Best Sonoma Wineries for First-Time Visitors.
Sonoma County wineries are anticipating a new beginning with the recent easing of pandemic restrictions. So, with spring around the corner and things looking up (fingers crossed they stay that way), this is a great time to explore vineyards, tasting rooms and winery patios at some of the more than 425 wineries in Sonoma County. Here is a short list of the ones that are close to the town of Sonoma:
Buena Vista for a taste of history:
Founded in 1857 by Agoston Haraszthy, Buena Vista Winery is the second-oldest winery in California and a worthwhile destination for history buffs. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the winery is currently owned by the Boisset Collection and underwent a renovation in 2012. Choose the tour and you’ll catch a glimpse of the renovated Champagne Cellars and historic wine caves, followed by a wine flight in the Press House or outdoor courtyard. The Wine Tool Museum is slated to reopen this summer. Tastings from $25. Open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday; and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, 800-926-1266
Gundlach Bundsch – Go for the day
Gundlach Bundschu, Sonoma: Established in 1858, Gundlach Bundschu is one of the oldest family-owned wineries in California, with a sprawling 320-acre property at the intersection of four appellations: Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Coast, Carneros and Napa Valley. Today, the winery combines tastings of their sustainable, small-lot, coastal-influenced wines with a laid-back vibe that encourages extended lounging. Don’t worry: You can buy prepared sandwiches, salads, charcuterie boards and other treats, so you won’t go hungry.Wine cave and vineyard tours are available, too. Before you go, check their events calendar for upcoming live music performances held in their outdoor amphitheater. Tastings from $40. Open 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily; reservations required.
See more about Gundlach Bundschu
This story is an excerpt taken from “Best Sonoma Wineries for First-Time Visitors, 2022 Edition” published in Sonoma Magazine, March 2022. It was written by Sarah Doyle. For the full story, see here:
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