymond Burr Francis Ford E R Martorana Y R Stryker Sonoma D C Rued Coppola Unti R . Quivira E E LYTTON K PINE FLAT R STATION RD. Hawkes D Teldeschi Passalacqua . RD. Michel-Schlumberger Mounts VAL. Stonestreet . DER W RD GE Mauritson Ridge/Lytton XAN I EK BERT BRID LE Medlock Ames Sausal NE CRE M Springs A LA Amista Jordan Stuhlmuller A. Rafanelli Mazzocco White Oak Simi DRY Soda Rock Alexander Valley Vineyards Lambert Bridge CREEK HEALDSBURG Johnson's W Alexander Hanna . Vineyard of Pasterick D Wilson R Valley Wines Y Manzanita Montemaggiore C Creek R E E K R Grove Street D Field Stone . STEPHEN & WALKER Michael Bernard Saini Everett Ridge KINLEY DaVero LANCASTER ESTATE 128 MacPhail Family Vérité/Archipel MAGNOLIA CHRISTOPHER Mill Creek CREEK ALDERBROOK Foppiano Limerick Lane Starlite ARMIDA Christie Vineyards DE LA MONTANYA Acorn LIMERICKMietz

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D R S John Tyler Wines C E K E D O by Bacigalupi R W D O O . . Merriam R CHALK HILL Vineyard Notables O N B D L STARR RD D

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L UPTick FRAUGHT Dom Rochioli WINDSOR RIVER RD E. Whitney NT AV ASA Arista Gracianna PLE

Williams Selyem STARR RD O SHILO RD. L Mueller D R Armstrong Thomas George Estates E D Porter Creek Copain W O Woods O 101 D H W Y Sonoma County . Gary Farrell AIRPORT BLVD Airport FULTON RD Moshin

Kendall-Jackson .

D KORBEL

R Wine Center

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O MARK WEST SPRINGS

G Old World Winery

N Russian Hill

O Eric Kent

R Estate Novy T S RD. Colagrossi R M VE Robert Rue

SLUSSER I

R R Carol Shelton Siduri FOUNTAIN GROVE PKWY. A COFFEY

Woodenhead Martinelli Vinoteca Tara Bella Joseph Swan STEELE LN.

MARTIN OLIVET Harvest Moon PINER RD. CLEVELAND AVE Hartford Pellegrini MARTINELLI Family TO Winery RAY Battaglini . W. OLIVET BODEGA RIVER RD. D HOOK & LADDER R Emtu MIRABEL RD. L

BAY L Suncé Inman Family Estate I

E LAGUNA RD. LAGUNA

MAIN ST. Monte Rio N I GUERNEVILLE RD. 116 V DeLoach Russian River Martini & Pratti D’ARGENZIO Iron Horse Sheldon/Krutz River Road ANCIENT OAKS CELLARS Dehlinger inside Corrick’s Sebastopol Vineyards RAILROAD Marimar Torres Graton Ridge SQUARE 4th ST FULTON RD 4th ST Dutton-Goldeld . GRATON RD. RD TO Red Car EI Lynmar FR Balletto LOST CANYON CELLARS OF SONOMA BOHEMIAN HWY 3rd ST OCCIDENTAL RD. Emeritus Merry Hanna STATION 1870 MONTGOMERY SONOMA VALLEY D&L Carinalli Edwards OCCIDENTAL RD. Freeman Taft Street Winery MILL STA. Peters Family & Occidental Road Cellars 12 SEBASTOPOL AVENUE WATER TROUGH WATER 101 TO Claypool Cellars HWY. 1 TO Joseph Phelps TO GOLD SANTA ROSA/ HWY. 101 SAN FRANCISCO RIDGE Littorai Wines BURNSIDE Dry Creek Valley Dry Creek wine country is one of the smallest enclosed Russian River, Alexander Valley And Dry Creek Valley American Viticultural Areas in the nation, only 16 miles long and two miles wide. With 9,300 acres of vineyard along this beautiful valley’s 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. Don’t 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 opera- Celebrate the colors of spring/summer in the beautiful gardens at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery. tion 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 TO Better to (707) 431-7200, www.DryCreekOliveCompany.com MENDOCINO TO Rooted in traditions as rich as the Dry Creek Soil, Dry COAST EUREKA schedule two Creek Olive Oil Company is your destination for artisan, Cloverdale Day Trips very fine, extra-virgin olive oils. when visiting PICNIC FARE Dry Creek FRITZ RU A S

Oakville Grocery, 124 Matheson Street, Healdsburg ST SI

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R “Little Country Store” with overflowing shelves and a E wineries! H 101 C T U deli chock full of handmade, gourmet picnic items, D the Oakville Grocery is an absolute MUST. Lake CH Hope Merrill/ IA Sonoma NTI R Hope Bosworth Dry Creek General Store D House (707) 433-4171, 3495 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg 128 WALLIN FERRARI-CARANO N RD So much more than just a corner store, established in G YO N A 1881, this is also a full-service deli and beer garden with C Lake live music occassionally, spectacular views and a wealth TO Sonoma DUTCHER CROSSING FORCHINI of information on wine tasting, tours and even fishing! COAST Hatchery KOKOMO

STEWART’S POINT GE TRATTORE FAMILY

BRID TRUETTTTT FAMILY WINERIES Lodging R U HURST OF DRY CREEK S YOAKIM G S E I D A Grape Leaf Inn Y R Dry Creek Olive Oil S N Y E R C R I R V V I E 539 Johnson Street, Healdsburg E L E R K L E R W A D . . V (707) 433-8140, www.grapeleafinn.com D E RY . C RE EK Dry Creek A picturesque Queen Anne Victorian bed and breakfast, R D RD. Driving Time: 12 minutes . General TTO VAL. E LY N SPRINGS NDER the Grape Leaf Inn seamlessly blends modern decor RT RIDG EXA BE B Store AL From Fritz Underground Winery AM with timeless antiques. Gracious staff provide the best to Ferrari-Carano >2 miles L hospitality in this relaxing, romantic environment. to Dutcher Crossing >1 miles DRY CREEK to Forchini 3.5 miles VINEYARD to Truett Hurst >1 miles Hope Merrill & Hope Bosworth B&B to Family Wineries >1 miles 21253 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville to Kokomo Winery 0 miles to Trattore Family 0 miles (707) 857-3356, www.hope-inns.com to Dry Creek Vineyards 1.5 miles Once an early stage-coach stop, these now two strikingly Total 8+ miles restored Queen Anne Craftsman homes welcome you with open arms. Truly where wine and romance intertwine! 128 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 11 Fritz Underground Winery Fritz Underground Winery is a wonderful place with fantastic wines, friendly, informative staff and unusual (think Special Tours & Tastings hobbit house-meets spaceship) architecture. Oh, and the Underground cave tours are available views from the patio are stunning, too! Saturdays and Sundays by appointment. Built in the late 1970s by namesake, Mr. Jay Arthur Fritz, the winery was way ahead of its time. It was built with Wines Produced Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, sustainability in mind – the three-level winery was built Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Zinfandel into the side of a hill, which naturally controls the interior and Late Harvest Zinfandel. temperatures. This three level construction also allows the winemaker to craft great wines with gravity flow, thus Fun Fact eliminating the need for using pumps to move the wines. Not Wildlife abounds around the winery – using pumps equals using less electricity and results in wines sharp-eyed visitors may catch sight of wild turkeys, without harsh tannins. quail, deer and other local denizens of the woods. Now run by Jay’s son, Clayton, the winery is still dedicated to sustainability and producing excellent wines. Plan Ahead The tasting room staff is happy to discuss the history of Bring a picnic to enjoy on the patio the winery, the methods of sustainable winemaking used at with your delicious Fritz wine. Fritz and a myriad of other topics. The tasting room is bright and airy, with big glass doors Fritz Underground Winery and windows to let in the sunshine. A mirror spans one wall, Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. enhancing the airy feel. A woodstove sits against one wall, creating a cozy, warm ambience on cool, rainy days. 24691 Dutcher Creek Road Let’s talk about the wines – I tasted a handful of wines (Just off Dry Creek Road) during my visit and I loved every single one of them! Don’’t Cloverdale, CA 95425 miss the dry Estate Rosé and the Estate Reserve Zin – they’re www.fritzwinery.com • 1-800-418-9463 knockouts! [email protected] This place is really worth visiting! The wines are great, the building is unique, the picnic area is picturesque and the staff Facebook: is fabulous! Tell ’em “the Wine Wench sent me.” www.facebook.com/fritzwinery By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Twitter: @fritzwinery

Mention ‘Day Trips’ for Complimentary Tasting for 2

12 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Seasons of the Seasons Vineyard in Healdsburg

VINEYARDS Ferrari-Carano in Dry Creek Valley in Dry Creek Ferrari-Carano Ferrari-Carano & WINERY Inside Villa Fiore, the magnificent Italian-style villa that serves as Ferrari-Carano’s hospitality Did you know... center in Dry Creek Valley, guests will find a world Ferrari-Carano has a tasting bar and boutique in Healdsburg? of tasting opportunities. On the main floor wine “Seasons of the Vineyard” features wines from Ferrari-Carano and Lazy Creek Vineyards… fantastic Anderson Valley Pinot Noir! shop and tasting room, guests may taste many new releases of Ferrari-Carano’s Classic Wines, in Special Tours and Private Tastings addition to select wines, which are only available at Winery tours are free and by appointment, Monday through the winery. Take your wine and browse the shop’s Saturday, 10 a.m. Or, try the ultimate-fun private tastings by appointment, six days a week, 11 a.m. or 2:30 p.m., price varies. selection of wine country gifts and souvenirs, Call (707) 433-6700 or email [email protected]. including wine and cookbooks, housewares, apparel and home décor. What to taste Downstairs in the cellar, the luxurious Enoteca For Classic Wines, try Pinot Grigio, Fumé Blanc, Chardonnay, Bella Luce (aromatic white blend), Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet offers guests Ferrari-Carano’s Limited Release and Sauvignon and Siena. Limited Release and Reserve Wines are Reserve Wines. Try a flight of lovely Russian River available in the Enoteca: Vineyard Select Chardonnays, Pinot Noir, Valley Chardonnays, or compare the two delicious Cabernet Sauvignon, Trésor, PreVail West Face, PreVail Back Forty, PreVail Cabernet Sauvignons that hail from the and two dessert wines, Eldorado Gold and Eldorado Noir. winery’s two mountain ranches in Alexander Valley. Guests are welcome to stroll the enclosed garden, which has a meandering path and foot bridges along Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery a rippling stream that empty into fish-filled ponds. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The garden has more than 2,000 species of trees and 8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg shrubs, all marked with informative identification www.ferrari-carano.com tags, including some of the few successfully growing For Tours and Private Tastings, call (707) 433-6700 Portuguese cork trees in the area. Art lovers will also find bronze sculptures from world-renowned artists Seasons of the Vineyard such as Dennis Smith, Douglas Van Howd and Jane Open Wednesday - Sunday 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. DeDecker throughout the gardens. 113 Plaza Street, Healdsburg • (707) 431-2222 By Michelle J. Baker Look for them on Facebook and Twitter!

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

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 13 Dutcher Crossing Dutcher Crossing Winery has everything a wine-loving visitor could hope for – delicious, reasonably priced PLAN AHEAD wines, a beautiful tasting room staffed with friendly and The picnic area is lovely and its views of the knowledgeable employees, a gorgeous picnic area with Dry Creek Valley are breathtaking. There are stunning views of Dry Creek Valley and a winery dog to six picnic tables under a wisteria-covered arbor. welcome you. The colorful, fragrant landscaping and manicured Let’s start outside – you pull into the parking lot and lawns will make you want to kick off your shoes notice the beautiful landscaping surrounding the brown, and stay a while. barn-like building that is the winery and tasting room. A VARIETALS flagstone path leads you through a riot of colorful flowers Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Syrah, to a breezeway that separates the winery from the tasting Petite Sirah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Port room. Glass doors provide a view into the barrel room and winery. Most likely, you’ll be greeted by Dutchess, a sweet, ANOTHER FUN FACT tail-wagging yellow Labrador Retriever, owned by Dutcher Winemaker, Kerry Damskey is known as Crossing Winery’s Proprietor, Debra Mathy. “the Indiana Jones of the wine world.” The tasting room is large, bright and airy, with high LITTLE KNOWN FACT ceilings, glossy wood floors and tasteful décor. A vintage Dutcher Crossing’s self-appointed greeter and high-wheeled bicycle (used as the winery’s logo) sits against mascot Dutchess is a rescue dog. Owner, Debra Mathy a wall, beckoning to be ridden (well, I was tempted to try transported her all the way back from Taiwan! to ride it, but I restrained myself). A selection of non-wine items is available for browsing as you sip and stroll around Dutcher Crossing Winery the room. During the week, there is a $5 tasting fee (waived for Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. wine club members) to sample a variety of six wines, and on 8533 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg weekends a $10 reserve tasting is available as well. www.dutchercrossingwinery.com Winemaker Kerry Damskey does a wonderful job crafting these wines! I tasted a few wines during my visit and they (707) 431-2700 were all excellent! Look for Dutcher Crossing on Facebook. Taste some great wines, pet a friendly dog, relax and stay a 15% off Visa Signature cardholders while! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench + complimentary tasting

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

14 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Forchini Vineyards & Winery Just north of Healdsburg, a few miles out Dry Creek Road is a very special place, where you’ll feel like part of the family. Fun Facts Turn at the Bacchus sign, drive up the narrow, winding, • Forchini Vineyards has been growing rosemary-edged driveway and you’ve arrived at Forchini premium varietal wine grapes since 1971. • There are two properties – the 67-acre Vineyards & Winery. • Dry Creek Bench and the 24-acre Russian Forchini Vineyards & Winery is a family-run winery that River Terrace. produces only estate grown and bottled wines. Jim and Anita • There’s a lovely outdoor tasting garden Forchini are the owners and Andrew Forchini is the vineyard surrounded by vineyards manager. • Some of their Zinfandel vines are more than The building, surrounding picnic area and vineyards look 100 years old! as if they are right out of an Italian landscape – stucco walls, tile roofs, splashing fountains, flower gardens and vineyard- Varietals Produced striped hills delight the senses. Just wait until you taste the Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, wines – then your senses will be delighted even further! Chardonnay and Bordeaux and Tuscan Style Red Blends Once inside the main building, you feel as if you are in someone’s comfortable home. There is a large dining room, with a table ready to serve eight, a fully appointed kitchen, an Forchini office and the tasting room, which is decorated in warm tones, Vineyards & Winery with faux-painted walls, wood flooring and a granite-topped Open for Tasting from oak bar. Behind the bar, a portrait of Bacchus, the God of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday-Sunday wine, is the central focus of the tasting room. and by appointment The wines at Forchini are very, very good – they are 5141 Dry Creek Road continually garnering medals and accolades. For example, Healdsburg, CA 95448 their 2008 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir recently scored 94 points/Highly Recommended/Chairman’s Award Finalist at the (707) 431-8886 2012 Ultimate Wine Challenge in New York. www.forchini.com You really should visit this beautiful, comfortable, delicious Facebook: winery! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench www.facebook.com/forchiniwinery

Mention Day Trips and receive 2 for 1 tasting and 10% discount . www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 15 Truett Hurst Winery Set in the heart of Dry Creek Valley is a special estate called Truett Hurst. As you drive in, the sheep and goat Varietals Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Pinot Noir pasture is the first indication that this is not in any way your average winery. Vineyards are flanked by habitat islands for Plan Ahead birds and beneficial insects, and there are bluebird and owl On most Saturdays they have live music from some boxes. Maintaining biodiversity and habitat are part of the fine local musicians who deliver everything from a farming philosophy here. Their commitment to responsible jazz-swing vibe to a third-world groove to Americana and some classic tunes from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. stewardship of this property is matched by the passion with There may even be something from the grill to munch which they handcraft award-winning Zinfandel, Petite Sirah on while you take it all in. and Pinot Noir. The wines are made by fermenting grapes in small, open- Special Tasting top stain fermenters. The grapes are punched down during Tell them in the tasting room that Luci the black goat sent you and you can taste the special Zinfandel that’s fermentation, rather than pumped over, allowing for gentle named after her. extraction of color and flavor components, while avoiding bitter tannins. Then wines are barrel aged in approximately Fun Fact 30% new French oak, until the flavors and structure of the • Relax and drink your wine in one of wine perfectly balance. The result: big, bold, textured wines Adirondack chairs down by the creek! • A 60-year-old olive grove, a four-acre chef’s garden with lots of spice and jammy fruit. and the beautiful Dry Creek (which, by the way, You can savor these wines in one of the most comfortable is never dry) are all part of the estate. and relaxing wineries in the valley. You have a choice of Adirondack chairs down by the creek where you may see Truett Hurst Winery Steelhead or Coho salmon. Or hang out on the patio and Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily listen to music while enjoying the sublime scenery of Dry Creek, or enjoy a picnic or a slow lunch in the olive grove. 5610 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg If this is not enough, you’ll always be served by the friendly (707) 433-9545 • www.truetthurst.com wine pourers who will make you feel right at home in this Follow Truett Hurst Winery inviting tasting room. on Facebook and Twitter.

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

16 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Family Wineries Interested in visiting with some winemakers in person? Stop by at Family Wineries in Dry Creek Valley, where most weekends Six family wineries in one tasting room you’ll find one or two of the winemaker/owners behind the bar, • Collier Falls Vineyards ready to pour wine and answer all of your wine questions. In • Dashe Cellars fact, Family Wineries is the only local cooperative tasting room • Forth Vineyards fully owned by its member wineries. • Lago di Merlo Vineyards and Winery A visit to Family Wineries of Dry Creek Valley is just like • Mietz Cellars making six stops at six different boutique, award-winning • Philip Staley Vineyards wineries without all the extra driving, map untangling and time. Varietals It’s the perfect place to stop to satisfy the wine preferences of Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, everyone in your group - the red wine person, the white wine Chocolate Port, Dessert Wines, Grenache, Moscato, person, and even the sweet wine person! That’s right, Family Petite Sirah, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Primitivo, Red Wineries has a separate sweet wine tasting menu featuring treats Blends, Rose, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, ranging from Moscato to Chocolate Port. On the regular list, Viognier, White Blends, White Port and Zinfandel there’s always at least 20 wines available for tasting, including interesting and hard-to-find wines like Sangiovese, Rosé, Fun Fact Grenache, Viognier, Tempranillo and much more. Family Wineries is the only true small winery Family Wineries is also a great place to stock up on gifts and cooperative tasting room in Sonoma County owned by souvenirs to bring back home. The tasting room is loaded with its member wineries. fun, unique wine-related accessories, housewares, books, puzzles and food products ranging from barbecue sauces to mustards Family Wineries and marinades (many of which are available to sample). of Dry Creek Valley And don’t forget to bring along a few sandwiches so you can take advantage of the picnic grounds just a few paces from the Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. tasting room. The picnic area is neatly landscaped and offers a 4791 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg magnificent view across the floor of Dry Creek Valley. Adjacent to the picnic area is a Bocce court available for use by customers 1-888-433-6555 ext. 1 of Family Wineries (call ahead to reserve the court on weekends). www.familywines.com By Michelle Baker www.facebook.com/FamilyWineriesDryCreek

Mention Day Trips article and receive complimentary tasting with purchase of wine and 15% off purchase of six or more bottles. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 17 Kokomo Winery A tip for the wise wine taster – do NOT stroll into Kokomo Winery’s tasting room singing that PLAN AHEAD Beach Boy’s song. You know, the one that goes Enjoy a truly authentic winery experience, where the tasting room and cellar come together. Here, the tasting room, located in the working “Aruba, Jamaica, oh I wanna take ya, to Bermuda, cellar, provides a completely visceral experience. Enjoy the actual Bahama…” The friendly, knowledgeable staff at sounds, smells, sights and, of course, taste of this boutique winery. Kokomo Winery has heard that one before. Several Visitors are encouraged to purchase wine and relax at one of the many times. And the winery is named after Kokomo, outside picnic tables, or grab a set of balls and play a little bocce. Indiana, where Owner/Winemaker, Erik Miller grew LITTLE KNOWN FACT up, not some fictional beach town in Brian Wilson’s Owner/Winemaker Erik Miller’s business partner in the winery head. Be cool. Restrain yourself, and you will be is Randy Peters, a fourth generation Sonoma County farmer. treated to one of the best tasting experiences in wine Randy farms world-class wine grapes in Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley and Dry Creek Valley. country. Kokomo Winery’s tasting room is part of VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, the winery, so the sights, sounds and smells of a Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Grenache Rosé working small winery are the backdrop to your visit. The overall vibe here is laid-back, casually Inspiration through Fermentation With 90+ point Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Grenache Rosé hip and genuine. The floors are utilitarian concrete, wines from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast, Kokomo Winery is the tasting bar is made of wooden planks laid cementing its place among Sonoma County’s premiere boutique across wine barrels and big stacks of wine barrels wineries by producing a wide range of varietals and doing each one as behind the bar create a warm, rustic atmosphere. well as the next! T-shirts emblazoned with “Peace, Love & Pinot” and “Inspiration Through Fermentation” are casually Kokomo Winery displayed on the barrels behind the bar. Open daily 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Owner/ Winemaker, Erik Miller, and Assistant 4791 Dry Creek Road at Winemaker, Josh Bartels, are making some fantastic Timber Crest Farms, Healdsburg wines! I tasted a few during my visit and loved every www.kokomowinery.com | 707-433-0200 wine I tasted. By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench facebook: www.facebook.com/kokomowinery

Mention this story for complimentary tasting for two adventurous souls. Tell ‘em The Wine Wench sent you!

18 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Trattore Estate Wines and Dry Creek Olive Company Even as a young boy, Tim Bucher, owner of Trattore Estate Wines and the Dry Creek Olive Oil Company, Varietals was awed by the beauty of the Dry Creek Valley. Bucher, Zinfandel, Grenache, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Mourvedre, Viognier, Roussanne and Marsanne who was born and raised on his family’s dairy farm in the neighboring Russian River Valley, would accompany his Fun Facts father to help manage the cattle they grazed in Dry Creek • Trattore (“tractor” in Italian) and Dry Creek Olive Oil and tell his father that one day, he would live in Dry Creek have a combined tasting room in Dry Creek Valley. Valley. Visitors can taste through a variety of award-winning At the same time, young Bucher was discovering his olive oils (including Mandarin Orange, Meyer Lemon fascination for tractors and all things mechanical. From the and Lime) and vinegars (including pomegranate and time he was eight years old, he would repair the tractors barrel-aged balsamic), in addition to the critically- on the family dairy farm. His entrepreneurial spirit was acclaimed wines from Trattore. born early, too - Bucher bought his first two acres of land in • Mill tours at Dry Creek Olive Company and estate Dry Creek Valley when he was just 16 years old, and began tours of Trattore Estate Wines are available by making wine when he was 17. appointment! Bucher’s mechanical aptitude and entrepreneurial spirit led him first to a graduate degree from Stanford University, then to a successful career in the Silicon Valley. But Dry Creek Valley was always calling to him. Trattore Estate Wines The Bucher family eventually returned to Dry Creek Dry Creek Olive Company Valley and in 2006 started the Dry Creek Olive Oil Open daily from 11 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Company, which quickly became a hit with locals and foodies for its estate, blended and flavored olive oils. In 4791 Dry Creek Road 2011, they launched Trattore Estate Wines, featuring Healdsburg, CA 95448 wines produced from the family’s 40-acre Dry Creek (707) 431-7200 Valley estate just up the road from the tasting room. www.trattorewines.com By Michelle J. Baker drycreekolivecompany.com

Mention Day Trips and receive $10 off a purchase of $75 or more of wine and olive oil. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 19 Dry Creek Vineyard A visit to the Dry Creek Valley would not be complete without a visit to Dry Creek Vineyard, where a pioneering Fun FactS • Did you know that Dry Creek Vineyard was the young entrepreneur named Dave Stare helped put the Dry first winery in California to put the term “meritage” Creek Valley on the world wine map nearly 40 years ago. (meaning “merit” of the vineyard combined with When Dave arrived in Dry Creek Valley, the land “heritage” of the vine) on a wine label? surrounding him was planted primarily to hops and prunes. • Dave and his winery, Dry Creek Vineyard, have But Dave saw the great potential in planting the same grape established many “firsts” on the way to becoming one varietals that made world class wines in the Loire Valley of of Dry Creek Valley’s shining stars. In fact, Dry Creek Vineyard was the first new winery in the Dry Creek France, where Dave had traveled extensively and found much Valley after prohibition. They were also the first to inspiration. And so he planted Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon produce a Fumé Blanc in Sonoma County; the first to Blanc, a variety he was told would never grow in the Dry use the Dry Creek Valley appellation on a wine label; Creek Valley. and the first to champion Zinfandel as a world-class Today, Dry Creek Vineyard still produces Chenin Blanc varietal. and Sauvignon Blanc, plus a whole lot more. What’s great • Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch or grab a sandwich to-go on the way, as Dry Creek Vineyard has a about their lineup is that you’ll find both great value wines sprawling and shady picnic area for guests where you for everyday drinking, and some amazing treasures to stash can enjoy a bottle of wine with your lunch and free away in the cellar or open on weekends, holidays and other WiFi, too! special occasions. What to Taste In the tasting room you’re likely to find wide selection of Chenin Blanc, Fume Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, wines available to sample, including the kind of old vine and Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, dessert wines and more... single-vineyard Zinfandels Dry Creek Valley is best known for. For those who love a big red wine, Dry Creek Vineyard Dry Creek Vineyard makes a pair of phenomenal red blends. The Meritage is a Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. deep, dark and concentrated Bordeaux-style blend that is 3770 Lambert Bridge Road, Healdsburg a steal at $30 retail; and The Mariner ($45), which is even www.drycreekvineyard.com more powerful and particularly ageworthy. 1-800-864-9463 By Michelle J. Baker Follow on Facebook and Twitter

Mention this article and receive a complimentary tasting for 2 and 10% off any wine purchase.

20 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com South of Healdsburg Wine tasting just south of downtown Healdsburg, on the east or west side of Highway 101, you’ll Russian River Valley Produce instantly feel miles away. Westside Road is slow and winding, filled with redwood trees, heritage 400 Grapevine Lane, Healdsburg, (707) 433-7933 oaks with moss beards and famous vineyards. Wineries on the east side of Highway 101 specialize A four-acre, family-owned ranchwith top-notch vegeta- in Pinots, cool-climate Syrahs and that famous Zinfandel. Here, some of the finest winemaking and bles, fruits, herbs and flowers sure to brighten any palate culinary talents in all of Northern California are represented. Should you wish to slow down and and table. Excellent farm tours by appointment. experience wine country up-close-and-personal, just south of Healdsburg is the place to go. Riverfront Regional Park 7821 Eastside Road, Healdsburg, (707) 565-2041 Th ings to Do DaVero, 766 Westside Road, Healdsburg Once an old quarry, Riverfront Regional Park is Dragonfly, 425 Westside Road, Healdsburg (707) 431-8000, www.DaVero.com now home to two sparkling lakes perfect for swimming (707) 433-3739, www.dragonflyfloral.com Guided tastings of wines, olive oils and or hike a trail through serene redwood groves! By appointment only, this is a unique jams — as well as fresh produce. It’s also Powell’s Sweet Shoppe botany and flower-lover’s destination. a great spot for a picnic, or just to wander 322 Center St., Healdsburg They can custom pick and arrange flowers. the field. Check the website for hands-on (707) 431-2784, www.powelsss.com cooking clases. Wohler Bridge An old time, old fashioned candy, ice cream and sweets 9765 Wohler Road, Forestville Mill Street Antiques shop sure to delight your child within! This is the first A true Sonoma County landmark, shop for Powell’s now beloved franchise. Wohler Bridge is one of the few 44 Mill Street, Healdsburg, (707) 433-8409 old-old-OLD bridges left in California. Take the time to seek out the treasures here – Lodging This steel truss bridge crosses the there’s sure to be something for everyone! Madrona Manor Russian River at quite a beautiful spot, too. 35 Dealers in 10,000 sq. ft. 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg

R U S 1-800-258-4003, www.MadronaManor.com S IA N A world-class destination for guests seeking gracious RI VE W R . service and luxurious accommodations in the heart of D R Y HEALDSBURG AVE C wine country. Oh yes... “Rated #1 in Napa & Sonoma” R E E Shoffeitt’s K by Travel & Leisure... Need we say more? R D. Off the Square Madrona Dragonfly 128 Farmhouse Inn Manor KINLEY Mill Street Antiques 7871 River Road, Forestville DaVero Farms (707) 887-3300, www. FarmhouseInn.com MAGNOLIA CHRISTOPHER ALDERBROOK CREEK Representing the finest level of Sonoma inns, restaurants and Spas, sublime guestrooms, farm-fresh food, and seasonal body treatments come together for one DE LA LIMERICK MUTT LYNCH MONTANYA unforgettable experience.

R Country Garden Lodging, Healdsburg

ARMIDA L

L ARATA L

RODNEY I O

W S (707) 431-8630, www.hcountrygardens.com

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L A E L S STRONG D M

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S E G I D C Three fully-equipped, affordable vacation homes located D BROOKS W O E S O 101 R O D D on a 25-acre wine country estate boasting spectacular- . H W Y . gardens. Near charming downtown Healdsburg.

HEMBREE

LAKEWOOD DINING Driving Time: 16 minutes WINDSOR RIVER RD From De La Montanya Farmhouse Inn Restaurant to Armida Winery >1 mile PLEASANT 7871 River Road, Forestville to Alderbrook 2 miles (707) 887-3300, www.farmhouseinn.com to Christopher Creek 3 miles O SHILO RD. L D

to Mutt Lynch 0 miles R E Tucked into one of the smallest, lovely towns in wine D W to Rodney Strong >2 miles O O country, the Farmhouse Inn boasts an exquisite Total 7.5 miles D H W Y restaurant. Each plate by Chef Litke tells the story of . D Sonoma County R AIRPORT BLVD E D Sonoma’s diverse agriculture and artisan producers. Wohler SI ST Airport EA Bridge W Giorgi’s Restaurant G O R H U L B E S R D 25 Grant Street, Healdsburg, (707) 433-1106 R L

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Farmhouse PINER RD. Gilardi’s Delicatessen Inn 810 Den Beste, Windsor, (707) 838-9869 LAGUNA LAGUNA Certainly a vine above the rest! Feast on homemade MIRABEL RD. lasagna and freshly baked sourdough garlic breads. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 21 De La Montanya Estate Vineyards De La Montanya Estate Vineyards was established in 1995 with the planting of the Home Ranch in the heart of VARIETALS the Russian River Valley. Eight years later, in the summer Merlot, Red Blend, Late Harvest, Tempranillo, Viognier, of 2003, owners Tina and Dennis De La Montanya opened Gerwürztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, the winery and tasting room just five minutes from Cabernet Sauvignon and Primitivo downtown Healdsburg. CHECK OUT At present, De La Montanya has a total of 270 acres of The latest PinUp Collector’s Edition No. 7 includes the vineyards planted throughout Sonoma and Lake counties. 2009 Cabaret and 2009 Desire. Tastefully photographed The appellations include Sonoma Coast, Russian River in the winery and embodying the high spirited lust for life Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley and Red Hills in found in Wine Country, the PinUp wines have become a Lake County, and from these vineyards De La Montanya cult favorite. Each year, our female wine club members has been known to make up to 18 different wines, ranging of all ages take their chances in a random drawing to in size from one barrel (24 cases) to 15 barrels (350 cases), be featured on the PinUp label. The PinUp wines are truly specializing in small-lot winemaking. available only at the tasting room. The tasting room and winery at De La Montanya Vineyards is known affectionately as “The Barn,” which STAY A WHILE is located among the Felta Creek vineyard and apple The Little Yellow Cottage in the middle of Felta Creek orchard. The Barn is where guests experience wine the Vineyards, just a short walk from the tasting room, is way it was intended to be, with good friends and family in a two bedroom cottage, a private and cozy retreat for a welcoming, fun and beautiful environment. Just outside one or two couples. The cottage is equipped with a full the tasting room is an outdoor kitchen complete with modern kitchen and dining area plus a redwood deck a pizza oven, a gorgeous garden picnic area and even a with spa and much more. The ultimate Wine Country bocce court. get-away. De La Montanya Estate wines are only available to wine club members and through the tasting room. De La Montanya Estate Vineyards “While the wine business can be very serious, we strive Open daily from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to make it a fun experience for our guests and wine club members,” says Dennis De La Montanya. “We like to have 999 Foreman Lane, Healdsburg, CA 95448 a connection between all of us at the winery and our Westside Road to Felta Road, left under the bridge guests, which is what keeps them coming back each year.” …hard to find, but worth the effort By Mike Hyland (707) 433-3711 | www.dlmwine.com

Mention this article and receive a special taste of the De La Montanya Whitesnake Zinfandel.

22 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Armida Winery Tucked away on Healdsburg’s Westside Road, one of wine country’s best leisure drives, is where you’ll find Armida Winery Fun Fact estate. Not your typical winery, it’s a hidden gem along a rolling Armida recently won Double Gold and Best of hillside, where the views are equally as impressive as the wines Class at the 2012 Sonoma County Harvest Fair for being served. The estate is a patchwork of vineyards, trees and their 2011 Russian River Valley Chardonnay hills – a casual place to hang out with good people, good friends, Bocce anyone? and good wine. Bring a picnic and take a break from wine tasting A local favorite, Armida Winery pours awesome wine at with a game of bocce beside the pond (especially reasonable prices, in a kick-back atmosphere. Whether you’re fun after a few glasses of wine). an experienced wine connoisseur or a newbie, you’ll feel right at home when visiting. If you’re visiting Capitola… At the peak of the rambling, scenic entrance to Armida Winery, Don’t miss Armida’s cozy, intimate tasting room you’ll be met with a “pop” of architecture at the top of the drive, in Capitola Village! Located just a stone’s throw in the form of an unusually dome-shaped tasting facility. Even the from the ocean, it is surrounded by award- parking lot is a destination, with sweeping views of rolling hills, winning restaurants, artisan shops and art vineyards, and the valley. You may never leave your car! galleries. Start your visit in the tasting room to sample Chardonnay, Special Events Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Sirah, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Armida hosts lively events at the winery Zinfandel and Armida’s estate blend – Il Campo. There, you’ll get throughout the year, including participating in hands-on education of the wines being served, with a few jokes Passport to Dry Creek Valley weekend, Wine Road and laughs thrown in. Don’t be shy – if you’re a newbie taster, be events, release parties and more. Check their sure to say so! These folks want you to find a wine that zings your website for dates. palate, and have fun doing it. After you’ve chosen a bottle of their best wine, relax on the Armida Winery expansive deck overlooking the serene pond and fountain area. Bring a picnic, because there are plenty of tables for guests. You Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. can also score cheese and other snacks for purchase in the tasting 2201 Westside Road, Healdsburg room to pair with your new favorite vino. (707) 433-2222 Before you leave, be sure to ask about Armida Winery’s wine clubs … you will receive members-only discounts on wines www.armida.com shipped right to your door! By Denise Olliffe Facebook & Twitter

Bring in this story for 2-for-1 tasting. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 23 Alderbrook Winery When you visit this pretty winery in the rural area not far from the town of Healdsburg, you can remember the sincere Varietals Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Syrah, words of their tasting room manager: “We’re laid back, so Carignane, Zinfandel and Zinfandel Port come on in, try our wines and feel free to stay a while.” Dates Since 1981, when the winery was founded, Alderbrook While the winery was founded in 1981, it was in 2001 has been offering a variety of wines that now have a legion of that the famous Terlato Family Vineyards took over the property and led it to the prominence it now enjoys. In faithful followers. The setting is tranquil, with white fences, fact, some of the wines, such as the Block 9 Syrah and the a 60-acre estate vineyard and a farmhouse-like tasting room Chardonnay, have the Terlato name on the label. with white bleached-wood walls, wood floors, a high ceiling Fun Facts and a fireplace at one end of the casual, comfortable room. • Complimentary Pedicab service to and from the winery Though the property is just minutes from Highway 101 to the Healdsburg Plaza, just call the tasting room to arrange for pickup. (which makes it about an hour from the Golden Gate), it is a • Live music every Sunday from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. world apart. There’s a spacious porch in the front, and a long • Dogs are very welcome at Alderbrook. Come in for deck in the back facing a large lawn. If you care to picnic, feel a button that says, “We ♥ Dogs @ Alderbrook.” free, enjoying you meal or snack with a glass or a bottle from Other Tastings their collection of wines. They will even loan you glassware There is a self-serve bar where you can sample mustards, oils, vinegars , chocolate and caramel sauces. as you pair one of their Zinfandels, the Chardonnay, a Pinot Private events Noir or a Syrah with your picnic. Contact the winery for information on hosting your Inside, at the two L-shaped tasting bars, with their own event at this scenic winery. polished wood tops, you’ll learn about what it means to have a winery and grapes sourced from two of the most Alderbrook Winery famous regions in all of Sonoma: Dry Creek and the Russian Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2306 Magnolia Drive, Healdsburg River Valleys. And, to learn this, you will be able to taste the (707) 433-5987 or 1-800-405-5987 difference and the triumphs in your glass. Can you imagine www.alderbrook.com of a better way to learn? By Charles Neave Look for Alderbrook Winery on Facebook & Twitter

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24 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Christopher Creek Winery A small, family-owned winery, Christopher Creek, in the heart of the Russian River Valley, has a long history of RELAX Guests are always welcome to enjoy a glass of producing award-winning, estate-bottled, wines. Located on wine poolside, or bring a picnic lunch to enjoy the Limerick Lane in Healdsburg, the winery and tasting room is patio overlooking the rolling vineyards, creek and situated on 11 acres in the Russian River AVA with another surrounding vistas. 27 acres planted on Bradford Mountain in the Dry Creek VIP Treatment appellation. Call ahead for a VIP tour and tasting with owners/ The first vines were planted more than 50 years ago with winemakers. the winery opening shortly thereafter in 1974. Those first VARIETALS vines are still producing exceptional wines and may still be In addition to their noteworthy Petite Sirah, Syrah and Cabernet Franc, additional wines in the portfolio enjoyed in the warm and rustic tasting room as Reserve Petite include Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Sirah and Reserve Syrah. Chardonnay, Viognier, Port and Petite Sirah Port. With a growing interest in Rhône style wines, Christopher MORE AWARDS Creek offers the opportunity to taste wines produced from The latest in a long line of award-winning wines include old vines of Russian River Valley, where the climate is cooler, “Best in Show” and “Sweepstakes Award” for the 2008 including some of the best Syrah, Petite Sirah and Pinot Noir Petite Sirah at the Riverside (California) International Wine Competition. At the same event, the 2008 Dry in the area. Creek Zinfandel also won a unanimous gold medal and Coming on board recently is winemaker Mike Brunson, the “Chairman’s Award.” The Cab Franc recently received a third-generation Sonoma County resident with more Double Gold, Best of Cass at the 2012 Harvest Fair. than 20 years of vineyard and winery experience. Prior to joining Christopher Creek, Mike was winemaker and Christopher Creek Winery vineyard manager at Michel-Schlumberger for 16 years. He 641 Limerick Lane, Healdsburg, CA 95448 has produced award-winning wines from Pinot Blanc to Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cabernet Sauvignon and brings passion, experience and a (707) 433-2001 workingman’s knowledge of how to go from grape to glass. www.christophercreek.com By Mike Hyland Look for Christopher Creek Winery on Facebook

Mention ‘Day Trips’ for 2 for 1 estate tasting. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 25 Mutt Lynch Winery Located just south of Healdsburg on lovely Limerick Lane is a very special place – a place of delicious, world-class wines, VARIETALS PRODUCED rustic, totally unpretentious surroundings, friendly folks and Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Primitivo, wagging tails. If you are an animal lover like me, you simply Syrah, Zinfandel, Chardonnnay and Sauvignon must visit Mutt Lynch. Blanc The whole atmosphere at Mutt Lynch is one of delicious fun, with a bit of mischief thrown in. The wines are seriously good, FUN FACT but the folks at Mutt Lynch don’t take themselves too seriously. Mutt Lynch donates a portion of annual revenues There’s not an ounce of pretension here, folks! to support local animal rescue organizations, The building that houses the winery and its tasting room is including Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, Sonoma an old, ivy-covered barn, complete with huge sliding doors in Humane Society, Green Dog Rescue Project and front. Once inside, there’s no doubt that you’re inside a winery PAWS/Petchitecture. – stacks of barrels and t-bins, along with shiny stainless steel fermentation tanks line one long wall. The Mutt Lynch tasting room, so to speak, is located in a Mutt Lynch Winery corner of the winery. The tasting bar is a couple of wooden Open daily by appointment planks set atop two upended wine barrels. Cute, dog-themed Wednesday – Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. t-shirts are displayed on the wall and more than likely, there will be a cute, tail-wagging dog or three to supervise your tasting 602 Limerick Lane, Healdsburg experience with Mutt Lynch’s friendly, knowledgeable staff. www.muttlynchwinery.com At Mutt Lynch they measure success in two ways: by the number of charities they help and the number of awards they (707) 942-6180 garner for their winemaking. In the past 12 months, Mutt Lynch Follow Mutt Lynch Winery has assisted more than 80 animal organizations. The winery was also recently named the 2013 San Francisco Chronicle Facebook: Wine Competition’s Label Sweepstake and Best of Class/Series www.facebook.com/MuttLynchWinery for its “mbf” (Man’s Best Friend) series of wine – the second Twitter: @muttlynchwinery consecutive year they have the won this prestigious award! Be sure to visit this unforgettable place and tell them Yelp: www.yelp.com/biz/ The Wine Wench sent you! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench mutt-lynch-winery-healdsburg

Free tasting and logo glass with mention of this ad!

26 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Rodney Strong Vineyards There are few places in wine country more memorable than “The Green” – a luxurious expanse of softly rolling lawn Good to Know The winery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and that surrounds center stage at Rodney Strong Vineyards. It guided winery tours are offered daily at 11 a.m. and represents the perfect spot from which to savor the marvelous 3 p.m. They feature both complimentary and paid wines the winery offers, not to mention it’s a great place to tastings. enjoy fresh, local artisan picnic fare and revel in the beautiful Sonoma County sun. Summer Concert series Amazing wines, breathtaking views and concerts Rodney Strong was a trailblazer in the Russian River with contemporary artists – there’s no better way Appellation who recognized this area as an ideal grape- to enjoy a Sonoma County summer than at Rodney growing region. He realized the soil, climate and topography Strong’s annual Summer Concert Series presented in here combined in a way to produce the conditions necessary association with Omega Events. Surrounded by acres of beautiful vineyards, guests enjoy top performers to make world-class wines. All of the Rodney Strong wines while picnicking at the winery’s intimate concert come from grapes grown exclusively in Sonoma County’s venue, “The Green”. finest appellations: Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, Chalk Hill and Sonoma Coast. He was also one of the first to Fun Fact plant Pinot Noir in the Russian River Valley and the first to Depending on the season, you can witness vines being pruned, the sugar-testing of grapes or receive a crash produce and release a Chalk Hill Chardonnay. course on evaluating wines right out of the barrel. Currently available for tasting is their luscious Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, Rodney Strong Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon and Symmetry, a red meritage wine. Open Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Since 1989, the Klein family, who has been involved in 11455 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg California agriculture for four generations, has privately owned the winery. Their passion for sustainable farming For more information, call (707) 431-1533 practices, solar power and other green business practices led or visit www.rodneystrong.com. them to become Sonoma County’s first carbon neutral winery. Ronda Giangreco

2 for 1 Estate Wine Tasting – good through September 2013 with this ad. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 27 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.

Things to Do Getaway Adventures Bosworth & Son General Store Powell’s Sweet Shoppe Santa Rosa, (707) 568-3040 21060 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville 322 Center St., Healdsburg www.getawayadventures.com (707) 857-3463, www.bosworthandson.com (707) 431-2784, www.powelsss.com Healdsburg Sip ‘n Cycle: Visit the sites and Once a mortuary and even a buggy store – the buggy An old time, old fashioned candy, ice learn local wine facts throughout downtown paint still stains the floor – Bosworth & Son General cream and sweets shop sure to delight your Healdsburg and into the vineyards on this Store is an old-fashioned store meeting the Western- child within! This is the first shop for innovative, healthy tour! Tours include a inspired needs of today’s customer. Powell’s now beloved franchise. picnic and bocce. Healdsburg Ridge Hiking Trail Raven Theater Sonoma County Wine Library Entry gate at Arabian Way and Bridle Path. 115 North Street, Healdsburg 139 Piper Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-6335, www.raventheater.org (707) 433-3772 One of Sonoma’s favorite nature preserves, take the Ridge Hiking Trail to the Fox Pond Run and Fox Pond Over- Entertainment that is beyond a moment’s www.sonomalibrary.org/wine look. A wonderful place to get some fresh air and exercise blip of distraction. Enjoy wonderful perfor- The library has more than 5,000 books in wine country! (No pets.) mances and expand your world. dealing with all aspects of making wine, Wine Carriage some of them date even back to 1512! (707) 849-8989, www.thewinecarriage.com Knowledgeable librarians are on hand to LodginG Exclusive 5-mile route through the help guide you. vineyards, premium wine tastings at Veterans Memorial Beach, Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza three award-winning boutique wineries, 13839 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg 112 Matheson Street, Healdsburg sumptuous gourmet lunch, exclusive wine (707) 433-1625 (707) 433-6991, www.healsburginn.com cave tour, barrel tasting Truly one of Healdsburg’s most favorite Built in 1901, this classic California inn is located on Segway Tours riverside beaches! Bring a picnic, kick off the Healdsburg Plaza. From summer concerts to holiday (707) 953-3477 your shoes, or even borrow an inner tube. tree lightings, the town’s best events take place right here. www.segwayofhealdsburg.com Nothing to do here but relax, breathe deeply Hotel Healdsburg and listen to the river roll on by. A fun way to tour Healdsburg. 25 Matheson Street, Healdsburg 1-800-889-7188, www.hotelhealdsburg.com Chic, beautifully appointed Hotel Healdsburg is located

ALEXANDER VALLEY RD on the historic square and is one of the premier Wine 128 Country luxury lodgings in all Sonoma County. 101 Grape Leaf Inn

CHALK HILL RD 539 Johnson Street, Healdsburg HEALDSBURG AVE. Raven Theater NORTH ST (707) 433-8140, www.grapeleafinn.com NORTH ST Zin Restaurant LANCASTER Campo A picturesque Queen Anne Victorian bed and breakfast, Fina Seasons ESTATE of the the Grape Leaf Inn seamlessly blends modern decor with Erickson Scopa Vineyard PLAZA ST Fine Art Gallery POWELL’S SWEET SHOPPE timeless antiques. Gracious staff provide the best hospi- PLAZA ST tality in this relaxing, romantic environment. Dry Creek Kitchen Plaza Historic Homes MATHESON Walking Tours Options Gallery Belle de Jour Inn MATHESON Hotel Healdsburg FITCH ST Healdsburg Inn 16276 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg on the Plaza EAST ST CENTER (707) 431-9777, www.belledujourinn.com STEPHEN & WALKER A single-story Italiante built in the 1870s on six acres of hilltop overlooking rolling hilltops and valleys. HAYDON MILL Hope Merril & Hope Bosworth B&B Driving Time: 28 minutes 21253 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville From Chalk Hill (707) 857-3356, www.hope-inns.com to Lancaster 5 miles to Stephen & Walker 11 miles Once an early stage-coach stop, these now two strikingly Total 16 miles CHALK HILL restored Queen Anne Craftsman homes welcome you with CHALK HILL RD ESTATE open arms. Truly where wine and romance intertwine!

28 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

to Alexander Valley

HEALDSBURG PLAZA • www.Healdsburg.com

Geyserville Inn Campo Fina Scopa 21714 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville 330 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg 109 A Plaza St. (on Healdsburg Plaza), Healdsburg (707) 857-4343, www.GeyservilleInn.com (707) 395-4640, www.campo-fina.com (707) 433-5282, www.scopahealdsburg.com First class accomodations at more affordable New hot spot in Healdsburg – wine, beer, Rustic Italian fare, a local favorite prices in the heart of wine country! wood-fired pizza and outdoor bocce! Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar Food Hoffman House Restaurant 344 Center Street, Healdsburg Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen 21712 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville Reservations recommended, (707) 473-0946 Hotel Healdsburg, 317 Healdsburg Avenue (707) 857-3264 Dinner served daily, lunch Monday-Fridays (707) 431-0330, www.charliepalmer.com www.hoffmanhousegeyserville.com Zin features delicious seasonal cuisine Celebrating Sonoma’s pioneering wines and spir- Built more than 100 years ago, this cafe serves with produce grown especially for them. its, celebrated Chef Charlie Palmer takes the best healthy breakfast and lunch with striking Wine industry locals often gather here for of our farm-fresh produce and culinary cradle views of the majestic mountains. Seasonal din- nourishment and “shop talk.” and infuses it with his passion and style. ners, call first. Jimtown Store 6706 Highway 128, Healdsburg (707) 433-1212, www.jimtown.com Like us on Facebook! Literally tucked into the vineyards in the Jim- town store. For more than 100 years, Jimtown has provided Healdsburg with fresh baked goods, hot coffee, and local products. Linger over the eclectic American antiques and old-fashioned toys. Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria 21021 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville a Mention (707) 814-0111, www.diavolapizzeria.com A great stop for picnic items such as house-cured Day Trips for salumi and olives plus traditional Italian cook- ComplimentaTruffle! ry ing including gourmet pizzas and delicicious pastas. Diavola uses the most locally available ingredients combined with centuries old recipes. Mention Day Trips for a Complimentary Truffle! https://www.facebook.com/pages/Powells-Sweet-Shoppe-Healdsburg/98179042663 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 29 Chalk Hill Estate Perhaps no other winery captures the casual luxury of Sonoma County better than Chalk Hill Estate. Founded nearly four decades SPECIAL TOURS AND TASTINGS ago, this spectacular property features 1,300 acres of wilderness • Private tasting: $15 per person, daily areas interspersed with 300 acres of vineyards, winery, hospitality • Estate tour: $30 per person, center, culinary garden, residence, stables, equestrian pavilion, Monday through Friday, includes tasting sports fields, fishing and swimming ponds, and guest houses. • Reserve Tasting: $50 per person, by appointment. From the top of the Estate visitors can enjoy stunning views of Includes a tasting of limited production wines. the Russian River Valley to the west and the Mayacamas Mountains • Culinary Lunch Tour: $85 per person, call for dates; to the east. includes estate tour, culinary garden tour and private The property features 13 soil types ranging from ancient alluvial food & wine pairings by Chef Didier Ageorges deposits to young volcanic soils strewn with rocks and boulders. • Estate Trail Rides on Horseback: $100 A distinctive layer of volcanic ash lies under much of the topsoil inspiring the name “Chalk Hill.” The complex soils and climate PLAN AHEAD allow Chalk Hill Estate to produce great wines from a wide range A “regular” wine tasting takes 30-45 minutes, the estate of grape varieties. tour takes about 1½ hours and the culinary tour takes The winery’s vineyards are thoughtfully woven through the about 2½ hours. native foliage and contoured to fit the intricate terrain. The vines LITTLE KNOWN FACT are farmed using low-input, sustainable viticultural practices to All wines produced by Chalk Hill Estate preserve the long-term viability of the ecosystem. Vineyards & Winery are 100% estate grown. 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 Chalk Hill Estate history, viticulture and winemaking practices at the property. The Vineyards & Winery Culinary Lunch Tour examines the organic gardens and vineyards. The organically farmed produce is the inspiration for Chef Didier Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ageorges’ culinary artistry. The tour includes a sit-down tasting 10300 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg of estate wines paired with Didier’s menu of several small plates in the Pavilion – an extraordinary conservatory overlooking the www.chalkhill.com equestrian center. For tours and reservation, call (707) 657-4837 For equestrians, there are the Estate Vineyard Trail Rides or go to www.vinovisit.com on horseback. Guests begin their journey at the magnificent Equestiran Center and ride through the vineyards with respected Friend them on Facebook polo professional, Rafael Hernandez. or follow them on Twitter!

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

Mention Code: SCDAYTRIPS for a two-for-one tour & tasting. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 31 Stephen & Walker Winery There’s nothing quite as exalting as making a wine discovery – limited-production, terroir-driven wines, each with a provenance VARIETALS worthy of the 90+ scores achieved by their wonderfully personable Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, winemaker. These are the wines shared with the best of friends and Pinot Noir, Carignane, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Canelli, gracing their dinner party tables! Late Harvest Chardonnay and a very special Port In the six years since Stephen & Walker opened their doors just called, rather cleverly, ‘Portentous’ off Healdsburg Square, they have been heartily embraced by both the locals and wine country visitors, and most definitely by the wine A NICE TOUCH aficionados. Nancy Walker, the winemaker and co-proprietor with You can expect to sample a small bite with your flight. her husband Tony Stephen, crafts some of the loveliest wines from appellations she holds close to her heart. GOOD TO KNOW With a portfolio of lauded wines, what’s next for Nancy and Unlike most tasting rooms, they stay open until 7 p.m., Tony? They are currently celebrating the new Home Ranch Winery which means you can drop by for a guided tasting and at 1500 Groove Street in Healdsburg. Also, join them for a privately then head out to dinner. guided barrel tasting with their winemaker, Nancy Walker. Don’t miss upcoming special events such as March weekend barrel tastings and PLAN AHEAD Since these are rare wines you’ll seldom find elsewhere, the Dry Creek Passport in April where they will serve pizza and small leave some room in your suitcase (or have them shipped). bites from the onsite wood-fired oven. The Home Ranch Winery will offer wedding facilities, beautiful gardens and culinary and educational seminars that bring in some of Stephen & Walker Tasting Room the best names in wine country cuisine. Blending seminars and artisan Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily cheese pairings provide for an interesting offsite meeting or wedding 243 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, (707) 431-8749 shower or the perfect gift! “Being a winemaker and gardener, I’m naturally excited about Stephen & Walker Home Ranch Winery developing our new vineyard, olive orchard, lavender and herb gardens, and as we’re growing everything sustainably, our chicken Open by appointment tractor also adds a fun element! Our pizzas have always been such a 1500 Grove St, Healdsburg, (707) 331-8480 hit at our prior events, so we’re installing our outdoor pizza oven, and www.trustwine.com onsite catering will provide the fresh, local and seasonal wine country cuisine,” says Nancy. Bookings now being accepted for events. www.facebook.com/stephenandwalker Contact Nancy at [email protected]. Twitter: @stephandwalker

Recent wins: DOUBLE GOLD – 2006 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, DOUBLE GOLD – 2010 Late Harvest Chardonnay and GOLD – 2010 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir.

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

O LD R E Sonoma County D Armstrong Redwoods W O Airport O AIRPORT BLVD D Safari West H W Pacific Coast Air Museum Y .

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R RIV FOUNTAIN GROVE PKWY. A Vintners Inn SLUSSER STEELE LN. PINER RD. Charles Schultz DrivingTO Time: 24 minutes HOOK & Fountain Grove Inn MARTIN W. OLIVET Museum

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BOHEMIAN HWY OCCIDENTAL RD. TO SONOMA VALLEY TO 12 Freestone Vineyards TO HWY. 1 TO SAN FRANCISCO Guest Center HWY. 101 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 33 Korbel Champagne Cellars Just the drive to this winery, not far from the Sonoma Coast, brings back the history of the early days of Varietals winemaking in Northern California. It fluctuates from wild to California Champagne (15 varieties), Chardonnay, cultivated as the topography changes along with the climate. Edelzwicker (white blend), Cabernet Sauvignon, Korbel, an iconic name in wine country, has been making Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Sherry, Port, Brandy (3 varieties) California méthode champenoise champagnes for more Tours than 130 years. One of the oldest wineries in California, it is Tasting and tours offered daily, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. set along the Russian River in Sonoma County, where they Call ahead for group tours, (707) 824-7708 pride themselves by producing award-winning California Garden Tour Hours champagne using only the finest premium California-grown The Garden Tour is offered daily at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, from the middle of April varietals. through the first part of October. In the mid-1800s, this country offered possibilities to three brothers seeking to escape political unrest in their Deli Hours Enjoy this popular option daily, at the same time as the European homeland. Francis, Anton and Joseph Korbel tasting room is open. It is like one-stop-shopping with found success in exchange for enduring hard work and great wine in a historic setting. innovation. Fun Fact F. Korbel & Bros. began as a manufacturing business in More than 250 varieties of roses are planted in front of San Francisco, producing materials for the building industry. the circa-1882 Korbel family house. Many antique rose As that business expanded, the brothers eventually acquired varietals have been re-established in the garden and a sawmill and began a full-scale lumber operation near the are budding up for a spectacular display. town of Guerneville in Sonoma County. Plan Ahead This all grew into what is now a premier California The winery has many special events so check their champagne enterprise, where French methods were used website often for more information. to make the premium California champagne they became famous for. Korbel Champagne Cellars A visit to this historic winery is a trip back in time, and Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily also a visit to the future. The grounds are beautiful, the 13250 River Road, Guerneville tasting room lively yet harkens one back to the hallowed past. The people are well-versed in it all, and a visit is not (707) 824-7000 | www.korbel.com just about today, it also recognizes a very special history that Follow Korbel on Facebook & Twitter should not be forgotten. By Charles Neave Celebrate responsibly.

Mention this story for 20% off all California Champagne and Wine (excludes Brandy and merchandise).

34 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Martin Ray Winery Martin Ray Winery is an ambitious amalgam of labels and wines, all housed in one of Sonoma County’s most historic Varietals wineries. Founder/Proprietor Courtney Benham is a third- Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Rosé, Merlot, generation San Joaquin Valley winemaker who knew he wanted to Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel some day own a winery himself. In 1990, he discovered a treasure On the Vine trove of old library wines with the label of Martin Ray, a Santa The longer “hang time” (the time a grape cluster remains Cruz Mountains winemaker. Courtney bought the rights to the on the vine) that the mountainside vineyards allow means Martin Ray name and in 2003 purchased the historic Martini- riper, richer fruit. You can find the result right there in your Prati Winery in western Sonoma County; now home to the glass of Martin Ray, Angeline and Courtney Benham wine. Martin Ray line of wines. Fun Fact One common thread between Courtney and Martin Ray is Martin Ray Winery is one of the oldest historical winery the firm belief that vineyard location is crucial to character and sites in the Golden State (California), so take your time quality of the wine. There is a special emphasis on mountain- and wander through the historic property. grown wines, a conviction that mountain-side elevation provides cooler nights during the growing season which result in superb Plan Ahead fruit ripeness. Diamond Mountain in Napa Valley, Sonoma Allow extra time for a tour (by appointment only) of the Mountain in Sonoma County and the Santa Cruz Mountains to historic production facilities, as well as extensive tasting. the south are three of the most prestigious vineyard locations for The scenic drive to Martin Ray Winery on winding roads is Martin Ray grapes. a fascinating combination of forests and vineyards. You’ll Wines available include fruit-forward, picnic-friendly Angeline know you’ve reached the winery when you see the large water tower that dominates the skyline. wines, Martin Ray wines that have elegant structure and vineyard character, the vineyard designated reserve wines and Courtney Benham wines that are limited-production offerings from some of Martin Ray Winery California’s most interesting wine regions. At the winery, picnic tables and chairs outside the tasting room Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily overlook verdant hills and vineyards. Lush, colorful landscape 2191 Laguna Road, Santa Rosa and flowers surround the tasting room. The friendly and (707) 823-2404 knowledgeable tasting room staff can suggest interesting wines to www.martinraywinery.com taste side-by-side, so visitors can compare a Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma Mountain with one from Alexander Valley. It’s not Look for them on Facebook only a great educational experience - it’s also lots of fun! and become a Fan!

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

Mention this story for one complimentary tasting.

36 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Hook & Ladder Winery Located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, Olivet Road has been home to the De Loach family for 35 years. Medal Time Hook & Ladder hit gold at the San Francisco Chronicle Cecil De Loach was a firefighter in San Francisco for 16 Wine Competition with Merlot, Zinfandel, Third Alarm years and in 1970, he and his wife Christine bought their Reserve Pinot Noir and Chardonnay each receiving gold. first 24-acre vineyard in Sonoma County and started second careers as winegrowers. Five years later they made their first The Land wine and they went on to build one of the country’s most On 375 acres situated in Russian River Valley, the successful, popular and iconic wine brands. Hook & Ladder vineyards produce cool climate grapes widely recognized as some of the finest in the world. In 2003, with the De Loach Vineyards brand – one of the biggest in the country, the De Loach family decided to start Fun Facts over. They sold their eponymous winery and concentrated on • Look for the shiny red Willy’s vintage fire truck near Hook & Ladder, which they’d started 20 years earlier with a the driveway. Port. In 2004, they opened Hook & Ladder on Olivet Road • With a new bocce ball court and picnic grounds, Hook & Ladder is an ideal mid-day stop. on the first property the family purchased, next to the historic Barbieri Ranch. For Gourmets Cecil retired from firefighting in 1982, but there are The long, cool growing season here yields hand-picked lots of firefighter themes at Hook & Ladder, including fire olives with the intense, ripe flavors for their extra-virgin department patches and t-shirts from visiting firefighters olive oil. Made from mature Mission trees, the stone- decorating the tasting room. Now, three generations of the crushed cold press master blend produces a richly flavored and beautifully colored oil. De Loach family keep Hook & Ladder to just 35,000-case annually. Hook & Ladder Winery and Vineyards As part of their philosophy of “keeping it simple to help Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily keep prices down,” the informal and friendly tasting room 2134 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa occupies a part of the winery itself. As to the wine? Medals, loyal followers and enthusiastic newcomers to the wines are (707) 526-2255 further proof that the De Loaches are still making great wine www.hookandladderwinery.com after all these years. Look for them on Facebook and become a Fan!

Complimentary wine tasting...and public service (fire/police, etc.) get a 20% discount. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 37 Santa Rosa Downtown is the heart of Santa Rosa where entertainment, shopping, wine tasting and restaurants keep visitors’ itineraries full. Tasting opportunities in downtown Santa Rosa include a new urban winery village called Vintners’ Square that is home to several small, boutique – but full-production wineries with tasting rooms – including D’Argenzio Winery. Nearby, the historic Railroad Square has an authentic old town ambiance and is a favorite place to pass time, socialize and savor the wine country experience with antique shops, fine dining, local arts/entertainment and, of course, wine tasting. For more information on vacationing in Santa Rosa, go to www.visitsantarosa.com.

Dining Ca’Bianca ATTRACTIONS Petite Syrah 835 Second Street, Santa Rosa Luther Burbank Home & Gardens 205 Fifth Street, Santa Rosa (707) 542-5800, cabianca.com 204 Santa Rosa Avenue, Santa Rosa (707) 568-4002, www.petitesyrah.com Meaning “white house” in Italian, (707) 524-5445, www.lutherburbank.org A highly regarded small bistro with a Ca’Bianca is located in a stunning white Self-guided tours of the famed horticulturist’s home, small plate menu and reasonably priced Victorian in downtown Santa Rosa. Their greenhouse, garden and carriage house – a registered na- entrees. menu is a blend of multiple regions of tional, state and city historic landmark. The stunning Italy. landscaped grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk. Jack and Tony’s Restaurant and Whisky Bar 115 4th Street, Santa Rosa La Gare Wednesday Night Market TO TO (707) 526-4347, jackandtonys.comHEALDSBURG 208 Wilson Street CALISTOGA May through September KENDALL-JACKSON GEYSERVILLE Modern AmericanWINE CENTER Regional cooking and Beef Wellington, Rack of Lamb,PARADISE Chateau- RIDGESonoma County’s premier farmers market and street fair D OA R WINERY . an extensive Sonoma County wine list. briand BouquetiereNGS for Two are some of the – a festival-like atmosphere for visitors and locals – SPRI R EST D MARK W The adjacent Whisky Bar shelves over dishes that La Gare has been serving for 30 S showcases Sonoma County’s finest food, produce, I

O R L R D 300 expressions of Scotch,RIVER RD.Bourbon, Irish, years and counting. Every meal includes A vendors and live entertainment, all in one location.

R E TO VINTNER'S E

D American and Japanese whiskies ranging the soup du jour and salad. K GUERNEVILLE & D

W A V L RUSSIAN RIVER L INN O B Summer Nights | Railroad Square from $6 to well over $100 and now offering S O

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M RussianH River BrewingA Co tasting flights. Eric Kent B O A family-friendly summer street party each year on the FULTON RD. W

D Wine Cellars Y T 725 Fourth Street, SantaN Rosa

U first Friday of the month, June through September. These HOPPER AVE. E PKWY. O INGROV R TA Tex Wasabi’s Rock n’ Roll Sushi BBQ (707) 545-2337, russianriverbrewing.comFOUN warm nights are filled with wine tasting, al fresco din- Benovia 515 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa INDUSTRIAL DR Best known for its aggressively hopped ing, live music from two stages, arts and crafts booths (707) 544-8399, www.texwasabis.comInspiration Novy California-style ales, Belgian-styleNot ales to Scale and more, from 6 to 9 p.m. The event is free. Wine tast- PINER RD D AIRWAY Siduri Santa Rosa’s R celebrity chef Guy Fieri is and barrel-aged beers, this popular spot ing is available for a fee and benefits local non-profits. W O L R the visionaryA W. behind STEELE LN. Tex Wasabi’s. In wild also serves up a large variety of specialty M Fieri style, the menu is COFFEYloaded with flavors pizzas, foccacia bread, sandwiches, salads, Station 1870 conceptualized by the talented Fieri. calzones and “beer bites.” 123 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa GUERNEVILLE RD. STEELE LN. (707) 623-9619, www.station1870.com Deriving its name from the year that the first train

E pulled into the now historic Railroad Square, Station D’ARGENZIO V A Driving Time: 8 minutes O N 1870 is an essential stop for all who enjoy wine. The I From Lost Canyon Winery C O to Cellars of Sonoma 0 miles COLLEGE AVE. 101 D atmosphere within is rich and inviting – a great place to N CLEVELAND AVE. E to Ancient Oaks Winery >1 miles M to D’Argenzio Winery 1+ miles gather and to mingle. Total >2 miles COLLEGE AVE. LODGING

WILSON Hotel La Rose Petite Syrah 7th ST Russian River 12 308 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa, www.hotellarose.com CELLARS OF SONOMA Brewing Co. TO 5th ST Tex Wasabi’s LOST CANYON Hotel SONOMA A landmark property built over 100 years ago, offering Station 1870 4th ST La Rose 4th ST ANCIENT OAK Tony & Jack’s La Gare “B” ST inside Corrick’s old-world charm with modern amenities. Guests can 3rd ST Ca’Bianca opt to stay in either the main building, a 1907 stone 2nd ST

Hyatt Vineyard FARMERS LANE charmer constructed by Italian stone masons, or one of 1st ST Creek Hotel 19 rooms in the Carriage House. and Spa SONOMA AVE

SANTA ROSA AVE RAILROAD Luther Burbank Home & Gardens Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel and Spa 12 BENNETT VALLEY RD. 170 Railroad Street, www.vineyardcreek.hyatt.com TO TO Santa Rosa SEBASTOPOL ROHNERT PARK Fairgrounds A Tuscan-inspired hotel situated along the Santa Rosa & PETALUMA Creek, sits adjacent to Railroad Square. This romantic, luxury hotel exudes relaxation.

P E E TA G LU N M A A H R IL G L RD 38 . www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Roberts . Lake E RD N ON A NY L CA CRANE

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PETALUMA S COTATI & PENNGROVE Lost Canyon Winery Lost Canyon Winery’s tasting room is housed in the newly opened Station 1870 Wine Bar in downtown Santa VARIETALS Rosa. Named for the first year the train pulled into the now Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah historic Railroad Square, this tasting room offers guests a rich and inviting atmosphere for wine flights or just to sip FUN FACTS a glass of wine at one of their outdoor tables. With a wine Their tasting room takes on a new identity at 4 p.m. with rack separating the tasting room from the wine bar, this is live music and small bites to be paired with any of their an ideal venue. The tasting room showcases Lost Canyon’s wines. They also have a flat screen TV for sports fans! Enjoy Happy Hour specials from 4 to 6 p.m. and try one small lot single-vineyard designated wines. These wines of their Prosecco cocktails! are carefully crafted from five premier Russian River Valley vineyards and highlight the individual characteristics of VISIT each vineyard year after year. All current vintages are sold The tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday by the glass or bottle and they even have limited library from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is conveniently located in verticals still available. Join their Case Club Wine Club and the historic Railroad Square in downtown Santa Rosa. receive a 25% discount on a full case of wine. Being a club Their evening wine bar Station 1870 is open Wednesday member entitles you to complimentary tasting passes at through Sunday from 4 to 10 p.m. Their current live their sister winery’s tasting rooms and all special events and music lineup features Jazz music on Thursdays, Flamenco new release parties. on Fridays and Rock ‘n Roll on Saturdays. In the evening, as the tasting room closes and the wine bar gets lively, so do the options. Find yourself seated at the Lost Canyon Winery bar or a cozy lounge while enjoying their live music. Taste Open Thursday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. wines from their sister winery Fritz Underground or their exclusively imported Italian wines. They also tempt guests Station 1870 Wine Bar with their house-made flatbreads, crostinis and gourmet Open Wednesday-Sunday 4 to 10 p.m. cheese plates using organic and locally sourced food. 123 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa, CA Looking for a great location for your next party? The in Railroad Square Lost Canyon Winery tasting room can host your special event featuring their wines, food and entertainment. Since (707) 623-9621 each event is unique, let them help you plan, cater and [email protected] manage your next get together. By Alexandra Charsley www.lostcanyonwinery.com

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

2 for 1 Food and Wine Pairing ($25pp value). Reservations required 1 to 5 p.m.

40 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Ancient Oak Cellars Co-owners and vintners Ken and Melissa Moholt- Siebert recently opened a tasting room in downtown VARIETALS Santa Rosa for their winery, which is named for the Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, ancient oak tree presiding over their family vineyard. Merlot, Pinot Noir, Rosé of Pinot, Zinfandel Conveniently located on Fourth Street, amidst FUN FACTS restaurants, shopping, art and entertainment, Ancient • Join them on Fridays for Weekly Wine Happy Hour from Oak Cellars’ new tasting room in the landmark 5 to 7 p.m. Enjoy live music while sipping a glass of your Corrick’s store presents hand-crafted wines from favorite wine! family-grown Sonoma County grapes. • New releases include some outstanding cuvées of Ken and Melissa’s vision of sustainable practices Cabernet and Merlot from their Sonoma Mountain Berger is apparent in every aspect of winemaking. Their Vineyard and a Sonoma County Rosé of Pinot. own Pinot Noir Vineyard was planted by Ken and • Their tasting counter was made by a local craftsman out his grandfather Henry on Siebert Ranch, just north of a single 27-foot slab of elm, with inset panels of hand- of Santa Rosa, where sheep graze in the winter. All carved oak. of their vineyards, located within 15 miles of Santa • To save on parking hassles, park in a downtown parking Rosa, are farmed by Ken and Melissa and the families garage and they’ll validate your parking. that live on them, with the help of dedicated vineyard VISIT workers who have worked the land for many years. The tasting room is open Monday through Saturday from That’s why Ken and Melissa use the slogan “Real Dirt 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday noon to 5 p.m. and Fridays is Real People Real Wine.” Their family vineyards, open until 7 p.m. It is located inside the landmark Corrick’s, Siebert Ranch, Pagnano Vineyard and the Cartan adjacent to their ARTrails gallery focused on local artists. family vineyard are all located in the Russian River Valley; the Warnecke Ranch is in the Alexander Valley, Ancient Oak Cellars and the Berger Vineyard is on Sonoma Mountain. Open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Their Winemaker, Kent Barthman brings decades of experience with both Bordeaux and Burgundian Sunday noon to 5p.m., Fridays until 7 p.m. varietals in premium labels. Kent was attracted to 637 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa partnering with Ken and Melissa because they have (707) 536-1546 | www.ancientoakcellars.com superior hillside vineyards with great fruit, giving him the opportunity to make some of the definitive wines [email protected] of his career. By Alexandra Charsley www.facebook.com/pages/Ancient-Oak-Cellars/

Enjoy 2 for 1 wine tasting when you mention “Day Trips” on your visit. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 41 D’Argenzio Winery Discover D’Argenzio Winery, a hidden gem located in the beautiful wine region of Sonoma County. Santa VARIETALS Rosa’s urban boutique winery and tasting room offers Pinot Noir, Tocai Friulano, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Barbera, wines from a wide array of Sonoma County appellations Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Moscato, Aglianico, as well as Italian varietals for wine lovers to sample. Sagrantino, Sauvignon Blanc Each of the D’Argenzio wines are vineyard-designate, FUN FACTS small-lot production wines of 300 cases or less. D’Argenzio produces a tribute wine to the famous Randy Owned and operated by three generations of Italian Rhoads, remembered for his work as lead guitarist and Americans working together to showcase the finest musical composer with Ozzy Osbourne and Quiet Riot, artisan wines, Ray and Ricci D’Argenzio, identical twin particularly for his complex guitar riffs on the well- recognized classic song “Crazy Train.” The Randy Rhoads brothers, continue the tradition of their artisan heritage. Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon is a one-time release At D’Argenzio Winery, take the time to play bocce created by Kathryn Rhoads D’Argenzio, dedicated with love or enjoy a picnic in their patio area while trying their and affection to honor the memory of her brother, Randy Primo Selection, a tasting flight of five wines. $10 per Rhoads. guest (fee waived with purchase of a bottle). For those SPECIAL EVENTS craving a snack, D’Argenzio offers Piccolo Morsi, small For great wine, food, music and people, come to Wine bites of antipasti and mouth-watering gelato. You can Down Thursday, every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. This weekly also take their barrel tasting and tour which includes event offers artisan wines while listening to live music and four wines straight from the barrel while having a enjoying tasty food. Wines are available to purchase by the special tour of the winery. You will learn about their glass or bottle. Reservations recommended, not required. family history, winemaking techniques and see how wine is made; $15 per guest. Last but not least, don’t miss their Chocolate and D’Argenzio Winery Wine Pairing Experience. Delight your senses by trying Open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. melt-in-your-mouth chocolates and five of their wines; $15 per guest. Santa Rosa Vintners Square D’Argenzio Winery is the perfect spot to stop and 1301 Cleveland Ave. Suite A take in a taste of Italy, where great wine, food, music Santa Rosa, CA 95401 and happy people come together to celebrate the (707) 546-2466 pleasures of life! By Monica Dashwood www.dargenziowine.com

Mention ‘Day Trips’ for 15% off bottles purchased; 25% off mixed case purchase.

42 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Welcome to sonoma valley

C O Adler Fels R R IC K TO LN SANTA ROSA

LOS AMOS RD LEDSON

DR PYTHIAN RDST. FRANCIS

OAKMONT

Landmark ANYON RD. Sugarloaf MacLeod BE C Vineyard DO TO LAWNDALE Kaz A State Park SANTA ROSA St. Anne’s Crossing CHATEAU Naked Wines MATANZAS Paradise Ridge ST. JEAN ST. J E AN R D Ty Caton & Enkidu AU CREEK ATE EN GARDE C H B Wise B KENWOOD EN N Y RD E VJB CELLARS Sable Ridge T VINEYARDS T V Mayo Reserve Room KENWOOD WINER A L Muscardini L E

. Deerfield Ranch Kunde

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RD. A Family NCH W RA Jack London ON ND State Park LO Talisman Wines Imagery ERIC ROSS Arrowood MOONDANCE CELLARS B.R. COHN Bucklin Old Hill Ranch VALLEY OF THE MOON LITTLE VINEYARDS Wine Country doesn’t get more real than Sonoma Valley, whose rich soils MADRONE Robert Hunter CAVEDALE Petroni Vineyards mark the birthplace of California’s wine industry. It’s also the closest wine re- Akoma Zoume MOON MTN gion to San Francisco, just 45 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Cradled Paint Horse Winery SONOMA PLAZA between the Mayacamas and the Sonoma Mountain ranges, Sonoma Valley AGUA CALIENTE ROAD CHARLES CREEK encompasses a rolling patchwork of vineyards, quaint farms and 13,000 BRYTER ESTATES LEDSON CENTRE DU VIN

ARNOLD DRIVE Adobe Road Roche acres of scenic parkland. In the center of town, the eight-acre Sonoma Envolve Sigh (Sparkling) Erick K James Sojourn Plaza is a National Historic Landmark, strewn with sprawling shade trees BOYES BL GlenLyon Sonoma Enoteca VD Hawkes Spann Haywood Two Amigos and bordered by carefully preserved adobe buildings. Up the road in Glen Hanzell Highway 12 Winery Walt Westwood Ellen, author and bohemian adventurer Jack London lived and wrote at his Ravenswood

VE A D pristine Beauty Ranch, now an 800-acre state historic park. R O Bartholomew Park N E . A R K N E L V C I

R 12 R The historic Sonoma Plaza lies at the heart of Sonoma Valley – gateway H A Y

E E GROVE VIN G . R D D Buena LE R LOVELL AST Y C E R Vista region to Sonoma County. Sonoma Plaza’s done it all – Mexican military ORANGE W. SPAIN ST. V ALLEY IN W RD D L THE Sebastiani O Favero outpost, fleeting frontier republic, Spanish Mission village. Now a gorgeous PLAZA

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7th ST EAST NAPA ST historic landmark and “slow” culture capitol, Sonoma Plaza radiates PETALUMA Clarbec Winery Gundlach-Bundschu romance around every corner, cafe and cobblestone. Whether you’re here for R2 DENMARK ST

WEST Wine an overnight or extended stay, Sonoma Plaza offers the picture-perfect start BROADWAY Co. Scribe

5th ST EAST 5th ST 5th NAP A ROAD 8th ST EAST

AD (and end) to your adventures. It’s a pedestrian paradise, so ditch the car R O Gofessel NI Parmelee Hill E R O TO LE V 12 Macrostie Kamen PETALUMA Tin Barn BURNDALE keys and discover Real Wine Country on foot or bicycle. The Plaza’s old adobe 12 TO CARNEROS RD NAPA 116 121 storefronts, meandering alleyways, sunlit courtyards and historic landmarks BONNESS Robledo Anaba FREMONT Homewood Family LARSON hum with an eclectic mix of restaurants, hotels, tasting rooms, cafes, artisan FAMILY Winery Bonneau Schug BONNEAU CORNERSTONE SONOMA boutiques, galleries—even a vintage movie house. As for the nature lover, Carneros Estate TO Gloria Ferrer MEADOWCROFT WINES PETALUMA Foyt Family Wines wildflower hikes and stunning hilltop vistas abound within just a short dis- Keating Wines tance. Anchoring it all is the tranquil Plaza itself, whose vast green stretches 121 Not to Scale CLINE JACUZZI of lawn and immense tree canopy create a lush setting for picnics, cultural VIANSA 101 activities and weekly farmers markets. – SonomaValley.com. Ram’s Gate TO VALLEJO 37 TO SAN FRANCISCO www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 43 Kenwood/Highway 12 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 Sonoma’s 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 “Swede’s 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 Café Citti, the Kenwood, or Doce Lunas restaurants.

Things to Do Food Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Kenwood Plaza Park Kenwood Restaurant Highway 12 & Adobe Canyon Rd, Kenwood Located on Warm Springs Road 9900 Highway 12, Kenwood, CA 95452 Hikes include views, bridges and impres- between Kenwood Depot and (707) 833-6326, www.kenwoodrestaurant.com sive waterfalls. Home of Ferguson Observa- Kenwood Community Church A favorite restaurant for local winemakers, vintners tory – largest in the western United States. This 5-acre park comes complete with a play & celebrities. Fresh ingredients, great views, structure and picnic tables. local/international wines. Kenwood Depot 314 Warm Springs Road, Kenwood Kenwood Farmhouse Café Citti (707) 833-5190, www.kenwooddepot.com 9255 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood 9049 Highway 12, Kenwood (707) 833-1212 Sonoma County Historic Landmark #46. (707) 833-2690, www.cafecitti.com Now a venue for special events, this historic Gift shop specializing in the works of local A trattoria style restaurant with landmark was once a working train sta- artisans and craftsmen. “great food, great value, great atmosphere.” tion and was built from locally cut basalt. Look for them on Facebook. Swede’s Feeds Pet Garden & Gifts Vineyards Inn Kenwood Community Church 9140 Highway 12, Kenwood 8445 Highway 12, Kenwood 9637 Channing Row, Kenwood (707) 833-5050, swedesfeedskenwood.com (707) 833-2300, www.vineyardsinn.com www.kenwoodcommunitychurch.com Gifts, garden art, unsual plants Creative, organic, authentic flavors of Spain Charming church built in 1888. and pottery. VJB Cellars 60 Shaw Avenue, corner of Hwy. 12, Kenwood Driving Time: 12 minutes (707) 833-4500, www.vjbcellars.com TO From Ledson Winery SANTA ROSA to St. Francis >1 mile Enjoying lunch of fresh panini or antipasti or a pizza to Chateau St. Jean 2 miles from the wood-fired oven. There’s also an onsite chocolate LOS AMOSLEDSON RD to En Garde Winery 1 mile and gelato shop! to VJB Cellars 0 mile

PYTHIAN RDST. FRANCIS to Kenwood Vineyards >1 mile Total 4+ miles Lodging Kenwood Inn And Spa

ON RD. CANY 10400 Highway 12, Kenwood OBE Sugarloaf Ridge TO AD SANTA ROSA 12 State Park (707) 353-6966, www.kenwoodinn.com

LAWNDALE Vineyards Inn A secluded, luxury hotel; Mediterranean-inspired private ST. JEAN RD restaurant; rated in the top three resort spas in the United Cafe Citti CHATEAUCHATEAU ST. JEAN EN GARDE States – Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Poll, April 2009. VJB CELLARS KENWOOD VINEYARDS Mayo Family Reserve Room Swede’s Feeds Kenwood Farmhouse Pets, Gardens & Gifts Park WARMDepot SPRINGS RD Church . D Kenwood Restaurant R Y E Kenwood Inn and Spa L L A V

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ERIC ROSS Yeti MOONDANCE BR COHN CELLARS LITTLE The Red Barn Store VINEYARDS at Oak Hill Farm

VALLEY OF MADRONE THE MOON CAVEDALE

MOON MTN

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D R VE E A K O IC N R A H R E VE Girl G & The Depot Museum GROVE Fig Home of General Vallejo Swiss Hotel California Ramekins LOVELL VALLEY ROAD

ORANGE SPAIN ST. Mission El Dorado Kitchen OLD WINERY THE Sebastiani Theatre CHARLES CREEK PLAZA

7th ST

4th E EAST NAPA ST WINE COUNTRYWEST NAPA ST Hopmonk BRYTER DELLA SANTINA

CYCLERY WEST Tavern DENMARK ST 5th ST 5th

BROADWAY MacArthur Place Lodge at Sonoma Traintown NAPA ROAD 8th ST EAST 12 Fremont TO LEVERONI ROAD Diner

PETALUMA BURNDALE 5th ST EAST 12 CARNEROS RD TO NAPA 116 121 FREMONT

BONNEAU

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TO SAN FRANCISCO 37 Ledson Winery & Vineyards If you want to be treated like royalty, visit Ledson Winery and Vineyards in Kenwood. The 16,000 square Winemaker Philosophy foot winery, known as “The Castle,” sits majestically “When I first started making wine for the family in 1993, my behind an estate vineyard. Steve Ledson, a fifth-generation goal was to produce a portfolio of wines with the diversity grape grower and winemaker, opened the winery in 1999, to satisfy every palate and everyone’s pocketbook.” creating one of the most unique and dynamic wineries – Steve Ledson anywhere. What Not to Miss When you arrive, a concierge will guide you over The Castle experience is unlike any other. From intricately elegant hardwood floors and through seemingly endless detailed architecture, to the breathtaking grounds, it’s corridors to one of four classy tasting bars. Ledson Winery truly a magical place. Add to that a most amazing array of produces about 80 wines from more than 20 varietals. All impeccable wines! the wines are handcrafted in small production lots and Tasting Menu many sell out before the next vintage goes to market. The Ledson Winery produces about 80 outstanding wines, with wines are sold exclusively at the winery, the Ledson Hotel too many great scores and awards to mention here! Public and online. Fortunately, Ledson offers four wine clubs to tastings are available at several beautifully appointed ensure members have access to wine before it disappears. tasting bars. Private sit-down tastings (cheese plates The grand staircase will take you upstairs, where optional) are held in one of six luxurious private suites. exquisite private tasting suites are available by reservation. You May Now Kiss the Bride Call ahead to check on availability. There is no place more romantic than The Castle. The You will also be delighted by the Gourmet Marketplace, dramatic circular driveway, arched carriage entryway, water which features a mouthwatering array of fine cheeses, fountains and the grand staircase create the perfect setting sandwiches, pastas, salads and decadent desserts. On for a storybook wedding. warm days, you can picnic beneath century-old oak trees Ledson Winery & Vineyards and take in the magnificent vineyard views while enjoying Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. your favorite Ledson wine. 7335 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood On every level, Ledson Winery succeeds in creating an Inside Corrick’s exclusive experience. If you want to sample the incredible (707) 537-3810 | www.ledson.com wine and be transported to the perfect wine country For tours & reservations, contact experience, you must visit The Castle. Check out the website at www.ledson.com, or call (707) 537-3823 to (707) 537-3823 or [email protected] make a private tasting reservation. Follow Ledson on Facebook!

Upgraded Tasting: Purchase a tasting of 6 wines and receive an upgrade to 9 wines. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 45 St. Francis Winery & Vineyards At St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, wine and food blend perfectly to reflect the beauty and charm of Sonoma Valley, Daily Wine Tasting creating an unforgettable experience for visitors. Taste critically acclaimed 100% Sonoma County The Winery’s ZAGAT-recommended multicourse wine and estate wines in the winery’s beautiful mission-style food pairing is unsurpassed in wine country, offering what tasting room daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. a local food writer described as “small plates that rival the Charcuterie on the Patio kitchen of Michelin-starred restaurants.” St. Francis Executive For a more informal wine and food paring, enjoy Chef David Bush, whose résumé includes Sonoma’s The Girl & charcuterie and wine flights on the patio or in the The Fig restaurants, masterfully pairs his creative dishes with tasting room from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $25 per person. St. Francis’ award-winning wines. The menu changes seasonally but offers an array of gourmet delicacies. Private Estate Dinners “My philosophy about wine and food pairing is that there Enjoy a memorable seven-course dinner for 8-16 are no rules,” Chef Bush says. “I like to take risks. My ultimate prepared by St. Francis’ Executive Chef. The beautiful goal is to surprise people and for them to leave with a different Mission-style Winery will be your private dining room view of how wine and food work together.” for this intimate, one-of-a-kind experience. Offered The newly renovated St. Francis dining room, with its tiled 7 days, 6:30 to 9 p.m. By appointment only, with 72 hours’ notice. $135 per person (plus tax and gratuity). fireplace and spectacular vineyard views, is the ideal setting for Reservations required by calling (707) 833-0255. Chef Bush’s break-the-rules pairings. Guests sit at a custom- designed round table, guided through each course by an Shopping for a great wine club? expert host who highlights key components and shares some AOL’s Luxist named the St. Francis Patron’s Society of the winery’s history. The experience is relaxed, friendly and “one of the best wine clubs in the U.S.” educational, showcasing the best Sonoma County has to offer. Seated pairings are held Friday-Sunday at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. There are two seatings on Mondays and Thursdays at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The cost is $42 per person. Reservations Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily are strongly recommended and can made online by visiting 100 Pythian Road, Santa Rosa www.stfranciswinery.com or by calling 1-800-794-6674. 1-888-675-WINE For a more informal wine and food paring, St. Francis offers www.stfranciswinery.com charcuterie and wine flights on the patio or inside its gorgeous Mission-style tasting room. These pairings are available daily Follow St. Francis on from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $25 per person. Facebook and Twitter!

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46 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Chateau St. Jean As patrons arrive at Chateau St. Jean they are greeted by an expansive European-inspired garden. The topiary is a true What Not to Miss spectacle which creates a defined ambiance of both grandeur The gardens stand alone as truly a spectacular sight. and sophistication. The adjacent patio allows patrons to fully The Vineyard Room tasting may be $10 more than the admire the garden even before they have had a chance to regular, but one should invest in the experience itself taste. and taste premium wines in the comfort of an outside Chateau St. Jean has two tasting room options. The main patio overlooking beautiful hills and vineyards. tasting room has one of the largest wine-related gift shops in Sonoma Valley and offers a well-balanced sampling of both Standout Wines whites and reds. The Vineyard Room, located directly across Cinq Cépages, Reserve Merlot, Reserve Chardonnay, from the main tasting room, focuses on Chateau St. Jean’s Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Fumé Blanc and for higher-end wines. the sweet wine drinker, the Gewûrztraminer Chateau St. Jean is well known in many wine circles. Total annual production consists of 32 different wines (10 One Stop Shopping of which are distributed). One of its most highly reputable Chateau St. Jean has an exquisite merchandise wines is known as the Cinq Cépages. A winner of countless section with assorted sandwiches, cheeses, olive oils, awards over the years, the Cinq Cépages is arguably the most balsamic vinegars, as well as anything one would need complex wine in Chateau St. Jean’s wine repertoire. In fact, in order to create a superb picnic experience. With grounds as beautiful as this, one can plan an for $75 per person, one can experience all of the different entire day around the bounty of Chateau St. Jean. components that go into the wine with the Cinq Cépages blending seminar. It lasts roughly one hour and the everyday wine drinker can feel like an expert as they create their own Chateau St. Jean blend and compete with other tour members in the “Best Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Blend” contest. Another option is the Promenade Tour and Tasting – a 8555 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood relaxing guided tour of the stunning estate that takes place www.chateaustjean.com daily at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. For $20 per person, an educated For tours & reservations, call host will teach you the rich history as well as the growing cycle and the fruit characteristics of several grape varieties 1-877-478-5326 while sipping on some of their finest wines. By Brendan Conroy Follow Chateau St. Jean on Facebook!

2 for 1 wine tasting in the Main Tasting Room and 15% off wine purchases with this story. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 47 En Garde Winery Csaba Szakal is a fourth generation winemaker who came to California from his native Hungary 17 years ago as a DON’T MISS computer programmer. While living in Silicon Valley, Csaba The 2007 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and began making wine in his garage as a hobby. His first vintage the 2009 Reserve Russian River Pinot Noir won him a gold medal and his continuing success inspired VARIETALS him to start En Garde Winery. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Csaba opened his Kenwood tasting room last summer and Malbec, Albarino, Tempranillo, Rose, Berry Port has been quietly blowing away his guests as well as locals PLAN AHEAD with his award-winning wines – in particular his Cabernet The Kenwood tasting room is somewhat small Sauvignon and his Pinot Noir. so if you are traveling with a group or six or more, While he does not own any vineyards, he certainly knows it is best to call ahead and make a reservation for how and where to find great fruit. His Cabernet and Cabernet tasting. Franc are sourced from Diamond Mountain in Napa, where FUN FACT his En Garde Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon won Csaba’s grandfather’s winery exclusively produced “Best in Show” at the Affairs of the Vine Cabernet Shootout. the Dry Rosé and it was never bottled. The customers He sources his fruit from only the best grape growers in brought their own demijohns and they were California and only makes varietals that he is passionate filled directly from the barrels. Csaba follows his about. grandfather’s recipe to make the same dry rosé today. His award-winning Pinot Noir, which comes from the Russian River area, as well as his Cabs from Diamond Mountain are the mainstays of his menu, Csaba also En Garde Winery enjoys creating numerous single vineyard “micro-lots” of Open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tempranillo, Albarino, Malbec, a dry rosé and a Bordeaux 9077 Sonoma Highway blend. “You can actually take a tour of California in our Kenwood, CA 95452 tasting room,” says Csaba. “In addition to the various Napa and Sonoma appellations, we also source fruit for our other (707) 282-9216 single vineyard wines from El Dorado in the Sierra foothills, www.engardewinery.com Lodi and the Alexander Valley in northwest Sonoma County. By Mike Hyland

Mention ‘Day Trips’ for a Two for One Tasting Flight

48 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com VJB Vineyards & Cellars With the opening of a new tasting room and marketplace, VJB Vineyards and Cellars has become Standout Wines a top wine and food destination by offering visitors Sangiovese is one of the best known Italian wines and once you taste VJB’s 2009 Estate Sangiovese, you’ll know why. This Sonoma Valley an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of the Sonoma grown wine is full of red, ripe fruit flavors and has soft, seductive Valley. From the wines to the architecture, the food tannins making it the perfect wine to pair with pasta and red sauce. and the hospitality, everything here is a testament VJB also produces less well-known, but equally delicious varietals like to the Belmonte family’s Italian heritage. Guests will the Sicilian grape Nero d’Avola as well as Montepulciano. The 2009 undoubtedly leave here feeling like they’ve experienced Estate Montepulciano is a medium-bodied red wine with a baked cherry nose and mellow tannins. Once you taste it, you’ll know why that unique culture. it’s a favorite of Club Enoteca members that sells out in a matter of a The stunning two-story Italian villa along the few short months Sonoma Highway in Kenwood looks like it was plucked off a Tuscan hillside and is surrounded by nearly two Stay Awhile acres of newly planted Montepulciano and Aglianico In addition to wine tasting, guests will want to spend warm spring vines, both Italian varietals that are rarely grown in and summer days lingering on VJB’s central piazza while enjoying lunch of fresh panini or antipasti from La Cucina or a pizza from the California. wood-fired oven. For dessert, there’s also an onsite chocolate and In the tasting room, guests may sample those wines gelato shop. Afterwards, visitors can browse the upstairs art gallery as well as other Italian varietals such as Tocai Friulano, or the marketplace for estate-grown olive oil, owner and Executive Primitivo and VJB’s flagship wine called Dante – a Chef Maria Belmonte’s homemade tomato sauces and pestos, plus blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese – made in a wide range of the very best imported Italian pantry items to enjoy at home. On weekends, the daily 1 p.m. performance by the Sonoma the tradition of a Super Tuscan wine. No matter what Tenors is not to be missed. There truly is no better place to soak up a is on the tasting menu each day, guests can be assured little bit of Italy in the Sonoma Valley. that every wine at VJB is produced with an eye toward New World innovation and Old World sensibility. VJB Vineyards & Cellars VJB produces less than 7,500 cases annually and Tasting Available 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily a large portion of the grapes are grown on the 12 Espresso Bar & Deli at 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily acre estate vineyard nearby. The wines are available 60 Shaw Avenue, Kenwood exclusively in the tasting room or through membership (Corner of Sonoma Highway 12 & Shaw Avenue) in their popular wine club, Club Enoteca. (707) 833-2300 • www.vjbcellars.com

Mention this story for complimentary tasting + 15 % savings on any wine purchase! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 49 Kenwood Vineyards With so many wine tasting options in the Sonoma Valley it really is a no-brainer to choose to taste at Art, Food & Wine Kenwood Vineyards. Winemaker Pat Henderson has been Reservations are required at least 72 hours in amassing a plethora of awards including, most recently, advance for the Art, Food & Wine Experience, every Double Gold, Golds and Silvers at the 2013 San Francisco Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. Chronicle Wine Competition. Whether you sip the For reservations, call (707) 282-4228 or go to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, the Zinfandel or Cabernet www.kenwoodvineyards.com. The cost is $30 per Sauvignon, you will taste an award winner! person and $25 per person for wine club members. Nestled in the heart of the Sonoma Valley, the Kenwood Vineyards tasting room is housed in a converted barn Fun Fact that dates back to 1906. The winery is committed to Since 1976, Kenwood Vineyards has the sole rights to producing premium varietal wines that reflect Sonoma all the grapes from the historic Jack London Vineyards. County’s finest vineyards in their character and style. More than 125 stainless steel fermenting and upright oak Varietals tanks are used in combination with 14,000 French and Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, American oak barrels. Kenwood has earned the reputation White Zinfandel, Moscato, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Zinfandel, of producing consistent, quality wines for more than 40 Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Vintage White (blend), years. Vintage Red (blend), Sparkling Wine 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 Kenwood Vineyards winery hosts the Experience every Saturday and Sunday Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from 1 to 3 p.m. where guests can taste the Cabernet Sauvignon while learning and viewing the renowned 9592 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA 95452 Artist Series collection. On display are original art pieces (707) 833-5891 from the collection that began with the controversial 1975 www.kenwoodvineyards.com “Naked Lady” by David Lance Goines. Savory appetizers are paired with the wines to provide Look for Kenwood Vineyards an incomparable experience like no other in the Valley. on Facebook & Twitter by Mike Hyland Enjoy responsibly.

Mention this story to receive complimentary tasting.

50 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Glen Ellen Follow Highway 12, once the railway system, through the Valley of the Moon to the bucolic berg of Food Glen Ellen! Glen Ellen is more than just a town. It is the “foodie” and wine destination for Sonoma Glen Ellen Inn Oyster Grill & Martini Bar locals. Located north of downtown Sonoma on Arnold Drive, just west of Highway 12, Glen Ellen 13670 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen restaurants and town market celebrate the best of local wines, produce and services. (707) 996-6409, www.glenelleninn.com Check out Glen Ellen’s award-winning wineries such as Eric Ross, Benzinger, Audelssa, HKG, Mayo Fusion of local ingredients paired with French, Family, B.R. Cohn, Arrowood and Moondance Cellars. Enjoy a rejuvenating spa experience inside a Asian and Italian influences. large, historic wine cask at Magical Massage. Walk Jack London’s hillsides and explore the famous ruins of his Wolf House. Or, gather with friends and family at local spots such as The Fig Café, Glen Glen Ellen Star Ellen Inn, Garden Court Café, Saffron and Yeti – the best curry you’ll have outside of India. 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen Whatever your taste, Glen Ellen is one sweet town that satisfies time and again. (707) 343-1384, glenellenstar.com The menu features rustic California Wine Country cui- Things to Do Bouverie Preserve sine with local and international influences including Jack London State Historical Park 13935 Highway 12, Glen Ellen delicious offerings from the wood-burning brick oven. 2400 London Ranch Rd., Glen Ellen (707) 938-4554, www.egret.org TO Yeti Restaurant SANTA ROSA Magnificent 535-acre property features a Half-mile-long trail cirlcles through 14301 Arnold Drive, Jack London Village, Glen Ellen LOS AMOS RD rich and distinct combination of plants world-famous author, Jack London’sLEDSON (707) 996-9930, www.yetirestaurant.com and animals, including more than 130 Beauty Ranch – features the remains Fusion of both Nepalese and Indian cultures. PYTHIAN RDST. FRANCIS of Jack London’s dream home destroyed species of birds, 350 species of flowering plants and numerous large mammals by fire before moving in as well as a Garden Court Cafe such as the bobcat, grey fox,Sugarloaf and coyote. Ridge museum and the grave site of Jack and State Park 13647 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen ON RD. CANY OBE CharmianTO London. AD (707) 935-1565, www.gardencourtcafe.com SANTA ROSA 12The Red Barn Store at Oak Hill Farm 15101 Highway 12, Glen Ellen A local favorite for breakfast, brunch and lunch. LAWNDALE Vineyards Inn Quarryhill Botanical Garden (707) 996-6643,ST. JEAN RDwww.oakhillfarm.net “If you leave hungry, it’s your own fault.” Cafe Citti CHATEAU 12841 Highway 12, Glen Ellen Rustic 100-year-oldCHATEAU ST. dairy JEAN barn selling EN GARDE Glen Ellen Village Market (707) 996-6027, www.quarryhillbg.org fresh herbs,KENWOOD lettuce, VINEYARDSheirloom vegetables, VJB CELLARS 13751 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen Asian botanical gardens featuringMayo Family one Reserveof RoomflowersSwede’s and Feeds ornamental greens, hand- Kenwood Farmhouse Pets, Gardens & Gifts (707) 996-6728, www.sonoma-glenellenmkt.com the largest collections of documented, Parkcrafted wreaths, dried goods, bouquets WARMDepot SPRINGS RD Pack the perfect picnic at this wine country inspired wild-collected Asian plants in the world. Churchand gifts. Kenwood Restaurant gourmet market with fresh, local products. Kenwood Inn and Spa

MATANZAS Driving Time: 28 minutes Lodging

D From Matanzas Creek Gaige House Inn CREEK R

S G to Moondance Cellars 8 miles N B I 13540 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen R E P N to Eric Ross Winery 0 miles N S Beltane E T M LOXTON

T R to Valley of the Moon >2 mile (707) 935-0237, www.gaige.com

V A Ranch

L L CELLARS to Little Vineyards .5 miles E Y Asian-inspired ambiance combined with modern luxury. R to B.R. Cohn Winery >.5 miles D . D R to Loxton Cellars >4 miles Granite soaking tubs and private Japanese gardens perfect R

A B Total 14.5 miles

W UN for in-suite spa treatments. Michelin recommended.

A D R

S Ranked as 18 in Conde Nast’s Top Small Hotels in the U.S.

R Gaige

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R D Inn Beltane Ranch NCH RD. RA Glen Ellen Star Quarry Hill Botanical Garden Jack London ON 11775 Highway 12, Glen Ellen ND Glen Ellen Inn State Park LO Jack London Lodge Garden Court Cafe Bouverie Preserve www.beltaneranch.com, (707) 996-6501 Glen Ellen Village Market 1892 ranch house and cottage – walking trails lead past horses and cattle, through vineyards, olive orchards and ERIC ROSS Yeti MOONDANCE BR COHN organically farmed produce gardens. CELLARS LITTLE The Red Barn Store Jack London Lodge VINEYARDS at Oak Hill Farm 13740 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen VALLEY OF MADRONE www.jacklondonlodge, (707) 938-8510 THE MOON CAVEDALE Situated on Sonoma Creek quiet, peaceful setting with

MOON MTN a pool, heated spa and lovely gardens. Facility includes Wolf House Restaurant and historic Jack London Saloon.

AGUA CALIENTE ROAD www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 51 ARNOLD DRIVE

BOYES BL VD

D R VE E A K O IC N R A H R E VE Girl G & The Depot Museum GROVE Fig Home of General Vallejo Swiss Hotel California Ramekins LOVELL VALLEY ROAD

ORANGE SPAIN ST. Mission El Dorado Kitchen OLD WINERY THE Sebastiani Theatre CHARLES CREEK PLAZA

7th ST

4th E EAST NAPA ST WINE COUNTRYWEST NAPA ST Hopmonk BRYTER DELLA SANTINA

CYCLERY WEST Tavern DENMARK ST 5th ST 5th

BROADWAY MacArthur Place Lodge at Sonoma Traintown NAPA ROAD 8th ST EAST 12 Fremont TO LEVERONI ROAD Diner

PETALUMA BURNDALE 5th ST EAST 12 CARNEROS RD TO NAPA 116 121 FREMONT

BONNEAU

TO PETALUMA 121 101

TO SAN FRANCISCO 37 Matanzas Creek Winery This is what visiting Wine Country is all about - roll down the windows, let the fresh country air flow and Varietals meander the scenic winding road past horses, dairy Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, cows and vineyards, all just to see where the road might Sauvignon Blanc and dessert wine lead. What to Taste Today let the road take you to Matanzas Creek The Journey wines, crafted from the most pedigreed vineyard Winery, a place that offers something for the wine lover, sites in Sonoma County. Try the Journey Chardonnay or the the gardener, the epicurian. Matanzas Creek, which put Journey Red Wine, a Bordeaux-style blend. the bucolic east Santa Rosa neighborhood of Bennett Valley on the map, took its name from the creek that New Wine and Cheese Pairing Matanzas Creek now offers a decadent wine and cheese drains away the runoff in the valley. The area enjoys a tasting expertly paired and prepared by the winery chefs. unique microclimate among North Coast appellations, Offered all day, every day! with cooling influences from several fronts - the Russian River Valley and Petaluma Gap from the west and Special Tours and Tasting Opportunities southwest, and the San Pablo Bay to the south and Matanzas Creek offers private tours and tasting daily at southeast. 10:30am. Choose from a Tour and Vintage Room Tasting or go Matanzas Creek produces a wide range of wines that all out with a Tour, Vintage Room Library Tasting and Cheese reflect the viticultural diversity of Bennett Valley and Pairing! Reservations required. Sonoma County. Currently the winery is showcasing the Little Known Fact many faces of Sauvignon Blanc, the perfect spring and You can take a free, self-guided vineyard tour during regular summer season wine produced here in three distinct tasting room hours. The walk is less than a mile and is and delicious styles notable for their beautiful aromatics. designed for all ages and levels of wine experience. No Visitors flock to Matanzas Creek in the spring and reservations required. early summer when the lavender fields are in bloom. Matanzas Creek Winery Peak lavender season is June, culminating in the Days of Wine and Lavender event on June 29, 2013. Lavender Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. has long been a much celebrated co-star here, and a 6097 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 section of the tasting room is dedicated to a myriad of 1-800-590-6464 | (707) 528-6464 lavender products including soaps, scents, oils and spa [email protected] products made at the winery. by Michelle J. Baker www.matanzascreek.com

Mention Day Trips and Receive 10% off a purchase of two bottles or more

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

Mention Day Trips for 2 for 1 wine tasting and 10% off wine purchase. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 53 Eric Ross Winery If one is charged with finding a perfect wine for the perfect meal, Eric Ross is the place to look. Eric Ross Wines Not to Miss specializes in wines from some of the most prestigious 2010 Marsanne~Roussanne – The two varietals produce a rich nutty local wine growing regions, varietals originating from floral characteristics of apricot, ripe melon and pear followed by France, Spain and even Portugal. Any wine lover can bright acidity and lovely honeyed textures. discover a wine that goes with their favorite meal, or 2011 Pinot Noir – Classic Russian River Valley Pinot Noir aromatic simply enjoying a glass on the front porch. Stylistically, spices with black cherry, ripe plum, cola with bright layers of ripe each wine makes a sophisticated statement blossoming raspberry. the longer one savors it with a elegant finish. 2010 Tempranillo – Lodi sustainable farming produces this rich As you discover a new quality wine with every sip exotic Spanish varietal showing layers of blackberry, espresso and take a moment to experience the photography adorning dark chocolate, followed by hints of dry-cured black Moroccan olives. the tasting room walls. The winemaker, Eric Luse, began his wine journey as a photographer for the San Francisco VARIETALS Chronicle. Fascinated by wine and the wine country Albarino, Marsanne-Roussanne, Russian River Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, lifestyle Luse began college level training of winemaking Old Vine Zinfandel, Syrah, Old Vine Zin Port are available by the case and viticulture while continuing to photograph vineyard or the bottle during regular tasting room hours with 20% discounts workers as the seasons changed in the vineyards. available for club members. Eric’s photography reflects the personality of his Learn More subject and his winemaking follows the same philosophy. Each of Luse’s photos has a vivid story behind it. Feel free to ask It’s not about the winemaker it’s about the vineyard. about the individual lives of the vineyard workers that he has so Whether it’s the Albarino, Tempranillo, Grenache or eloquently depicted and memorialized. The beauty of some specific Pinot Noir they all reflect the personality of those specific vineyards. pictures stem from the minimalistic presentation of the photograph With a total annual production of roughly 3000 cases, contrasted with the depths of emotion in the central point of focus. Eric Ross does not distribute outside of the tasting room Eric Ross Winery enjoying a robust wine club and tasting room experience. Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. So, stop at Eric Ross, pick up some fabulous wine and open one tonight … it is sure to make your dinner 14300 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen exceptional. By Brendan Conroy (707) 939-8525 | www.ericross.com For private tastings, contact Dennis & Diane Become a Fan of Eric Ross Winery on Facebook! (707) 939-8525 or [email protected]

Complimentary tasting with purchase with this Day Trip

54 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Valley of the Moon Winery The Sonoma Valley was originally called the Valley of the Moon by the Mayacamas Indians that inhabited the valley VARIETALS long before General Mariano Vallejo laid claim to the land in Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Port, the name of Mexico. Because of the mountains that surround Pinot Blanc, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, both sides of the valley floor, the Indians thought there were Rosato di Sangiovese, Syrah, Cuvée de la Luna (red many moons in the night sky. Today, we know Valley of the blend), Barbera, Petite Sirah, Sparkling Wine, Brandy Moon as one of the top premium wineries in the Sonoma Valley. Tours The history of the Valley of the Moon is as rich and deep Free tours of the winemaking facilities as the soil in which its grapes are grown. The winery, the are available daily at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. oldest in Glen Ellen, was founded by George Whitman in Group Tours of 10-50 people are available by advance 1863. Over the years, it was owned by Eli T. Sheppard, a reservation $20/pp. Please call (707) 939-4520. former Consul to China and George Hearst, a United States Senator and father of William Randolph Hearst. Following Tastings the prohibition years, the winery was revitalized in 1941 Tasting fees are $10 per person. Hungry while tasting? by Parducci and Domenici, two pioneer winegrowers and Starting April 1, enjoy a cheese and charcuterie wine vintners, until 1956 when the Parducci family took sole pairing for $25 with local artisanal cheeses and meats. control and renamed the winery Valley of the Moon. The family sold the winery to its current owner, F. Korbel & Bros. Inc. in 1997. Valley of the Moon Winery The tasting room and the grounds of the facility are 777 Madrone Road, Glen Ellen CA 95442 home to some of the most beautiful vistas in the Sonoma Valley. Plan to spend some time on the grounds and if you (707) 939-4510 are hungry, a variety of charcuterie and cheeses are available www.valleyofthemoonwinery.com in the tasting room for a picnic paired with some of the Look for them on Facebook & Twitter delicious wines. Winemaker Greg Winter creates a unique flavor of California with his ultra-premium award winning Sonoma Valley of the Moon Winery reminds you wines, embracing both time-honored winemaking tradition that even great wines and state-of-the-art production. By Mike Hyland should be enjoyed in moderation.

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 55 Little Vineyards Are you looking for a boutique, family-owned winery experience where you can enjoy estate-grown red wines? The Little Family Highly recommended invites you to their 23-acre property nestled in the historical Valley Guests are always welcome to picnic on the patio of the Moon region of the Sonoma Valley to enjoy breathtaking or with advance notice, can order a gourmet picnic views of the Mayacamus and Sonoma Mountains while sampling box lunch for $30 person. Enjoy lunch, wine and award-winning wines from the vineyards that surround you. the views among the vineyards. Rich and Joan Little, together with Joan’s brother and winemaker, Ted Coleman, founded the winery in 2002, releasing Varietals their first two vintages, one of which received a gold medal at the Little Vineyards Family Winery produces small lots Sonoma County Harvest Fair. Their wines continue to receive of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah and Petite numerous awards, including a 98 points at the California State Fair Sirah as well as beautiful red blends, all from grapes for their Cabernet Sauvignon. grown on their estate vineyards. When visiting the tasting room, step up to the historic Glen Ellen bar previously enjoyed by writer Jack London, who remains a Fun fact legendary figure in the Sonoma Valley. The Little Family, also gifted A recording studio and rehearsal space on property musicians, love to bring their passion for music into the tasting has brought many well known musicians to the room on occasion to entertain their guests, an experience you winery, and guests are able to enjoy the abundance won’t want to miss. Additionally, Rich Little gets together with his of music played by Rich on his Chapman Stick, Sonoma Valley music buddies once a month for “Jammin’ In The Vineyards,” a series that was inaugurated in June of this year. a guitar-like instrument. Rich Little’s hobby of Even with the mountain vistas, the beautiful vineyards and the restoring old trucks is something for all visitors to music, it is the wine that takes center stage at Little Vineyards. The enjoy, especially his 1948 Ford trucks. red varietals that are all estate grown are some of the finest in the county. Producing less than 2,500 cases each year, winemaker Ted Coleman creates small lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah Little Vineyards Family Winery and Petite Syrah as well as a series of “Band Blend” wines, beautiful Open Thursday-Monday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. red blends that come from estate grown grapes. Plus, their first ever 15188 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen CA 95442 Band Blend Rosé, a gold medal winner from the San Francisco International Wine competition. (707) 996-2750 | www.littlevineyards.com

Mention this story for a 10% discount on the purchase of two or more bottles of wine.

56 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com B.R. Cohn Winery Rounding a curve on Highway 12, the sight of the pristine, white farmhouse that is home to the B.R. Cohn Winery looks Fun facts: like a postcard in the making. This small family-operated • Bruce Cohn sold his first crop of grapes to winery, surrounded by the Olive Hill Estate Vineyards, says August Sebastiani. “Sonoma” in a way that no other winery quite can. • The original Picholine olive trees were imported The vineyards are warmed by underground hot springs, from France in the 1870s and inspired the name while cool ocean breezes from the west swoop in to create Olive Hill Estate Vineyards. the ideal growing conditions for the B.R. Cohn line of wines, • Soon-to-be-famous winemaker, Helen Turley, was including exceptional Cabernets, Zinfandels, Malbec, Merlots, an early member of the B.R. Cohn team and wowed Petite Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The Olive Hill designation the wine world with stellar releases of B.R. Cohn’s is famous throughout the region for providing the highest first four vintages. quality of grapes and many of the region’s top winemakers • Besides owning one of Sonoma’s most famous have utilized fruit from these vineyards in their production of wineries, Bruce Cohn is also the manager of the premium wine. Doobie Brothers. But magnificent wine is not the only draw of this popular winery. In 1990, Bruce Cohn began producing gourmet extra B.R. Cohn Winery virgin olive oil from the 140-year-old Picholine olive trees & Olive Oil Company that dot his land, as well as handcrafted vinegars. His B.R. Cohn Olive Oil is now considered one of the finest examples Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. of ultra-premium olive oil in California. 15000 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen Music is another passion of this very Renaissance man. (707) 938-4064 | www.brcohn.com The Charity Fall Music Festival held at the winery, now in its Email: [email protected] 27th year, has garnered a loyal following and helped to make the winery a primary destination spot for visitors to the area. To schedule tours by appointment, call Don’t miss the Gourmet Shop either, where you can 1-800-330-4064 ext. 124 sample their line of gourmet olive oils and hand-crafted vinegars. YouTube: www.youtube.com/brcohnwinery On the many sunny days that grace this beautiful corner Flicker: www.flickr.com/photos/brcohn of the world, their patio area provides the perfect location Twitter: twitter.com/BRCohn for a picnic and a chance to gaze out at the rolling vineyards Facebook: www.facebook.com/ surrounding the estate. By Ronda Giangreco brcohnwinery

Step into the Gourmet Shop for a taste through our Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegar www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 57 Loxton Cellars “It has always been my intent to produce wines that show balance and a sense of place and to produce the best wines Highly recommended possible without compromise,” says Chris Loxton, a fourth If visiting Loxton Cellars on a weekend, call ahead (707- generation winemaker who produced his first wines in 1996. 935-7221) and reserve a spot for the Vineyard Walk “Our winery, in the heart of the Sonoma Valley, is a place with owner/winemaker Chris Loxton. The educational where visitors can relate to how the wine tastes, where they tour takes about 90 minutes and ends with a special are made and by whom.” tasting. Loxton’s father, grandfather and great grandfather were all winegrowers and winemakers in his native Australia, but Varietals Chardonnay (2), Pinot Noir, Zinfandel (2), Syrah (4), Chris was so taken with California that he was determined to Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Red Blends, Port make wine in the Sonoma Valley. “This valley has so much history when it comes to Don’t miss winemaking,” says Loxton. “Here in my little corner of New releases of the 2010 Pinot Noir, Russian River the world I am surrounded by history – Kunde Vineyards Valley, gold medal at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair; established in 1870, Pagnani Vineyards since 1885 and 2010 Chardonnay Hawk Hill Vineyard (Russian River Wellington started in 1890 – all surround my property. Some Valley) a silver medal winner at the Sonoma County 120 years of growing grapes means there is something right Harvest Fair; and the 2010 Port another gold medal with the soil here.” winner at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair and made Loxton has taken it upon himself to show off that history from 100% Syrah fruit. to his guests by giving a personally guided “Vineyard Walk” of his property to show his various vineyards and why Loxton Cellars they are played where they are. “It’s the soil that dictates what to grow and where to grow it,” says Loxton, “not the Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. winegrower.” 11466 Dunbar Road Following the 30 to 45 minute walking tour of the Glen Ellen, CA 95442 property, Loxton brings his guests back to the tasting room for a special, sit down tasting, explaining the nuances in each (707) 935-7221 of the wines that are being sampled. The tour schedules will www.loxtoncellars.com increase during the summer months, and start around 10:30 a.m. Reservations are recommended. By Mike Hyland

Don’t miss the Walkabout Tours on Saturday and Sunday mornings, only $15 per person.

58 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com TO SANTA ROSA LOS AMOSLEDSON RD

PYTHIAN RDST. FRANCIS

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park ON RD. CANY OBE TO AD SANTA ROSA 12

LAWNDALE Vineyards Inn ST. JEAN RD Cafe Citti CHATEAUCHATEAU ST. JEAN EN GARDE VJB CELLARS KENWOOD VINEYARDS Mayo Family Reserve Room Swede’s Feeds Kenwood Farmhouse Pets, Gardens & Gifts

SonomaWARM SPRINGSPark RD Visitors seeking an over-the-top ultra-luxuryDepot wine country experience would best steer clear of idyllic, slow Sonoma Valley. Church Sure, doublewide tractors grace the two-lane HighwayKenwood Restaurant 12, wide-open ranchlands blanket the valley between towns, and wooly sheep keep weeds and grasses minimal in the vineyards.Kenwood But Inn no and doubt Spa you will also find countless award-winning wineries and world-class restaurants throughout all of Sonoma. Living in SonomaMATANZAS Valley is all about life, about taste and enjoying each day. “Sonomans” are very proud of their heritage and their town.

Excellence is whatCREEK they do …R it’s just done in blue jeans.

G N B I R E P N N S Beltane Things toE Do Sebastiani Theatre Food T M LOXTON

T R

V A Ranch

L Sonoma PlazaL CELLARS 476 First St. East, on the Plaza, Sonoma E Y Della Santina’s R D D (707) 996-2020, www.sebastianitheatre.com Picturesque city. plaza boasts unique shops, R 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma

A fine art galleries, award-winning restauB - Enjoy an eclectic blend of cinema and live (707) 935-0576, www.dellasantinas.com

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A D R rants and fine wines availableM for tasting. entertainment that includes critically Traditional Italian fare is based upon Quirico Della San-

R Gaige

I Historic points include: MissionN San Fran- acclaimed art, foreign, and classic films, tina’s family recipes growing up in Lucca, Italy and his

G House

cisco de Solano, Barracks, ToscanoD Inn Hotel, contemporary and vintage music, magic, sheer talent as a chef; cozy dining room, marble fireplace,

NCH RD. patio and Enoteca Wine Bar. Bear Flag RA statue. Glen Ellen Star Quarryballet, Hill Botanical opera Garden and musical theatre – built Jack London ON ND Glen Ellen Inn LO in 1933. State ParkSonoma TrainTownJack London Lodge Railroad Garden Court Cafe Bouverie Preserve Swiss Hotel Bar & Restaurant Glen Ellen 18 West Spain Street,Sonoma 20264 Broadway, Sonoma Village Market Ramekins Culinary School (707) 938-2884, www.swisshotelsonoma.com (707) 938-3912, www.traintown.com 450 West Spain St, Sonoma ERIC ROSS Yeti Located on the Plaza, this historic bar is a favorite among “The Most Well-DevelopedMOONDANCE ScaleBR Railroad COHN (707) 933-0450, www.ramekins.com locals who can often be seen seated on the sidewalk patio in the Americas!”CELLARS Steam and LITTLEdiesel scale The RedExperience Barn Store the essence of Sonoma Wine enjoying modern renditions of classical Italian fare . railroad rides, petting zoo, miniature town, at OakCountry Hill Farm with cooking classes, events – VINEYARDS Hopmonk Tavern ferris wheel and carousel rides. even four-day culinary retreats! VALLEY OF MADRONE 691 Broadway, Sonoma Depot Museum THE MOON CAVEDALEHome of General Vallejo (707) 935-9100, www.hopmonk.com Large selection of beers; traditional and innovative 270 First St. West, Sonoma MOON MTN“Lachryma Montis” (707) 938-1762, www.vom.com/depot West of the plaza on W. Spain St., $3 pairings of beer and food. Check the website for live music. Open 1-4:30 p.m., Wednesday-SundayAGUA CALIENTE ROAD 1850s Victorian house furnished with Fine museum with historically significant Vallejo’s personal effects - as though the Girl & The Fig collections. Admission is free. General and his wife had just stepped out. 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma (707) 938-3634, www.thegirlandthefig.com ARNOLD DRIVE “Country food restaurant with a French passion.”

BOYES BL VD Lodging El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen 12 405 1st Street West, Sonoma (707) 996-3220, www.eldoradosonoma.com D R VE E A K O IC 27-room contemporary boutique hotel located on the N R A H R E VE Girl G Plaza. Restaurant is “sophisticated urban style with & The Depot Museum GROVE Fig Home of General Vallejo Swiss Hotel California relaxed wine-country dining.” Ramekins LOVELL VALLEY ROAD

ORANGE SPAIN ST. Mission El Dorado Kitchen OLD WINERY Sonoma Hotel THE Sebastiani Theatre CHARLES CREEK PLAZA 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma

7th ST

4th E EAST NAPA ST (707) 996-2996, www.sonomahotel.com WEST NAPA ST WINE COUNTRY A 16-room, 19th-century hotel with modern amenities. Hopmonk BRYTER DELLA SANTINA

CYCLERY WEST Tavern DENMARK ST Located downtown on the plaza. 5th ST 5th BROADWAY MacArthur Place MacArthur Place Lodge at Sonoma Traintown NAPA ROAD 8th ST EAST 29 E. MacArthur Street, Sonoma 12 Fremont (707) 938-2929, www.macarthurplace.com TO LEVERONI ROAD Diner

PETALUMA BURNDALE 19th-century estate transformed into a luxurious inn 5th ST EAST 12 CARNEROS RD TO NAPA and spa featuring Saddles – Sonoma’s best steakhouse 116 121 FREMONT The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa 1325 Broadway, Sonoma

BONNEAU (707) 935-6600, www.thelodgeatsonoma.com

TO Spacious and luxurious accommodations; world-class PETALUMA Raindance Spa; award-winning Carneros Bistro & 121 Wine Bar; excellent venue for weddings and corporate 101 events.

TO SAN FRANCISCOwww.WineCountryThisWeek.com 59 37 Charles Creek Vineyard The wholesome, unpretentious charm of the Sonoma Plaza is undeniable. Fortunately for the Charles Creek Vineyard Fun Facts Tasting Room, it is also the view out their front door. • Charles Creek Winery’s Tecolote Wine Club is named Being located directly across from the historic stone after his grandmother. It is Spanish for “owl” and was city hall and leafy expanses of the famous Sonoma Plaza is his grandfather’s nickname for her. certainly an advantage, but having award-winning wines to • Bill Brinton is a direct descendent of John Deere, pour is really the true measure of a tasting room’s draw for who gained fame and fortune as the inventor of the the wine lovers who flock to the Sonoma Valley. self-scouring steel plow and started one of America’s The Charles Creek Winery does not fail to deliver. Among most successful companies. the multiple award-winning Chardonnays in current release, • Charles Creek is named after Bill and Gerry’s son, their 2010 “Las Patolitas” Sonoma County Chardonnay was Charley. awarded two gold medals as well as a 94-point rating (from the California State Fair). Charles Creek Vineyard Created when Bill and Gerry Brinton, the descendants of Open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Midwestern farm stock, took the step to expand their little family vineyard into a real commercial winery. Charles Creek 483 First Street West, on the Sonoma Plaza Winery specializes in Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon (707) 935-3848 | www.charlescreek.com as well as small lots of a refreshingly dry rosé and a soon-to- be-released Carneros Pinot Noir from the vintage of 2012. Find them on Facebook and Twitter 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 room…in fact, she nearly takes over the space. But no one complains. She’s 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

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.

60 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Bryter Estates Take a stroll through the quaint Sonoma Court Shops, off the plaza, and discover BRYTER Estates, a boutique family OVERALL PHILOSOPHY winery, offering premier, small-lot wines that are sure to “Let nature take its course, bringing the beauty of delight the senses. old world style winemaking to every perfectly Winemaker and proprietor, Terin Ignozzi, handcrafts balanced bottle of BRYTER Estates wine.” award-winning wines by applying old world winemaking techniques with the finest selection of fruit from the Napa, WHAT TO TASTE “Le Stelle” North Coast Brut is a sparkling wine you Sonoma and Santa Barbara Regions, resulting in perfectly must try. Le Stelle delivers bright flavors of citrus and balanced, elegant wines. pear with beautiful floral aromas and a crisp finish. The BRYTER Estates Tasting Salon symbolizes their Best of Class, 2012 California State Fair. passion for exceptional wines, delicious food and fine art. The rustically chic styled room is warm and welcoming VARIETALS PRODUCED with its bright window seating, soft lighting and earth-tone Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, tiled floors. The front counter façade is made of reclaimed Sangiovese and Marsanne redwood from the Ignozzi’s 100-year-old barn, and the counter top is made of a cool feeling zinc. Showcased on FUN FACTS the walls, is a rotating display of original art pieces by • Winemaker, Terin Ignozzi, first learned how to make masters Dali, Chagall and Vlaminck, featured local artists, or wine from her Italian grandparents. gorgeous photos showcasing their vineyards, depending on the season. BRYTER Estates BRYTER Estates delivers on their promise of California treasured wines, producing nine varietals such as, the Open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Double Gold award winning “Affine,” a lightly oaked crisp 25 East Napa Street, Suite E, Sonoma Chardonnay, with notes of apple, pear and zesty lemon. www.bryter.com BRYTER is also the proud recipient of the Best of California Award for their 2009 Napa Valley “Inspired” Cabernet (707) 501-8757 Sauvignon with rich velvety tannins, balanced oak and fruit. www.facebook.com/BryterEstates

BRYTER Estates “Inspired” Cabernet Sauvignon... Best of California (2012 Cal State Fair). www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 61 Della Santina’s Located off the historic square, Della Santina’s is a family- owned and operated restaurant that has stood the test of time Enoteca Della Santina Next Door – Sonoma’s Best Wine Bar to become a Sonoma institution. The Della Santina family • More than 300 selections of domestic and name shares a long lineage and history in the Tuscan town international wines at competitive prices of Lucca, Italy. My father Quirico Salvatore Giovanni Della • 30 wines by the glass, customized flights and Santina migrated from Lucca in 1960. specialty beers • Assorted cheeses and panini served daily Residing in the North Beach area of San Francisco, Quirico • Winemaker dinners and educational seminars, became a baker by trade. Later, he was lured to Marin County call for schedule by his uncle Adolph to work in the family restaurant: Marin • Thursdays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. – “Burger Thursdays’’ Joes. After 25 years of successful ownership in a thriving • Sundays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. – “Sausage and Suds” business, he decided to go out on his own in beautiful Both locations are available for private events. Sonoma Valley. Since 1990, we have continued to bring Tuscan country cooking to the wine country using recipes Della Santina’s passed down from my grandmothers Pia Fontana Della The restaurant is open seven days a week Santina and Clary Gambogi Barsotti. for lunch and dinner; In 2008, we opened Enoteca Della Santina, a wine bar and reservations are recommended. retail wine shop specializing in wines from all over the world. 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma Enoteca, translated literally in Italian, means “wine library” – (707) 935-0576 a place for people to enjoy a glass in an Old World ambiance. www.dellasantinas.com 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 Enoteca Della Santina globe looking for value selections that expand our members’ Open late in the evenings, closed Mondays. palates and knowledge. Day to day, the bar is a gathering 127 East Napa Street, Sonoma spot for locals and tourists looking to experience a taste of (707) 938-4200 Sonoma Wine Country living. By Robert Della Santina www.enotecadellasantina.com

Wine Bar – Enoteca Della Santina – is open late most evenings!

62 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Wine Country Cyclery Wine Country Cyclery offers the perfect way to truly capture the grandeur of the Sonoma Valley. Why hassle Fun Facts • Wine Country Cyclery boasts the youngest rental fleet with traffic when you can leisurely pedal to some of the of comfort hybrid bikes, replacing them yearly. Their valley’s most celebrated tasting rooms. Wine Country high-end road bikes are continuously maintained for visitors who simply fly by the vineyards at fifty miles top performance. per hour are missing out on the very best aspects of the • Already a cycling pro? Bring your own pedals, shoes, experience. The aroma of the grapes, the warmth of the even your saddle – a certified fitter will personally sun and sound of gentle breezes rustling through the size you to your rental bike. If you’re coming from far vines are best enjoyed at a much more relaxed pace. The away, ship your bike to Wine Country Cyclery...they’ll put it together and have it waiting for you. When knowledgeable staff at Wine Country Cyclery will gladly you’re ready to leave, they’ll pack it carefully for a safe help you plan an unforgettable winery tour, supplying shipment back. you with maps and tasting room coupons. • Don’t own your own equipment? They have a The shop is conveniently located just off the plaza selection of helmets, locks and pedals such as in downtown Sonoma and offers a wide range of bikes Shimano, Look and SpeedPlay. for every skill level and age of cyclist. Their fleet of Packing a picnic? road bikes features some of the very best, including Wine Country Cyclery has bike trailers that can hold all Cannondale EVOs and Trek Madones. They also have of your goodies, as well as your wine purchases along helmets and pedals. If you are planning on bringing your the way! own bicycle to the wine country, Wine Country Cyclery Make it a family trip! has experienced mechanics available seven days a week Wine Country Cyclery has Tag-a-Long bikes that allow kids to do last minute adjustments or make quick repairs. to enjoy the ride, too, as well as bike trailers that can seat two small children. And, to finish off your day of adventure and sunshine, Wine Country Cyclery can arrange for you to Wine Country Cyclery savor a “lite bite” food and wine pairing at Roche Family Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Winery tasting room. With award-winning wines and the scrumptious offerings of the Sunflower Caffe, you’ll enjoy 262 W Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 the perfect ending to your trip on their patio, gathered (707) 996-6800 around the firepit, wine glass in hand. They even offer winecountrycyclery.com extended hours for late arrivals. Follow Wine Country Cyclery on Facebook! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 63 Los Carneros On the south end of Sonoma is one of the most unique appellations, Los Carneros, that bridges both Napa and Sonoma counties. Colloquially known as simply “Carneros” (or “ram” in Spanish), Carneros has long been known for its cool, coastal climate, natural beauty and unparalleled Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, Syrahs and sparkling wines.

Things to Do Food Sonoma Country Antiques Fremont Diner 23999 Arnold Drive (Hwy 121), Sonoma 2698 Fremont Drive, Sonoma (707) 938-8315 (707) 938-7370 www.sonomaantiques.com www.thefremontdiner.com Buyers have been traveling to Europe for Like ’em on Facebook over three decades, hand selecting one-of- Old-fashioned style roadside hamburger a-kind antiques and accessories. Explore joint with updated menu. Fresh, local and be inspired in our 10,000 square feet ingredients. Try the pulled-pork sandwich of elegantly designed showrooms. or grilled cheese with sage and be sure to Cornerstone Sonoma splurge on the milkshakes! 23570 Arnold Drive, Sonoma Sonoma’s Best (707) 933-3010 1190 East Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 www.cornerstonegardens.com (707) 996-7600, www.sonomas-best.com Viansa Tasting Room & Marketplace “CornerStone Sonoma is an eclectic col- The old-fashioned landmark store offers 25200 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA, 95476 lection of shops, wineries and a gourmet food products for which the County of (707) 935-4726, www.viansa.com cafe set amidst nine acres of garden in- Sonoma is famous – artisanal cheeses, stallations created by the world’s leading salads and soups, tamales, charcuterie, Viansa is the perfect place to have a relaxing lunch – they of- landscape architects.” pastries and ice cream – along with exqui- fer fresh made sandwiches, salads, antipasti, soups, and fruit site Blue Bottle Coffee. salads to enjoy with Viansa wines and phenomenal views. Vintage Aircraft Co. Weahter permitting, you can also enjoy a game of bocce ball! 3982 Arnold Drive, Sonoma Schellville Grill (707) 938-2444 22900 Broadway, Sonoma www.vintageaircraft.com (707) 996-5151, www.schellvillegrill.com Lodging Get a bird’s eye view of the rolling hills BBQ fare, sandwiches and burgers. “Dy- El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen carpeted in vineyards all the way to San namite food,” according to Guy Fieri, with 405 1st Street West, Sonoma Francisco and beyond! Offering safe, “better12 than any store-bought barbecue (707) 996-3220, www.eldoradosonoma.com exciting flying experiences since 1975. sauce.” 27-room contemporary boutique hotel located on the Plaza. Restaurant is “sophisticated urban style with relaxed wine- country dining.” Sonoma Hotel El Dorado Hotel Sonoma Hotel FRATES 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma STAGE GULCH Lodge at MacArthur LOVALL VALLEY (707) 996-2996, www.sonomahotel.com Sonoma Place E NAPA ST 116 BROADWAY A 16-room, 19th-century hotel with modern amenities. 116 Schellville Grill NAPA RD 7TH E. Sonoma’s Located downtown on the plaza. Best MacArthur Place 12 8TH E. LARSON FAMILY 121 29 E. MacArthur Street, Sonoma (707) 938-2929, www.macarthurplace.com MEADOWCROFT WINES 19th-century estate transformed into a luxurious inn and LAKEVILLE RD. Sonoma Country CornerStone Sonoma Antiques BURNDALEFremont Dinerspa featuring Saddles – Sonoma’s best steakhouse Vintage Aircraft Co. 121 The Lodge at Sonoma CLINE JACUZZI Driving Time: 5 minutes Renaissance Resort & Spa From Viansa 1325 Broadway, Sonoma VIANSA to Cline >1 mile to Jacuzzi 0 miles (707) 935-6600, www.thelodgeatsonoma.com 37 RAMAL to Meadowcroft >1 mile Spacious and luxuriousTO NAPA accommodations; world-class to Larson Family >2 miles Total 3 miles Raindance Spa; award-winning Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar; excellent venue for weddings and corporate events.

64 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Viansa Winery Discover Little Italy in Sonoma Wine Country! Viansa Winery & Marketplace, located just off Highway 121, FUN FACTS magically transports you to Tuscany, Italy. When you arrive, • Viansa’s Tuscan Villa is a replica of a monastery in Italy. you are welcomed by a St. Francis of Assisi statue, petting his • There are over 500 species of birds sighted on the dog. Drive up the road and set your eyes on rows of grapevines, winery’s 113 acre wetlands. tall Cypress trees, elegant rose gardens and Italian fountains. • Enjoy lunch on the patio – wine perfectly paired with Nestled at the top of the hill stands Viansa’s Tuscan Villa with pizza made from Viansa’s very own wood-fired oven. breathtaking views of Sonoma Valley. • Viansa also offers unique Italian inspired wine and Viansa is a rich mixture of traditions with its family history, food pairings by appointment. Tuscan architecture, fine winemaking and culinary offerings. VARIETALS PRODUCED Sonoma’s Italian winemakers, the Sebastianis, created Viansa Viansa produces 18 popular and distinct varietals, in order to share their love of good wine, good food and like Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Barbera, Merlot and Italian heritage. Current owner, Lloyd Davis continues their Cabernet Sauvignon as well as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, commitment to Italian-inspired wines and foods, going to great Arneis, Vernaccia, Primitivo and Sangiovese. lengths to pair homemade Italian recipes with selected wines. As the premier producer of Cal-Ital wines, Viansa draws wine WINES TO TASTE ON YOUR VISIT lovers from all over the world to explore a unique array of wine • 2011 Pinot Grigio: Crisp and refreshing. Citrus, guava, varietals. Two of Viansa’s award-winning wines are the 2011 and green apple with hints of flowers and minerals. Pinot Grigio and 2010 Estate Primitivo, both receiving multiple • 2010 Estate Primitivo: Shows ripe boysenberry, plum, medals in 2012 and 2013. vanilla, oak spice and black pepper. The winery’s marketplace offers specialty foods, including sandwiches, salads, artisan cheeses and desserts. The Viansa Winery marketplace also sells unique merchandise ranging from Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. imported artwork and ceramics, to wine accessories, tapenades and dipping oils. 25200 Arnold Drive, Sonoma Viansa wines are only available at the winery, through Viansa’s 1-800-995-4740 | www.viansa.com Tuscan Club or at www.viansa.com. Viansa also hosts special pinterest.com/viansawinery events, and reserve tastings. With Viansa’s choices of things to see, and do, your day at Viansa will be one to remember! www.facebook.com/ By Monica Dashwood ViansaWineryVineyards Become a Wine Club Member for a day. Present this offer to your Viansa host and receive a 25% savings on wine purchases, 10% on food and gift, and preferred pricing on events! Limit 2 guests per visit. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 65 Cline Cellars Wine tasting is never just about the wine. A picturesque winery, warm and welcoming hosts, and a bucolic setting Fun Fact The vineyards were once the site of a Miwok village, as in which to enjoy a picnic, all combine to produce the well as the site of the original Sonoma Mission before it memories everyone hopes for when they set out to visit the was moved to downtown Sonoma. wine country. No place delivers all three better than Cline Must See Cellars on the southern edge of Sonoma. The California Missions Museum is a marvelous Fred Cline and his wife Nancy moved their winery from collection of scale models of all of the California its original home in Oakley in order to enjoy the magnificent missions. The models first debuted at the 1939 splendor of the Sonoma countryside, as well as to take World’s Fair at Treasure Island and are acclaimed as an extraordinary advantage of the long and fruitful growing season that the and accurate depiction of California history. Carneros region offers. Their tasting room, located in an Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1850s farmhouse, is surrounded by lush green lawns, six Winery Tours/Tasting spring-fed ponds and a glorious array of flowers, including Tours are available at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. daily. more than 5,000 rose bushes. The scene is the perfect Complimentary tasting is offered daily. backdrop for an afternoon of wine tasting, a wedding or a Private tastings can be arranged by appointment. Visit clinecellars.com/tastings to plan your visit. special event. Their historic 350-acre estate is planted to Syrah, What’s Coming Up Swirl, sip and savor on top of Cline’s Syrah Hill. See Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, producing wines that have website for details about this unique experience. consistently garnered rave reviews. But it is Fred’s passion for the Rhone varietals that have made the winery famous. Syrah, Cline Cellars Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne flourish on the estate and Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. produce award-winning wines that have visitors coming back time and time again to this quintessential Sonoma winery. 24737 Arnold Drive, Sonoma By Ronda Giangreco (707) 940-4030 | www.clinecellars.com Follow them at facebook.com/clinewine For tours & reservations visit and on Twitter @clinecellars clinecellars.com/tastings

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

66 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Jacuzzi Family Vineyards The sun is shining on an endless sea of vineyards. You’re sipping a luscious glass of Sangiovese and dipping fresh Fun Tip bread in a bowl of rich, buttery olive oil. A scene from a villa Enjoy wine and pizza in the piazza the last Sunday of in Tuscany? No, just another perfect afternoon at Jacuzzi every month. See website for details. Family Vineyards in Sonoma. Wine Tours The Jacuzzi family first emigrated from Italy in the early While the tasting room is open daily for 1900s to work on the railroad. Eventually, the Jacuzzi complimentary tastings, wine tours are available brothers would venture into the aviation business, the spa only by appointment. Visit jacuzziwines.com/tastings business and to the delight of visitors to the Sonoma Valley, to view options or call (707) 931-7576 and they will the wine business. gladly help you arrange a guided tour, food and wine The vineyards lie primarily in the Carneros wine region pairings and more. that stretches between Napa and Sonoma. Here, the winery sits on one hundred and ninety acres of lush, fertile land that Don’t Miss boasts rolling green hills and the historic flatlands of the San The Jacuzzi Family museum, a fascinating collection Pablo Bay. Concentrating on Italian wines, Jacuzzi Family of photos and memorabilia documenting this amazing Italian American family’s history. Vineyards produces Barbera, Montepulciano, Moscato Bianco, Dolcetto, Aleatico, Aglianico, Primitivo and historic, hard- to-find varietals such as Lagrein and Vernaccia. There is no Jacuzzi Family Vineyards need for a passport to be transported to the wine regions of Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Italy, just a short drive to Sonoma will provide all the charm, 24724 Arnold Drive, Sonoma scenery and magnificent wines of the country without the time and expense of overseas travel. (707) 931-7575 No visit to the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards is complete www.jacuzziwines.com without a stop by The Olive Press Olive Oil Tasting Room For tours & reservations, visit and Gift Shop. Dedicated to anything and everything having jacuzziwines.com/tastings to do with olives and olive oil, the shop offers samples of the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards’ award-winning olive oil that was Follow them on Facebook: inspired by the rich olive oils of Italy and Southern France. facebook.com/jacuzziwines By Ronda Giangreco and Twitter: @JacuzziWines

Join the Wine Club and receive special offers and discounts on wines. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 67 Meadowcroft Wines The Meadowcroft Wines tasting room is located at the gateway to the Sonoma Valley within a unique collection of shops, art VARIETALS galleries, dining, sculpture trails and architectural gardens called Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Cornerstone Sonoma. Riesling, Rosé, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Sangiovese, The recently redecorated tasting room is big and bright – welcoming you to a wine country tasting room that is truly more Meritage, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and a than just a tasting room. Visitors can taste the award-winning Port-like dessert wine wines at the bar or seated at indoor tables or at outdoor patio tables. There is also the new outdoor “lavender lounge” area complete with comfortable seating, umbrellas and a fire pit. But UPCOMING EVENTS what people really come to Meadowcroft for is the wine. • Bottle Capping & Labeling Party – March 23 There are three labels being poured in the Meadowcroft Wines • April in Carneros wine tasting – April 20-21 tasting room; Meadowcroft Wines, Thomas Henry Wines and Foyt Family Wines (honoring Indy racing legend A.J. Foyt). • Winemaker Dinner – April 25 Winemaker Tom Meadowcroft crafts his wines from estate and • Wine Club Pickup Party – May 11 other sustainably farmed vineyards in Napa and Sonoma. • Wine Club Food & Wine Tasting Parties – The tasting room is preparing events for the spring and summer months. Weather permitting, the weekend Vineyard June 29, July 27 & August 31 Tours are now available each Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. where guests are given a glass of Meadowcroft Pinot Noir and then tour and learn about the vineyard where the wine in Meadowcroft Wines their glass was grown. Another ongoing tasting room treat is the cheese and Open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. chocolate pairings featuring a variety of fresh cheeses procured from some of the best creameries in Sonoma County as well as (707) 934-4090 Meadowcroft’s own chocolate truffles all stunningly presented www.meadowcroftwines.com alongside Meadowcroft wines. So, whether you stop in to enjoy their wines in the tasting www.facebook.com/ room, the patio or even in the gardens, Meadowcroft Wines drinkmeadowcroftwines should be your first stop in Wine Country. Meadowcroft Wines is very family and dog friendly. By Mike Hyland twitter.com/#!/catchthebuzz

Mention ‘Day Trips’ for 2 for 1 wine tasting.

68 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Larson Family Winery With so many wineries to visit in the beautiful wine country, it’s easy to miss the hidden gems. There is one off the beaten OVERALL PHILOSOPHY path that is worth finding: The Larson Family Winery, located Hurry down because, “We drink what we can, at the intersection of Hwy 121 and Broadway, across from the and sell the rest!” Shellville Fire Station. Driving through, you will pass rows of FUN FACTS Chardonnay vines taking in the warm California sun. Nearby, • The Larson Family Winery named their 2010 a redwood barn draws you in to experience Larson’s down to Cabernet Sauvignon “Three Lab Cab” after their earth, fun-loving, hard-working, dog-loving, country lifestyle. wonderful labs, Sunny, Bubby and Pete, the The Larson Family Winery has been in the family since inspiration for this full-bodied wine. 1899. As you walk into their rustic barnyard tasting room, • Larson Family Winery offers 1-liter jug wines: over the wine bar, hangs a hand painted mural, chronicling Wingo White and Sonoma Red. the history of the family and the heritage of the property. This • The Larson Family Winery four-bedroom colorful painting takes you back to the days of the Wild West Civil War-era farm house is now available for from steamboats, rodeos, racehorses and polo ponies to the over-night stays! current winery surrounded by lush green vineyards. With roots in the western region of the Carneros VARIETALS PRODUCED appellation, and 70 acres of vineyard to work with, the Larson Sparkling Brut, Sparkling Rosé, Pinot Grigio, Family Winery produces over 10 delicious varietals. Larson’s Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, award-winning wines are the 2009 Millerick Road meritage Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc. The 2009 Larson Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a Larson Family Winery complex and well-balanced wine revealing aromas of cedars, Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.daily clove, vanilla, coffee and spice. The 2009 3 Lab Cab is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Malbec. These Intersection of Hwy. 121 & Broadway, magnificent wines and more are available only at the winery, across from the Shellville Fire Station on-line or through their wine club. Don’t miss the best of the 23355 Millerick Road, Sonoma best! 1-800-938-WINE (9463) Bring the whole family for some fun in the sun. Pack a picnic, taste the finest wines in Sonoma Valley, play bocce ball, www.larsonfamilywinery.com or take a beautiful walk with your dog along Sonoma Creek, www.facebook.com/larsonfamilywinery you are in for a picture perfect day! By Monica L. Dashwood www.twitter.com/larsonfamilywinery

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Do the Math

One of the questions most asked when it comes to wine is how much of this does it take to make that, and so on. We won’t pretend that it’s simple, but here are some industry statistics that will give a pretty good answer to that query. As with anything agricultural, of course, they are all based on countless variables when it comes to acre yields, but this is a good starting point. The rest of the information varies little if at all. A case of wine includes: …a dozen 750 ml bottles (or 24 half bottles) = or 307.2 ounces total, which comes from 30 pounds of grapes. A single bottle contains: …750 ml of wine which is 25.6 ounces made from about 2.4 pounds of grapes (39 oz.) and is enough for four or maybe five glasses.

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

What does all that information on a wine label mean? The U.S. Department of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms regulates wine labels and requires that information be given in a straightforward XYZ Winery way. Basically, you will want to look for the types of grapes grown, where the grapes are grown and when the grapes were picked. RESERVE • Brand name Dry Creek • Designation for a special wine Sonoma County • Vineyard or appellation known for its grapes might be designated • Location where the grapes used were grown ZINFANDEL • Grape Variety used 2002 • Vintage year in which the grapes were picked • Location where the wine was made and/or bottled Produced and Bottled by (Not to be confused with the area the grapes are grown.) XYZ winery, Healdsburg, California • Alcohol content may be stated or the the label may simply say ALCOHOL 14.6% BY VOLUME "Table Wine”

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local goods eer ations b tainment v oor seating

reakfast runch inner fine dining b b lunch d wine/ full bar outd enter organic/ pet friendly casual upscale reser

GEYSERVILLE Catelli’s – 21047 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville; 707 857-3471 Contemporary American and Italian © © © © © © © © © Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria – 21021 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville; 707 814-0111 Italian © © © © © © Francis Ford Coppola’s Rustic – 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville; 707 857-1462 Italian © © © © © © © © Hoﬀman House – 21712 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville; 707 857-3624 Homemade American © © © © © © © © © © © © ©

HEALDSBURG Cafe Lucia – 235 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 431-1113 Portuguese © © © © © © © Bear Republic Brewing Co. – 345 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 433-2337 Traditional American © © © © © © © © Bistro Ralph – 109 Plaza Street, Healdsburg; 707 433-1380 Contemporary American and French © © © © © © © © © Campo Fina – 330 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 395-4640 Italian © © © © © © Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen – 317 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 431-0330 Contemporary American © © © © © © © © © © Charcuturie – 335 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 431-7213 French © © © © © © Healdsburg Bar & Grill – 245 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 433-3333 Grill © © © © © © © © © Madrona Manor – 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg; 707 433-1542 Contemporary American © © © © © © © Ravenous – 420 Center Street, Healdsburg; 707 431-1302 Californina © © © © © © © © © Spoonbar – 219 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg; 707 433-7222 Mediterranean © © © © © © © © © Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar – 403 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg; 707 433-9191 Seafood © © © © © © © © Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar – 344 Center St, Healdsburg; 707 473-0946 Contemporary American © © © © © ©

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

SANTA ROSA Caﬀe Portoﬁno – 535 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa; 707 578-3096 Italian © © © © © © Equus Restaurant – 101 Fountrain Grove Parkway, Santa Rosa; 707 578-0149 © © © © © © © © Jack and Tony’s – 115 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa; 707 526-4347 Contemporary American © © © © © © © John Ash & Co. Restaurant – 4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa; 707 527-7687 Californian © © © © © © © La Gare – 208 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa; 707 528-4355 French © © © © © Syrah Bistro – 205 5th Street, Santa Rosa; 707 568-4002 Contemporary American and French © © © © © © Zazu Restaurant & Farm – 3535 Guerneville Rd, Santa Rosa; 707 523-4814 Traditional American © © © © ©

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

7www.WineCountryThisWeek.com4 www.WineCountryThisWee71k.com Della Santina’s Located off the historic square, Della Santina’s is a family- owned and operated restaurant that has stood the test of time Enoteca Della Santina Next Door – Sonoma’s Best Wine Bar to become a Sonoma institution. The Della Santina family • More than 300 selections of domestic and name shares a long lineage and history in the Tuscan town international wines at competitive prices of Lucca, Italy. My father Quirico Salvatore Giovanni Della • 30 wines by the glass, customized flights and Santina migrated from Lucca in 1960. specialty beers • Assorted cheeses and panini served daily Residing in the North Beach area of San Francisco, Quirico • Winemaker dinners and educational seminars, became a baker by trade. Later, he was lured to Marin County call for schedule by his uncle Adolph to work in the family restaurant: Marin • Thursdays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. – “Burger Thursdays’’ Joes. After 25 years of successful ownership in a thriving • Sundays, 5 to 9:30 p.m. – “Sausage and Suds” business, he decided to go out on his own in beautiful Both locations are available for private events. Sonoma Valley. Since 1990, we have continued to bring Tuscan country cooking to the wine country using recipes Della Santina’s passed down from my grandmothers Pia Fontana Della The restaurant is open seven days a week Santina and Clary Gambogi Barsotti. for lunch and dinner; In 2008, we opened Enoteca Della Santina, a wine bar and reservations are recommended. retail wine shop specializing in wines from all over the world. 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma Enoteca, translated literally in Italian, means “wine library” – (707) 935-0576 a place for people to enjoy a glass in an Old World ambiance. www.dellasantinas.com 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 Enoteca Della Santina globe looking for value selections that expand our members’ Open late in the evenings, closed Mondays. palates and knowledge. Day to day, the bar is a gathering 127 East Napa Street, Sonoma spot for locals and tourists looking to experience a taste of (707) 938-4200 Sonoma Wine Country living. By Robert Della Santina www.enotecadellasantina.com

Wine Bar – Enoteca Della Santina – is open late most evenings!

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local goods eer b tainment vation oor seating

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SEBASTOPOL

GTO’s Seafood House – 234 South Main Street, Sebastopol; 707 824-9922 Seafood © © © © © ©

Hopmonk Tavern – 230 Petaluma Avenue, Sebastopol; 707 829-7300 Traditional American © © © © © © © © © ©

SONOMA VALLEY

Café Citti – 9049 Highway 12, Kenwood; 704 833-2690 Italian © © © © © © © ©

Cafe La Haye – 140 E Napa Street, Sonoma; 707-935-5994 Contemporary American © © © © © © ©

Centre Du Vin – 480 First Street East, Sonoma; 707 996-9779 French © © © © © © © © ©

Della Santina’s Trattoria – 133 East Napa Street, Sonoma; 707 935-0576 Italian © © © © © © ©

El Dorado Kitchen 405 1st Street West, Sonoma; 707 996-3220 Contemporary American © © © © © © © ©

Fig Cafe & Wine Bar – 13690 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 938-2130 Contemporary American © © © © © © ©

Girl & The Fig – 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma; 707 938-3634 French © © © © © © © © © © Glen Ellen Inn Oyster Grill & Martini Bar & Secret Cottages – 13670 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 996-6409 Contemporary American © © © © © © © ©

Glen Ellen Star – 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen; 707 343-1384 Traditional American © © © © ©

Hopmonk Sonoma – 691 Broadway, Sonoma; 707 935-9100 Traditional American © © © © © © © © © ©

Kenwood Restaurant – 9900 Hwy 12, Kenwood; 707 833-6326 Contemporary American/French © © © © © © © ©

LaSalette Restaurant – 452 First St East, Ste H, Sonoma; 707 938-1927 Portuguese © © © © © © © © ©

Maya Restaurant – 101 East Napa Street, Sonoma; 707 935-3500 Mexican © © © © © © © ©

PETALUMA

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y ranc ines dot ese o W irah oir er v t ztraminer auvignon e S V donna t wur enache albec etit etit angio ther parkling osé or har iesling auvignon Blanc iognier ther abernet F ab S arignane yrah empranillo/ infandel Barbera C C C Gr M Merlot P P Pinot N S S T Primitiv Z O S R P Desser Find Your Favorite Varietals C Ge Pinot Blanc Pinot Gris/ Pinot Grigio R S V O

Alderbrook Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-5987 P24

Ancient Oaks – Santa Rosa, (707-536-1546 P41

Armida Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-2222 P23

B.R. Cohn Winery – Glen Ellen, 707-938-4064 P57

BRYTER Estates – Sonoma, 707-501-8272 P61

Cellars of Sonoma – Santa Rosa, 707-578-1826 P40

Chalk Hill Estate – Healdsburg, 707-657-4837 P30

Charles Creek Vineyard – Sonoma, 707-935-3848 P60

Chateau St. Jean – Kenwood, 1-800-543-7572 P47

Christopher Creek – Healdsburg, 707-433-2001 P25

Cline Cellars – Sonoma, 707-940-4030 P66

D’Argenzio – Santa Rosa, 707-546-2466 P42

De La Montanya – Healdsburg, 707-433-3711 P22

Dry Creek Vineyard – Healdsburg, 707-433-1000 P20

Dutcher Crossing Winery – Healdsburg, 707-431-2700 P14

En Garde – Kenwood, 707-282-9216 P48

Eric Ross Winery – Glen Ellen, 707-939-8525 P54

Family Wineries of Dry Creek Valley – Healdsburg, 888-433-6555 P17

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-6700 P13

Forchini Vineyards & Winery – Healdsburg, 707-431-8886 P15

Fritz Underground Winery – Cloverdale, 1-800-418-9463 P12

Hook & Ladder Winery & Vineyards – Santa Rosa, 707-526-2255 P37

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards – Sonoma, 707-931-7575 P10

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Alderbrook Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-5987 P24

Ancient Oaks – Santa Rosa, (707-536-1546 P41

Armida Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-2222 P23

B.R. Cohn Winery – Glen Ellen, 707-938-4064 P57

BRYTER Estates – Sonoma, 707-501-8272 P61

Cellars of Sonoma – Santa Rosa, 707-578-1826 P40

Chalk Hill Estate – Healdsburg, 707-657-4837 P30

Charles Creek Vineyard – Sonoma, 707-935-3848 P60

Chateau St. Jean – Kenwood, 1-800-543-7572 P47

Christopher Creek – Healdsburg, 707-433-2001 P25

Cline Cellars – Sonoma, 707-940-4030 P66

D’Argenzio – Santa Rosa, 707-546-2466 P42

De La Montanya – Healdsburg, 707-433-3711 P22

Dry Creek Vineyard – Healdsburg, 707-433-1000 P20

Dutcher Crossing Winery – Healdsburg, 707-431-2700 P14

En Garde – Kenwood, 707-282-9216 P48

Eric Ross Winery – Glen Ellen, 707-939-8525 P54

Family Wineries of Dry Creek Valley – Healdsburg, 888-433-6555 P17

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-6700 P13

Forchini Vineyards & Winery – Healdsburg, 707-431-8886 P15

Fritz Underground Winery – Cloverdale, 1-800-418-9463 P12

Hook & Ladder Winery & Vineyards – Santa Rosa, 707-526-2255 P37

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards – Sonoma, 707-931-7575 P10

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 75 y ranc ines dot ese o W irah oir er v t ztraminer auvignon e S V donna t wur enache albec etit etit angio ther parkling osé or Find Your Favorite Varietals har iesling auvignon Blanc iognier ther abernet F ab S arignane yrah empranillo/ infandel Barbera C C C Gr M Merlot P P Pinot N S S T Primitiv Z O S R P Desser C Ge Pinot Blanc Pinot Gris/ Pinot Grigio R S V O

Kenwood Vineyards – Kenwood, 707-833-5891 P50

Kokomo Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-0200 P18

Korbel Champagne Cellars – Guerneville, 707-824-7000 P34

Lancaster Estate – Healdsburg, 707-433-8178 P31

Larson Family – Sonoma, 1-800-938-WINE P69

Ledson Winery & Vineyards – Kenwood, 707-537-3810 P45

Little Vineyards – Glen Ellen, 707-996-2750 P56

Lost Canyon Winery – Santa Rosa, 707-623-9621 P39

Loxton Cellars – Glen Ellen, 707-935-7221 P58

Martin Ray Winery – Santa Rosa, 707-823-2404 P35

Matanzas Creek Winery – Santa Rosa, 1-800-590-6464 P52

Meadowcroft Wines – Sonoma, 707-934-4090 P68

Moondance Cellars – Glen Ellen, 707-823-0880 P53

Mutt Lynch – Healdsburg, 707-942-6180 P26

Rodney Strong Vineyards – Healdsburg, 707-431-1533 P27

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards – Santa Rosa, 1-888-675-WINE P46

Sonoma-Cutrer – Windsor, 707-237-3489 P36

Stephen & Walker Winery – Healdsburg, 707-431-8749 P32

Trattore Estate Wines – Healdsburg, 707-431-7200 P19

Truett Hurst Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-9545 P16

VJB Vineyards & Cellars – Kenwood, 707-833-2300 P49

Valley of the Moon Winery – Glen Ellen, 707-939-4510 P55

Viansa Winery – Sonoma, 707-935-4700 P65

7676 www.WineCountrywww.WineCountryTThisWeek.comhisWeek.com www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 77 y ranc ines dot ese o W irah oir er v t ztraminer auvignon e S V donna t wur enache albec etit etit angio ther parkling osé or Find Your Favorite Varietals har iesling auvignon Blanc iognier ther abernet F ab S arignane yrah empranillo/ infandel Barbera C C C Gr M Merlot P P Pinot N S S T Primitiv Z O S R P Desser C Ge Pinot Blanc Pinot Gris/ Pinot Grigio R S V O

Kenwood Vineyards – Kenwood, 707-833-5891 P50

Kokomo Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-0200 P18

Korbel Champagne Cellars – Guerneville, 707-824-7000 P34

Lancaster Estate – Healdsburg, 707-433-8178 P31

Larson Family – Sonoma, 1-800-938-WINE P69

Ledson Winery & Vineyards – Kenwood, 707-537-3810 P45

Little Vineyards – Glen Ellen, 707-996-2750 P56

Lost Canyon Winery – Santa Rosa, 707-623-9621 P39

Loxton Cellars – Glen Ellen, 707-935-7221 P58

Martin Ray Winery – Santa Rosa, 707-823-2404 P35

Matanzas Creek Winery – Santa Rosa, 1-800-590-6464 P52

Meadowcroft Wines – Sonoma, 707-934-4090 P68

Moondance Cellars – Glen Ellen, 707-823-0880 P53

Mutt Lynch – Healdsburg, 707-942-6180 P26

Rodney Strong Vineyards – Healdsburg, 707-431-1533 P27

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards – Santa Rosa, 1-888-675-WINE P46

Sonoma-Cutrer – Windsor, 707-237-3489 P36

Stephen & Walker Winery – Healdsburg, 707-431-8749 P32

Trattore Estate Wines – Healdsburg, 707-431-7200 P19

Truett Hurst Winery – Healdsburg, 707-433-9545 P16

VJB Vineyards & Cellars – Kenwood, 707-833-2300 P49

Valley of the Moon Winery – Glen Ellen, 707-939-4510 P55

Viansa Winery – Sonoma, 707-935-4700 P65

76 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com wwww.WineCountryThisWeek.comww.WineCountryThisWeek.com 7777 Rockpile

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La Czar Mueller Roadhouse Winery Russian River Wine Co. Hartford Family SONOMA-CUTRER Seghesio 1 R B IV Selby O Russian River VnydsEmtu EstateER Russian Hill Estate Kendall-jackson H R D. Stark at Garagiste Healdsburg E Iron Horse Wine Center M River Road WoodenheadSLUSSER I A Joseph Swan Stephen & Walker Tara Bella Old World Winery N Green Cahill Winery . Martinelli D H Pellegrini MAR Thirty Four North Wine Merchant Dutton Estate K W S R I E G St. Helena Road G MARTIN S Harvest Moon T IN Thumbprint H Valley Sebastopol Vnyd SPR Winery OLIVET W DehlingerRAY Robert Rue Toad Hollow

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Small Vines Freeman & LOST CANYON Sheldon/Krutz

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Deereld RanchKunde LOXTON Coturri Winery Wellington ROBLAR RD. Lasseter Family Mayo Family Benziger Family Talisman Wines

PETALUMA Imagery VA ERIC ROSS LL E Arrowood Y F MOONDANCE CELLARS O R Laurel Glen B.R. COHN D R Bucklin Old Hill Ranch SONOMA PLAZA D LITTLE VINEYARDS . LEDSON CENTRE DU VIN VALLEY OF THE MOON WINERY Adobe Road Petroni Vineyards Envolve Robert Hunter Akoma Zoume/Mountain TerracesEric K James Vineyards GlenLyon Hawkes BODEGA Paint Horse Hanzell Haywood HWY Highway 12 Winery WASHINGTON 12 Roche Sigh Champagne & Sparkling

ORANGE RD. Sojourn Clary Ranch Sonoma Enoteca Bartholomew Park Spann Two Amigos Sonoma Valley Walt Westwood Port Works CHARLES Clarbec CREEK Ravenswood Corda FRATES Adobe Sebastiani Tomales Road STAGE GULCH Parmelee Hill BRYTTER Winery LOVALL VALLEY BONNESS RD BONNESS R2 Wine Co Robledo Buena Vista Bay Gundlach Bundschu 116 Family E NAPA ST 116 NAPA RD 7TH E. Anaba Keller Favero MacRostie Estate Schug 12 8TH E. 101 Bonneau LARSON 121 Kamen FAMILY Tin Barn LAKEVILLE RD. Gloria Ferrer CORNERSTONE SONOMA Gofessel MEADOWCROFT WINES Los Carneros Foyt Family Wines BURNDALEScribe Keating Wines Region Kastania 121 Vineyards Nicholson Homewood CLINE Ranch JACUZZI Winery 1 VIANSA Ram’s Gate TO NAPA 37 RAMAL

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