Wine is a popular drink in Sonoma County, and these 14 wine tasting options will satisfy any taste. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night or just want to enjoy the scenery on your visit, this list has something for everyone!
Sonoma Valley is a region in the North Bay of California, known for its wine. There are many wineries in Sonoma County, and this article will list the 14 most beautiful ones.
You’ll have a hard time picking which wineries to visit in Sonoma County since there are so many gorgeous ones. While all of the wineries in our round-up make good wine, many also have other attractions, such as amazing architecture or history, beautiful gardens, or breathtaking vistas.
The greatest Sonoma wineries are diverse: much as in nearby Napa Valley, you’ll find majestic castles and gorgeous chateaus in Sonoma, but you’ll also discover unapologetically humble enterprises that concentrate on the land and live in peace with their environment. Many wineries in Sonoma are classified as environmentally friendly.
There are hundreds of wineries in Sonoma County to choose from, but you can’t go wrong with any of the Sonoma wineries on our list, particularly if this is your first visit to this wonderful Northern California wine area.
At Ledson Winery, there’s a castle.
The Best Wineries in Sonoma
Even if you aren’t a big wine drinker, several of the wineries in our roundup are worth visiting. Even if we don’t have a wine tasting scheduled, we come to see the gardens in full bloom or to see the autumn colors. (On any given day, we try to restrict tastings to two.)
If you visit without booking a wine tasting or experience, be aware that you may not be able to see all areas of the winery, particularly the interiors. When open, most grounds and gardens are free to view.
A vista that transports you to Tuscany!
Touring local vineyards should surely be on your schedule if you are considering a vacation to Sonoma County, since it is one of California’s best wine areas. But there are plenty of other fun things to do in Sonoma.
If you’d prefer take a tour rather than do it alone, try this private trip, which enables you to personalize your schedule to include some of the wineries on our list. Now is the time to book this tour!
So, here are the greatest Sonoma wineries to visit if you’re planning a trip to the area!
Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery is a winery and vineyard in the Ferrari-Carano family (Healdsburg)
Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery is a must-see destination in Dry Creek Valley, just outside of Healdsburg, whether you appreciate wine, stunning gardens, or both.
Villa Fiore, the winery structure, is pink and has a lovely terrace with views of the estate vines, an attractive driveway, and a striking water feature in front of the main door.
Ferrari-pink Carano’s home is gorgeous!
The gardens of Ferrari-Carano, however, are without a doubt the main attraction. We would travel to Ferrari-Carano merely to meander around the beautiful gardens, soaking in the color from the blooming flowers and relaxing in the green tranquil atmosphere provided by mature trees and groomed grassy spaces.
Allow plenty of time to meander through the twisting small lanes. The beauty is enhanced by fish ponds, little bridges, and small waterfalls. In the spring, hundreds of tulips and daffodils bloom in a spectacular show.
The patio, which offers wine tastings, overlooks a long road bordered with slim cypress trees typical of Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia. The wine shop is located within the home, just off the patio, where you may purchase some of their fumé blanc or chardonnay. Their dessert wines are also excellent!
On the beautiful patio, have a taste!
By appointment, limited release and reserve wine tastings are held in the cellar basement. Sunday brunch is also available, but reservations are required. Wine tastings on the terrace are available by appointment every day.
Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery has further information.
Francis Ford Coppola Winery is a winery owned by Francis Ford Coppola (Geyserville)
Francis Ford Coppola Winery, another legendary Sonoma County winery, is more than simply about the wine. It’s a fantastic family destination with delicious meals and exciting activities. You won’t want to leave, so give yourself plenty of time!
At Francis Ford Coppola Winery, you can peruse a vast collection of movie memorabilia in the Movie Gallery, relax by two wonderful pools (or splash about in the water), and dine at Rustic, which serves fresh foods from the property’s garden. There are also four bocce courts and various board games to enjoy.
In the Movie Museum, have a look at movie artifacts!
For movie fans, the Movie Museum is a must-see. Take a look at Don Corleone’s desk from The Godfather, the deep red Tucker automobile from Tucker: The Man and His Dream, Robert Duvall’s cap and boots from Apocalypse Now, and Coppola’s many Oscars.
The two wonderful pools are surrounded by reclining chairs with views of the nearby vineyards. For changing and showering, you may hire a private cabin for the day. If you go on a hot day, the pools are extremely appealing!
At Rustic, we had lunch, and our pizzas were made with fresh ingredients at their height of taste. The menu includes traditional Italian dishes as well as specialties from across the globe. Don’t miss the incredible selection of Italian olive oil tins. The Pool Cafe serves a variety of pizzas and sandwiches.
Wine tastings are available by appointment only, and the vineyard also holds special events, so check to see what’s happening when you want to visit: bookings are required.
Francis Ford Coppola Winery has further information.
Winery Chateau St. Jean (Kenwood)
Chateau St. Jean is recognized for its red blends, and its flagship wine, Cinq Cepages, is often praised by wine writers. Even if you aren’t a wine connoisseur, Chateau St. Jean is a magnificent Sonoma County wine estate with excellent picture opportunities.
With its majestic tower, the 1920s castle is clearly the main attraction. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has recognized the beautiful structure, which was restored in the 1970s. If you appreciate ancient settings, you may visit the inside or just enjoy it from the grounds.
Taking a stroll around the grounds of Chateau St. Jean
For a beautiful show, the chateau’s gardens combine a variety of flora with sculptures, pots of different shapes and sizes, and water elements. Roses were in bloom when we went in the summer, providing brilliant color in the midst of soothing greenery.
Picnic tables in the rear provide views of redwoods and vineyards. Bocce courts let you to enjoy the outdoors while participating in a taste with friends or family. The redwood woodland is breathtaking.
Castle St. Jean provides a variety of sampling opportunities (mainly by appointment) that highlight the ancient chateau, rich gardens, and lovely surroundings. From Friday through Sunday, food and wine pairings are available.
Chateau St. Jean Winery has further information.
Jordan Winery is a winery in Jordan, Utah (Healdsburg)
Allow plenty of time to visit Jordan Winery, which is situated a few miles north of Healdsburg and is renowned for its fantastic winery experiences. Opt for a tasting experience that includes a tour of the lovely vineyards. The experiences, which are only accessible by appointment, are widely regarded as among the greatest in the nation.
Jordan Winery has a lovely tree-lined road.
The 3-hour estate tour by car enables you to explore the vineyards and open landscapes and is beautiful at any time of year. While admiring the lovely Sonoma County landscape, you will enjoy food and wine pairings. You’ll even get to sample some estate olive oil!
If you don’t have three hours to spare, don’t worry. In season, choose between a hilltop sampling or a shorter strolling tour and tasting. You will not be disappointed in whichever manner you choose to experience Jordan Winery’s gorgeous setting and chateau.
The castle, which is enveloped in greenery, serves as the estate’s focal point and provides excellent picture opportunities, particularly during the spring and summer, when flowers are in bloom, and in the autumn, when vines and leaves on trees change color. The road is especially picturesque, since it is bordered with mature trees.
Jordan Winery’s chateau.
Jordan Winery conducts unique events throughout the year, so check their website ahead of time if you love vineyard trekking or intend to come around the holidays.
Jordan Vineyard & Winery has more information.
Scribe Winery is a winery located in the town of Scri (Sonoma)
Scribe Winery, located only a few miles from historic Sonoma Plaza in Southern Sonoma County, is a favorite day trip destination for travelers from San Francisco and the San Francisco Bay Area. It should, however, be on your itinerary if you are visiting Sonoma County for a longer period of time.
Scribe Winery’s hacienda is the stuff of picture postcards. The elegant 1920s structure, which has been wonderfully refurbished, is nestled among vineyards and surrounded by towering palm trees. The site is dotted with olive trees, as well as nut and fruit plants. It’s hard to think that not long ago, the land was a run-down turkey farm!
Scribe Winery’s hacienda.
Scribe has a significantly more relaxed atmosphere than many of the vineyards in Napa and Sonoma. Wine tastings take place on picnic tables on the patio or on blankets stretched out on the grass, with children playing and dogs frolicking nearby.
Although the wines at Scribe Winery are excellent (they are recognized for their pinot noir and chardonnay, but they also produce other varietals), the cuisine is a significant attraction. Dinners at the hacienda, which are held in communal sitting, are much anticipated. The onsite garden provides vegetables and herbs that are included in Scribe’s menu.
Scribe Winery has further information.
Matanzas Creek Winery is a winery in Matanzas, Florida (Santa Rosa)
Matanzas Creek Winery is situated in Santa Rosa and is known for its sauvignon blanc and merlot wines. Although the winery should be on your Sonoma County itinerary regardless of when you visit, the lavender field is in full bloom in June, making for a magnificent sight.
In June, come to Matanzas Creek to see the lavender blossom!
Allow plenty of time to appreciate the sea of purple at Matanzas Creek’s tiered lavender gardens, which are a feast for the eyes and scent. You can also buy lavender products at the winery’s lavender market: the lavender cultivated here is organic, and you’ll discover bath and beauty products for men and women, as well as lavender-themed home goods.
Even without the lavender field, Matanzas Creek offers a lovely location, with vistas of rolling vineyards and tastings under the shade of large trees. Choose a picnic sampling to enjoy the outdoors, particularly if the weather is great.
You may also visit Matanzas to see the koi pond, various gardens, and a wisteria-covered arbor, which is particularly lovely while in bloom. If you want to play bocce ball with your family or friends, there are bocce ball courts available.
For tastings and tours to the lavender garden, appointments are necessary.
Matanzas Creek Winery has further information.
Saint Francis Winery is a winery in Saint Francis, California (Santa Rosa)
The gorgeous mission-style bell tower is the first thing you see as you approach Saint Francis Winery. We were just in time to hear the bell chime sonorously at noon as it rang the hour.
Saint Francis Winery’s magnificent bell tower!
The building’s design is stunning, with a lovely tiled water feature and a little garden with a statue of St. Francis. This vineyard is a favorite wedding destination in Sonoma County, and with good reason: it’s really romantic!
A lush grass expanse is bordered with flowers in season as you go through the tunnel to the rear. Large wind spinners and lights add to the ambiance, while the terrace and grassy lawn provide views of one of the estate vineyards. If you want to stretch your legs and take in the scenery, you may go on a vineyard walk here.
At Saint Francis Winery, the wind spinners are eye-catching.
From veranda sampling to trolley excursions, Saint Francis Winery & Vineyards has something for everyone. If you have the time, the seasonal wine and food pairing meal, which is served inside, pairs the finest of Sonoma farm goods with the winery’s award-winning wines: it’s well worth the money.
Several of Saint Francis’ wines are fruit-forward and full-bodied. We liked the cabernet sauvignon and the zinfandel from ancient vineyards. We had a taxi that tasted like blackberries and bittersweet chocolate: delicious!
All tastings and activities at Saint Francis Winery need reservations at this time.
Saint Francis Winery & Vineyards has more information.
Ledson Winery & Vineyards is a winery and vineyard in Ledson, California (Kenwood)
Ledson Winery is the place to go if you’re seeking for a majestic wine castle in Sonoma County. The 16,000-square-foot Gothic, French-Normandy edifice has turrets, balconies, a slate tile roof, and an attractive brick facade.
From the rear, the castle at Ledson Winery.
The castle was originally constructed as a family dwelling for Steve Ledson, but due to its lack of seclusion, it was converted to a vineyard. The castle is encircled by lovely gardens. The front grounds are formal, with a show-stopping fountain as the focal point. When we arrived in the summer, the rose gardens were in full bloom.
With majestic staircases and fireplaces, cathedral windows, and various wine bars, the inside is just as beautiful. The coffered ceilings are a work of art. Make a point of visiting the Marketplace, where you may purchase exquisite wines and snacks.
There is a lot of wood in the inside of the Ledson Winery Castle.
Picnic tables at the rear of the winery, which face out into the gorgeous vineyard and countryside, provide a more relaxed wine tasting experience as well as a spot to hang out if you’re coming with kids.
Despite the fact that Ledson began with merlot, it now produces a broad range of wines, including chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir, zinfandel, petite syrah, and sangiovese.
Ledson Winery provides a number of different tasting options, some of which need reservations.
Ledson Winery & Vineyards has more information.
Korbel Winery is a family-owned and operated winery located (Guerneville)
Korbel California Champagne is popular not just during presidential inaugurations, but also at weddings, special brunches, and New Year’s Eve toasts.
If you’re planning a trip to the vineyards of Sonoma County, you can now visit Korbel Winery in Guerneville and witness how it’s created! Korbel Winery is a must-see Russian River winery located along picturesque River Road.
Korbel Winery is located on picturesque River Road in Guerneville.
The vineyard is surrounded by towering redwoods, and even if you’re not a lover of sparkling wine, it’s a terrific location to stop and get up close to the massive trees. The parking lot and the winery are surrounded by redwoods.
Korbel Winery’s towering redwoods
If you come during bloom season, the ancient rose garden is a must-see. In formal beds flanked by box hedges, several types are on display. Redwoods and other mature trees surround the yard. If you wish to learn more about the history of the area, there is also a museum on site.
Korbel’s deli is well-known, so if you’re in town for lunch, be sure to taste some of their specialties! Here, we had a cheese melt and grilled beef tri-tip sandwiches. You may also get take-out meals from the deli and market. Outdoor samples of sparkling wines are available.
Korbel Winery has further information.
Truett Hurst Winery is a winery in Truett Hurst, California (Healdsburg)
One of our favorite things to do in Healdsburg is go around Truett Hurst’s biodynamic gardens. Truett Hurst Winery, located in Dry Creek Valley just outside of town, is lovely, unpretentious, and laid-back, making a visit here a fantastic Northern California experience.
Truett Hurst has a great relaxed vibe!
If you like gardening, whether it’s flowers, herbs, or veggies, you’ll want to take a tour of Truett Hurst’s five acres of gardens. We come in the summer to see the richness on the plants and to marvel at the color offered by sunflowers and amaranth.
It’s a lot of joy to see the farm animals at Truett Hurst. The goats, in particular, are a lot of fun and will pose for pictures! There are also sheep and chicks. Dry Creek, which offers a haven for juvenile chinook, coho, and steelhead, is certainly worth a visit.
Truett Hurst is known for its zinfandel, but they also make petite sirah and red mixes. The winery provides a variety of sampling options in gorgeous outdoor settings, including the patio and picnic tables on the grass. You may also bring a picnic to enjoy in the olive grove, which is more private.
Truett Hurst Winery has further information.
Cline Family Cellars is a winery owned by the Cline family (Sonoma)
Cline Cellars, a certified California sustainable winery, utilizes a big herd of sheep and goats to eat weeds in the vines. Cline is a terrific site to learn about sustainable farming, from composting to cover crops and solar energy, and you can meet the two miniature donkeys that live there.
Summer at Cline Family Cellars
Cline Cellars is a short drive from San Francisco or the SF Bay Area, and is located in the Carneros section of Sonoma Valley. Roses of all hues line the driveway in the summer, providing for a lovely entry. On the site, there are around 5,000 rose bushes.
If you like roses, we suggest going during bloom season, which in California is luckily rather long!
Cline Cellars’ roses are in full bloom.
The surroundings of Cline Cellars are very stunning. On the property, there are five spring-fed ponds, lovely willow trees and other mature plants, and, of course, the luxuriant grapes. The winery’s structure is beautiful.
Cline Cellars provides outside tastings so you can take in the scenery as well as the wine. Reservations are not necessary, however they are strongly encouraged.
Cline Cellars has further information.
Iron Horse Vineyards is a winery located in the town of Iron (Sebastopol)
Iron Horse is known for its sparkling wines, but the beautiful vistas from the outdoor tasting facility are also worth seeing. The vistas of Sonoma County’s rolling hills, which are covered with luscious vines, are spectacular, particularly in the summer and autumn.
View from the Iron Horse Vineyards tasting patio
The vineyard is situated in Green Valley, part of the Russian River Valley, at the end of a meandering, tree-lined one-lane road. It’s a lovely drive. However, the final stretch was not paved when we went, and it may be a bit rough if you are driving a sedan, particularly if you travel during California’s wet season in the winter or early spring.
To go to the tasting bar, see the rustic barn-style structures and wander the terrace. On clear days, Mount St. Helena may be seen in the distance!
Iron Horse also makes chardonnays and pinot noirs, in addition to sparkling wines. The sparkling wines created in the champagne manner, on the other hand, are a must-try. Reservations must be made in advance.
Pro tip: When visiting Iron Horse Vineyards, be sure to leave time to explore lovely Sebastopol, which offers everything from souvenir shopping to trash art and an experimental farm.
Iron Horse Vineyards has further information.
Buena Vista Winery is a winery in Buena Vista, California (Sonoma)
Buena Vista Winery, a California Historic Landmark, was established in 1857 by Agoston Haraszthy de Mokesa, a Hungarian immigrant who came to California in pursuit of gold. The “Count,” as he was nicknamed, was recognized for experimenting with new viticulture methods and procedures.
Buena Vista is a Sonoma winery with a long history.
The property went to the Johnsons after his death, who constructed a beautiful residence on the grounds but were not interested in producing wine. However, the historic winery and press house were preserved!
Boisset Family Estates purchased historic Buena Vista in 2011, with the goal of restoring and expanding on the Count’s legacy. The Champagne Cellar has been completely refurbished, and the grounds are very stunning (and home to many informational signboards).
A number of tastings are available in Buena Vista. A sampling may be done in the ancient Press House, built in 1862, in one of the caverns, or outside. You may see the restored Champagne Cellar as part of a tasting and tour package.
Consider taking a segway tour from historic Sonoma Plaza for a fun and energetic experience. A picnic lunch is included in the highly rated small-group trip. Now is the time to book this tour!
Buena Vista Winery has further information.
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards are a collection of caves and vineyards owned by Gloria Ferrer (Sonoma)
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards is a well-known sparkling wine producer in Sonoma County. The vineyard is conveniently situated in the Carneros section of the county, making it an easy day excursion from the San Francisco Bay Area. It is the first winery in Los Carneros to produce sparkling wine.
Gloria Ferrer’s vineyard structure is beautiful!
In the 1980s, the Ferrers moved to Carneros from Barcelona, Spain. With decades of Spanish sparkling wine expertise, they planted pinot noir and chardonnay and began creating sparkling wine.
The winery itself is exquisite, and the grounds are lovely, with mature trees and flowers in bloom over the season. The vineyard provides a number of different experiences and tastings, many of which must be scheduled ahead of time.
On select weekdays, an outdoor sampling option enables you to taste while taking in spectacular sweeping vistas of the Carneros area.
The terrace has a panoramic view of Carneros.
Another alternative is to have lunch on the terrace, which offers spectacular views and a three-course meal with local seasonal foods. There are a variety of additional food and wine combinations to try.
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards has more information.
Map of the Best Wineries in Sonoma County
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Sonoma County is a county in the U.S. state of California, and it’s home to some of the most beautiful wineries in the world. Here are the 14 most beautiful wineries in Sonoma County, California. Reference: best small wineries in sonoma.
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