Wine, Food, and Natural Beauty Await in California’s Sonoma County

Sonoma County, known for its lush vineyards, farm-to-table cuisine, scenic terrain, and relaxed yet world-class wine culture, entices visitors from around the world. Wine, food, and natural beauty await in California’s Sonoma County.

With more than 425 wineries spread across its million acres of vineyards, Sonoma spoils wine lovers for choice. Swirl and sniff your way through the tasting rooms at vineyards and wineries such as:

Scribe Winery: This boutique winery specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from their sustainably farmed estate vineyard. They offer intimate wine tastings and food pairings.

Martinelli Winery: Family-owned for three generations, Martinelli Winery is considered one of the pioneers of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Their wines display the terroir of their famous Blue Slide Ridge Vineyard.

Hanzell Vineyards: With a history dating back to the 1950s, Hanzell produces elegant Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and other food-friendly wines showcasing Sonoma’s unique vintages.

Iron Horse Vineyards: Specializing in méthode champenoise sparkling wines, Iron Horse is located in the cool Green Valley region ideal for bubblies. Enjoy stunning mountain views and a luxury tasting room housed in a historic timber-framed barn.

Merry Edwards Winery: Pioneering winemaker Merry Edwards consistently earns accolades for her Pinot Noirs that exemplify the varietal. The winery is female-owned and focuses on sustainable practices.

But Sonoma is so much more than just wine country. From fresh seafood plucked from the Pacific to produce grown in the region’s fertile farmland, Sonoma’s hyper-local fare spotlights the incredible riches yielded by land and sea. Must-try restaurants include The Girl and the Fig, known for its cheese-centric dishes, and the battle-tested hole-in-the-wall LaSalette, dishing out Portuguese specialties since 1967.

Outdoorsy types will delight in Sonoma’s varied natural landscapes, spanning redwood forests and wild Pacific coastline to hot springs nestled amid volcanic peaks. Hike in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve or canoe down the Russian River. For wildlife watching, head to the rolling meadows and dramatic seaside cliffs of Bodega Bay.

Culturally, Sonoma merges Northern Californian mellowness with small-town charm. Quaint plazas like Healdsburg’s and Sebastopol’s brim with artisan boutiques, craft breweries, and low-key tasting rooms and cafés.

When the time comes to rest your head, opt for local institution, The Gaige House Inn. A country-style stay more your speed? Try the ultra-bucolic Farmhouse Inn, tucked into 25 pastoral acres.

Wine, food, and natural beauty await in California’s Sonoma County. No matter your travel style, Sonoma County promises to nourish the mind, body, and spirit with its heady blend of wine and cuisine, village vibes, and natural splendor. Laidback wine country is calling.