Many vineyards, wineries, and tasting rooms dot the landscape of the rich earth of Sonoma Valley. Due to the soil diversities and range of climates, many varieties of grapes can be grown in the region, which allows for vintners of all ages and experiences to create and produce their own wines. When visiting Sonoma Valley, it’s important to enjoy at least one unforgettable wine tasting experience. The following unique wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms will undoubtedly give you lasting memories for years to come.
- B.R. Cohn
Located in an area of Sonoma called Olive Hill, B.R. Cohn established a winery around his very own nostalgic, yet classic 1920s era home, the same home in which he raised his family. The Olive Hill area is dotted by natural underground hot springs that create a very specific climate for growing, affecting the taste of grapes and olives, and therefore wines and oils. Offering daily visits by appointment between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. for only $20 per person, Cohn’s vineyard is a personal and affordable stop on any budget. This vineyard will offer you an unforgettable and unique wine tasting experience on your trek through California wine country.
- Ravenswood
If you’re a fan of the Zinfandel wine variety, then stop by Ravenswood to sample one of their bold and colorful combinations. Proud of their motto “No Wimpy Wines”, Ravenswood produces many flavorful types of the classic beverage, but focuses on the lesser known heritage of the Zinfandel grape. Founded in 1976 by Joel Peterson, patience, hard work and time afforded him to finally purchase land in Sonoma Valley in 1991. Since then, Ravenswood has been a popular destination for wine tasting in Sonoma. They offer daily tastings until 4:30 p.m. as well as tours and barrel tastings. You can also create your own wine at one of their Blending Seminars and take home a very personal souvenir!
- Jacuzzi Family Vineyards
Indeed the namesake of the well-known Jacuzzi hot tubs popular in the U.S., this family has been producing wine since before the popular spa equipment, since 1936 to be exact. Today, the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards are said to be the only remaining vineyards in Sonoma Valley that offer complimentary wine tasting. Not only do they offer free tasting of up to 5 wines, but no reservations are required for less than 6 people and the tasting room is open 7 days a week. If you’re looking for more than the usual complimentary tastings, the Jacuzzi’s also offer private cheese and chocolate pairings, as well as tastings of their homemade olive oils, options ranging from only $15 to $60. These are the reasons the Jacuzzi Family Vineyard is one of the most popular wine tasting experiences in Sonoma Valley.
- WALT Wines
Vintner Kathryn Walt Hall commemorates her parent’s love of vineyard farming at this small, charming Sonoma winery and tasting room. Focusing only on Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, WALT Wines are full-flavored, soulful and sourced from four nearby appellations: Santa Rita Hills, Anderson Valley, Sonoma County, and Willamette Valley. For just $20 per person, you can sample one Chardonnay and four Pinot Noirs from the WALT library in a quaint home located directly on the Sonoma Plaza. Don’t miss out on this intimate Sonoma wine tasting experience.
- SIGH
The quote on the homepage of this popular tasting room’s website reads, “The sound of the cork escaping from a bottle of Champagne should mimic the SIGH of a contented woman.” Instantly, you know that this establishment is not lacking in personality. Referred to as a “bubble bar”, SIGH serves up sparkling wines and Champagnes by glass, flight, or bottle. They will also teach you how to open a champagne bottle, also known as sabrage. If you’re looking for an interesting alternative to the vineyard tours and wine sampling, SIGH bubble bar will not leave you disappointed.
