My friends and I recently returned from a six day trip to San Francisco and Sonoma. We explored the city a bit and then hit the road to enjoy a little wine tasting in Sonoma. While we were there, we used the priority wine pass to save some money. The pass gives you discounts at select wineries such as buy one, get one and free tastings. I would definitely recommend this pass because it’s not only good for wine tasting in Sonoma, but other wine destinations such as Napa, Washington, and Oregon. It’s good for a year from activation so you have plenty of time to use it. But enough about the passport, let’s move on to where you should go to try some wine.
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Where to go Wine Tasting in Sonoma
1. Domaine Carneros
Domaine Carneros technically belongs to the Napa region but it’s close enough to warrant a trip. I recommend trying the sparkling wine flight. It’s only called that because it wasn’t made in Champagne, France which is where bubbles have to be made in order to bear the title champagne. Anyways, definitely give this place a visit.
2. Ledson
Probably my favorite winery we visited. Ledson’s property is gorgeous and the wines are delicious. They have a few different tasting options, and are super helpful when it comes If you can try the port! It’s honestly one of the best things I’ve ever sipped on. After your tasting, visit the marketplace which is where you’ll pick up any bottles you purchase and taste some olive oils and vinegars.
3. Gundelach Bundschu
Another great choice for wine tasting in Sonoma. My favorite here was there rose which was light, refreshing and not too sweet. A great choice for summer sipping. During the summer on Saturdays they have a DJ in the courtyard. They can get pretty busy so book ahead.
4. Chateau St Jean
The have several different tasting options. We did a standard tasting in the Main Tasting Room. However, I think it would be a lot of fun to do the “Unlock the Chateau” tasting which combines wine tasting and an escape room. Check out all their tasting option here.
5. VJB
VJB is a good place to put in the middle of your day. They have a couple of on-site restaurants where you can grab food like wood fired pizzas and paninis.
8 COMMENTS
Josefine
5 years agoThe buildings are SO pretty! It looks like the perfect place to go wine tasting. It’s definitely something I’d love to do when I go to California! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Timpani
5 years ago AUTHORI love the European feel they all have! It’s such a different area you kinda forget you’re in California.
catherinemryan
5 years agoI’ve been wine tasting in Napa and love all the amazing wineries there. I’d love to visit all the wine tasting spots you mention here – especially the one with the bubbly flight!!
Timpani
5 years ago AUTHORI’d like to check out a little of Napa next time. But Yes! Domaine Carneros is a must!
Razena | Tantalisemytastebuds.com
5 years agoIs it weird that I don’t drink alcohol but would love a trip through Sonoma and the Napa valley. Fortunately many wineries have excellent restaurants and other activities like olive oil tastings. The VIP wine pass sounds like an excellent idea and it makes me wonder if our the Cape Winelands has something similar.
Timpani
5 years ago AUTHORNot at all! It’s a beautiful part of California to explore, and there’s tons of other activities to do other than wine tasting.
Lindz
5 years agoI’ve heard so many good things about Sonoma wine tasting! I need to visit myself one day soon!
Timpani
5 years ago AUTHOR10/10 would recommend! It’s such a cute place and the wine is great