Begin your journey to California Wine Country by flying into San Francisco. Consider staying here for a night or a few before exploring the Sonoma wine and Napa wine regions.
San Francisco (optional)
Fisherman's Wharf
One of the busiest and well known tourist attractions in the western United States, Fisherman's Wharf is best known for being the location of Pier 39, the Cannery Shopping Center, Ghirardelli Square, a Ripley's Believe it or Not museum, the Musée Mécanique, Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.
Seafood restaurants are aplenty in the area. Some include the floating Forbes Island restaurant[3] at Pier 39 to stands that serve fresh seafood, most notably Dungeness crab and clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl. Some of the restaurants, including Fishermen's Grotto, Pompei's Grotto and Alioto's, go back for three generations of the same family ownership. Other restaurants include chains like Joe's Crab Shack and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. The area also has an In-N-Out Burger; local business leaders said they opposed every other fast food chain except In-N-Out, because they wanted to maintain the flavor of family-owned, decades-old businesses in the area, with one saying locals would ordinarily "be up in arms about a fast-food operation coming to Fisherman's Wharf," but the family-owned In-N-Out "is different."
Other attractions in Fisherman's Wharf area are the Hyde Street Pier (part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park), the USS Pampanito, a decommissioned World War II era submarine, and the Balclutha, a 19th-century cargo ship. Nearby Pier 45 has a chapel in memory of the "Lost Fishermen" of San Francisco and Northern California.
There is a sea lion colony next to Pier 39. They "took-up" residence months before the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. The sea lions lie on wooden docks that were originally used for docking boats.
One of the city's most popular figures is a harmless but controversial resident of Fisherman's Wharf called the World Famous Bushman, a local street performer who sits behind some branches and startles people who walk by. He has been a permanent entertainer in the Fisherman's Wharf area for the past 30 years and has gained a fair amount of notoriety among the locals and tourists that have been warned about him.
Click here for more information
Seafood restaurants are aplenty in the area. Some include the floating Forbes Island restaurant[3] at Pier 39 to stands that serve fresh seafood, most notably Dungeness crab and clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl. Some of the restaurants, including Fishermen's Grotto, Pompei's Grotto and Alioto's, go back for three generations of the same family ownership. Other restaurants include chains like Joe's Crab Shack and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. The area also has an In-N-Out Burger; local business leaders said they opposed every other fast food chain except In-N-Out, because they wanted to maintain the flavor of family-owned, decades-old businesses in the area, with one saying locals would ordinarily "be up in arms about a fast-food operation coming to Fisherman's Wharf," but the family-owned In-N-Out "is different."
Other attractions in Fisherman's Wharf area are the Hyde Street Pier (part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park), the USS Pampanito, a decommissioned World War II era submarine, and the Balclutha, a 19th-century cargo ship. Nearby Pier 45 has a chapel in memory of the "Lost Fishermen" of San Francisco and Northern California.
There is a sea lion colony next to Pier 39. They "took-up" residence months before the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. The sea lions lie on wooden docks that were originally used for docking boats.
One of the city's most popular figures is a harmless but controversial resident of Fisherman's Wharf called the World Famous Bushman, a local street performer who sits behind some branches and startles people who walk by. He has been a permanent entertainer in the Fisherman's Wharf area for the past 30 years and has gained a fair amount of notoriety among the locals and tourists that have been warned about him.
Click here for more information
North Beach
North Beach is a neighborhood in the northeast of San Francisco adjacent to Chinatown. The neighborhood is San Francisco's "Little Italy", and has historically been home to a large Italian American population. It is still home to many Italian restaurants today, though many other ethnic groups currently live in the neighborhood. It was also the historic center of the beatnik subculture. Today, North Beach is one of San Francisco's main nightlife districts as well as a residential neighborhood populated by a mix of young urban professionals, families and Chinese immigrants part of the adjacent Chinatown.
The American Planning Association (APA) has named North Beach as one of ten "Great Neighborhoods in America".
Click here for more information
The American Planning Association (APA) has named North Beach as one of ten "Great Neighborhoods in America".
Click here for more information
Chinatown
The Chinatown centered on Grant Avenue and Stockton Street in San Francisco, California, is the oldest Chinatown in North America and the largest Chinese enclave outside Asia. It is the oldest of the four notable Chinatowns in the city. Since its establishment in 1848, it has been highly important and influential in the history and culture of ethnic Chinese immigrants in North America. Chinatown is an enclave that continues to retain its own customs, languages, places of worship, social clubs, and identity. There are two hospitals, numerous parks and squares, a post office, and other infrastructure. While recent immigrants and the elderly choose to live in here because of the availability of affordable housing and their familiarity with the culture, the place is also a major tourist attraction, drawing more visitors annually than the Golden Gate Bridge.
Click here for more information
Click here for more information
Sonoma
Sonoma is the southwestern county and largest producer of California’s Wine Country region, which also includes Napa, Mendocino, and Lake counties. It possesses thirteen approved American Viticultural Areas and over 250 wineries.
West of the Napa Valley and bordering on the Pacific, Sonoma County is an area full of California history, spectacular scenery and excellent wine. Sonoma is a younger wine region than Napa, and many visitors take note of the more laid-back feel created by the family-owned wineries. Sonoma County begins 30 mi/50 km north of San Francisco.
Click here for more information
I like Sonoma as it features many boutique wineries with well crafted wine that you won't find back home in stores.
Matt's Picks
Buena Vista: One of the oldest wineries in the region. Ask them if you can check out the bubble room.
Gloria Ferrer: Great Champagne tasting!
Cornerstone: Across the street from Gloria Ferrer, Cornerstone features some unique art installations, a few shops, and a couple of wine tasting rooms.
Chateau St. Jean: I love their cab.
Experiences
West of the Napa Valley and bordering on the Pacific, Sonoma County is an area full of California history, spectacular scenery and excellent wine. Sonoma is a younger wine region than Napa, and many visitors take note of the more laid-back feel created by the family-owned wineries. Sonoma County begins 30 mi/50 km north of San Francisco.
Click here for more information
I like Sonoma as it features many boutique wineries with well crafted wine that you won't find back home in stores.
Matt's Picks
Buena Vista: One of the oldest wineries in the region. Ask them if you can check out the bubble room.
Gloria Ferrer: Great Champagne tasting!
Cornerstone: Across the street from Gloria Ferrer, Cornerstone features some unique art installations, a few shops, and a couple of wine tasting rooms.
Chateau St. Jean: I love their cab.
Experiences
- The Wine Carriage is a wine tasting experience via Horse & Carriage. You'll visit Hanna, Alexander Valley Vineyards, and SodaRock.
- The Wine Trolley is another interesting way to go wine tasting. They will take to you four boutique wineries.
- Consider visiting Healdsburg which is a quaint town in Sonoma County.
- Santa Rosa is another town in Sonoma County worth visiting that features a Safari with Giraffes, Rhino's, Ostrich, Cape Buffalo, and other African animals.
- Chocolate tasting and tour at Volo Chocolate by appointment only.
Napa
One of California's two major wine regions (the other being the Sonoma Valley in neighboring Sonoma County), the Napa Valley is among the most colorful getaways in California, combining fine wines, extraordinary natural beauty, rich history, and fabulous lodgings and dining.
Click here for more information
In Napa you'll find a lot of the large estate wineries. These are the wineries you're probably already familiar with and drink at home. You'll want to visit the large estate wineries during the week and stay away on the weekends as it can get very crowded.
Take a closer look and you'll find some really cool smaller boutique wineries too.
Matt's Picks
Popular Wineries
Castle Winery: The most beautiful wineries in Napa Valley simply must start with the most epic Castello Di Amorosa, the only authentic medieval (13th-century) Italian Tuscan castle and winery built in America, officially lowered its drawbridge for business in April 2007. Castello di Amorosa is nestled in the western hills on 171 acres just minutes south of The Napa Valley town of Calistoga.
The Castello has evolved to include over 136,000 square feet, including 107 rooms (90 of which are devoted to winemaking and wine storage); an enormous Great Hall with 2-story replica Tuscan frescoes painted by Italian artists and a 500-year old fireplace; 8,000 tons of hand-chiseled stones; 8 levels (4 above ground and 4 below); a drawbridge, dungeon and torture chamber; medieval church; and arguably the single most impressive wine barrel room in the U.S., with ancient Roman cross-vaulted ceilings.
Ruthorford Hill: Rutherford Hill is a larger winery featuring cave tours. They store their wine in a cave for fermenting so it was really fun to visit. The tasting hosts were friendly and talkative and poured a good glass of wine. Public cave tours are available daily at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm Monday to Friday and 11:00 am, 12:30 pm, 2:00 pm and 3:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday. The exterior of the winery includes a number of shady picnic areas in groves of trees and a large shaded courtyard. With typical Napa temperatures - this is one comfortable place to visit.
Robert Mondavi: Robert Mondavi established his namesake winery in 1966 with a vision to create Napa Valley wines that would stand in the company of the world's finest. He chose To Kalon Vineyard in the heart of the Napa Valley as the home for Robert Mondavi Winery. This first-growth vineyard, located in Oakville, California, is renowned for producing some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the world, as well as for its Sauvignon Blanc grapes, from which Mr. Mondavi crafted his signature wine, Fumé Blanc.
Two tasting rooms feature the winery's limited production and reserve wines by the glass and also by the flight and gives visitors the opportunity to discuss wines with very knowledgeable wine educators. Also on view is the permanent art collection throughout the winery grounds.
Opus One: Naming a winery Opus One sets some seriously high expectations. A musical term that comes from the Latin oper, Opus One is attributed to a composition generally considered to be a composer’s first masterpiece. Launched in 1979, when interest in Napa winemaking was still nascent, Opus One is an ambitious joint venture between two of the world’s most esteemed winemaking figures. It achieved near-overnight critical acclaim, matching the lofty aspirations of its name. Nearly 40 years on, Opus One remains one of the most sought-after bottlings in Napa Valley.
Beringer: Beringer Vineyards is a large winery in St. Helena, California. Founded in 1876, Beringer Vineyards is "the oldest continuously operating winery in the Napa Valley", and is listed under both the National Register of Historical Places and as a California Historical Landmark.
Grgich Hills: Grgich Hills offers a cornucopia of experiences for visitors, including a variety of tours. Still, there’s something to be said for their decidedly old-school tasting bar. With a wide variety of menus available, there’s a tasting for basically every palate. Their Cabernet Sauvignon vertical offers visitors to Napa the rare opportunity to taste six vintages back-to-back, allowing you to grasp the nuances of each year. During crush season they often offer a grape stomping experience. Don’t miss the Chardonnay and their dessert wine “Violetta”.
Tamber Bey: Tamber Bey is located at Sundance Ranch, an equestrian facility for performance horses, and the tasting room is tucked in the spectacular original barn clubhouse designed by Napa Valley architect Howard Backen. Seriously, it’s smack in the middle of the training grounds, amidst the paddocks and opening onto a courtyard surrounded by the palace-worthy 16-stall barn. There’s horse art on the wine labels, and horse art as a mural overlooking the rich wood-paneled tasting room. And, if you’re lucky, when you sit on the lushly landscaped patio there will be some horses for you to watch in the posh stalls framing the courtyard. Merlin, the black horse usually found in the pasture, is always happy to pose for photographs. Pack a few carrots for him in your picnic.
Unique Boutique Wineries
Rarecat
Combining American sensibility and love of the land with a Bordeaux palate and winemaking education rooted in old world traditions. The blending of these two worlds has define a RARECAT wine style based on elegance and balance. RARECAT Wines is built on the philosophy of a Joie de Vivre life. A joy of everything that connects people at the table over a glass of wine. Connecting to important things in life, and experiencing joy with the people you love, cherish, and want to meet!
Fortunati
Truly an artisanal winery, the Luchtel's are very much hands-on and intimately involved with all aspects of their label. Nestled amongst their vines, they oversee each row from their home, and each vine as they walk their dogs. Ellen is often pouring wines for guests, and Gary may drop in to visit, too. Each bottle is a personal expression of their passion for fine wines, carefully tended and crafted with the utmost precision to display each varietal's characteristics. Whether the grapes are estate grown on the ten-acres of the Fortunati Vineyards Estate, or are sourced from a carefully selected grower, the diversity and range of wines Fortunati crafts is sure to provide something for everyone's enjoyment!
This small winery offers a back stage pass to get an in depth look at the wine making process. An insider’s look at how a boutique winery creates handcrafted wines. Join us at our winery production facility and go behind the scenes for a lively discussion of small-lot wine production while sipping the results.
Kuleto Estate
Located on the eastern edge of the Napa Valley in the hills above Lake Hennessey and the town of Rutherford, this extraordinary mountaintop estate features 82 individual vineyard blocks, three distinctive soil types, and a range of elevations and exposures. From this rich and diverse palette of fruit, Kuleto Estate produces a small portfolio of exceptional estate grown wines.
Kuleto Estate wines are 100% estate-grown, produced and bottled. With 82.9 acres of vines planted between 800 and 1,450 feet, each of the 100+ micro-blocks must receive individualized treatment to maximize their potential. Winemaker Giovanni Verdejo has been working at Kuleto since 2002 and has mastered the art of cultivating the unique personalities of each block into some of the finest mountain estate wines in the Napa Valley.
Brown (estate tasting location)
At Brown we do two things extraordinarily well: wine and hospitality. Experience something utterly unique in the Napa Valley. In 1980 our parents purchased an abandoned ranch in the eastern hills of the Napa Valley. They rehabilitated the crumbling homestead and planted viniferous grapes — which for a decade we farmed and sold to local winemakers. In 1995 we kids decided to make our own wine.
Experiences
Click here for more information
In Napa you'll find a lot of the large estate wineries. These are the wineries you're probably already familiar with and drink at home. You'll want to visit the large estate wineries during the week and stay away on the weekends as it can get very crowded.
Take a closer look and you'll find some really cool smaller boutique wineries too.
Matt's Picks
Popular Wineries
Castle Winery: The most beautiful wineries in Napa Valley simply must start with the most epic Castello Di Amorosa, the only authentic medieval (13th-century) Italian Tuscan castle and winery built in America, officially lowered its drawbridge for business in April 2007. Castello di Amorosa is nestled in the western hills on 171 acres just minutes south of The Napa Valley town of Calistoga.
The Castello has evolved to include over 136,000 square feet, including 107 rooms (90 of which are devoted to winemaking and wine storage); an enormous Great Hall with 2-story replica Tuscan frescoes painted by Italian artists and a 500-year old fireplace; 8,000 tons of hand-chiseled stones; 8 levels (4 above ground and 4 below); a drawbridge, dungeon and torture chamber; medieval church; and arguably the single most impressive wine barrel room in the U.S., with ancient Roman cross-vaulted ceilings.
Ruthorford Hill: Rutherford Hill is a larger winery featuring cave tours. They store their wine in a cave for fermenting so it was really fun to visit. The tasting hosts were friendly and talkative and poured a good glass of wine. Public cave tours are available daily at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm Monday to Friday and 11:00 am, 12:30 pm, 2:00 pm and 3:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday. The exterior of the winery includes a number of shady picnic areas in groves of trees and a large shaded courtyard. With typical Napa temperatures - this is one comfortable place to visit.
Robert Mondavi: Robert Mondavi established his namesake winery in 1966 with a vision to create Napa Valley wines that would stand in the company of the world's finest. He chose To Kalon Vineyard in the heart of the Napa Valley as the home for Robert Mondavi Winery. This first-growth vineyard, located in Oakville, California, is renowned for producing some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the world, as well as for its Sauvignon Blanc grapes, from which Mr. Mondavi crafted his signature wine, Fumé Blanc.
Two tasting rooms feature the winery's limited production and reserve wines by the glass and also by the flight and gives visitors the opportunity to discuss wines with very knowledgeable wine educators. Also on view is the permanent art collection throughout the winery grounds.
Opus One: Naming a winery Opus One sets some seriously high expectations. A musical term that comes from the Latin oper, Opus One is attributed to a composition generally considered to be a composer’s first masterpiece. Launched in 1979, when interest in Napa winemaking was still nascent, Opus One is an ambitious joint venture between two of the world’s most esteemed winemaking figures. It achieved near-overnight critical acclaim, matching the lofty aspirations of its name. Nearly 40 years on, Opus One remains one of the most sought-after bottlings in Napa Valley.
Beringer: Beringer Vineyards is a large winery in St. Helena, California. Founded in 1876, Beringer Vineyards is "the oldest continuously operating winery in the Napa Valley", and is listed under both the National Register of Historical Places and as a California Historical Landmark.
Grgich Hills: Grgich Hills offers a cornucopia of experiences for visitors, including a variety of tours. Still, there’s something to be said for their decidedly old-school tasting bar. With a wide variety of menus available, there’s a tasting for basically every palate. Their Cabernet Sauvignon vertical offers visitors to Napa the rare opportunity to taste six vintages back-to-back, allowing you to grasp the nuances of each year. During crush season they often offer a grape stomping experience. Don’t miss the Chardonnay and their dessert wine “Violetta”.
Tamber Bey: Tamber Bey is located at Sundance Ranch, an equestrian facility for performance horses, and the tasting room is tucked in the spectacular original barn clubhouse designed by Napa Valley architect Howard Backen. Seriously, it’s smack in the middle of the training grounds, amidst the paddocks and opening onto a courtyard surrounded by the palace-worthy 16-stall barn. There’s horse art on the wine labels, and horse art as a mural overlooking the rich wood-paneled tasting room. And, if you’re lucky, when you sit on the lushly landscaped patio there will be some horses for you to watch in the posh stalls framing the courtyard. Merlin, the black horse usually found in the pasture, is always happy to pose for photographs. Pack a few carrots for him in your picnic.
Unique Boutique Wineries
Rarecat
Combining American sensibility and love of the land with a Bordeaux palate and winemaking education rooted in old world traditions. The blending of these two worlds has define a RARECAT wine style based on elegance and balance. RARECAT Wines is built on the philosophy of a Joie de Vivre life. A joy of everything that connects people at the table over a glass of wine. Connecting to important things in life, and experiencing joy with the people you love, cherish, and want to meet!
Fortunati
Truly an artisanal winery, the Luchtel's are very much hands-on and intimately involved with all aspects of their label. Nestled amongst their vines, they oversee each row from their home, and each vine as they walk their dogs. Ellen is often pouring wines for guests, and Gary may drop in to visit, too. Each bottle is a personal expression of their passion for fine wines, carefully tended and crafted with the utmost precision to display each varietal's characteristics. Whether the grapes are estate grown on the ten-acres of the Fortunati Vineyards Estate, or are sourced from a carefully selected grower, the diversity and range of wines Fortunati crafts is sure to provide something for everyone's enjoyment!
This small winery offers a back stage pass to get an in depth look at the wine making process. An insider’s look at how a boutique winery creates handcrafted wines. Join us at our winery production facility and go behind the scenes for a lively discussion of small-lot wine production while sipping the results.
Kuleto Estate
Located on the eastern edge of the Napa Valley in the hills above Lake Hennessey and the town of Rutherford, this extraordinary mountaintop estate features 82 individual vineyard blocks, three distinctive soil types, and a range of elevations and exposures. From this rich and diverse palette of fruit, Kuleto Estate produces a small portfolio of exceptional estate grown wines.
Kuleto Estate wines are 100% estate-grown, produced and bottled. With 82.9 acres of vines planted between 800 and 1,450 feet, each of the 100+ micro-blocks must receive individualized treatment to maximize their potential. Winemaker Giovanni Verdejo has been working at Kuleto since 2002 and has mastered the art of cultivating the unique personalities of each block into some of the finest mountain estate wines in the Napa Valley.
Brown (estate tasting location)
At Brown we do two things extraordinarily well: wine and hospitality. Experience something utterly unique in the Napa Valley. In 1980 our parents purchased an abandoned ranch in the eastern hills of the Napa Valley. They rehabilitated the crumbling homestead and planted viniferous grapes — which for a decade we farmed and sold to local winemakers. In 1995 we kids decided to make our own wine.
Experiences
- Consider visiting Calistoga. A picturesque town famous for mud bath's and spring water.
- Dine at one of Yountville's many Michelin rated restaurants.
- Enjoy tastings at many wineries via the Napa Wine Train. You may also enjoy lunch or dinner on this elegant vintage style train.
- If you're feeling active take a bike tour through the picturesque valley.
Napa Valley Drivers
Your Driver in Napa - Larry Lutrell 707-337-8943
Manny's Wine Tours - Manny Espinoza 707-294-8099
My WT Driver - Gary Thompson 707- 332-5585
WeWine Napa/WC Concierge Tours Jim - Gramlich 707-294-8413
Chris Pittman 707-254-5115
Your Driver in Napa - Larry Lutrell 707-337-8943
Manny's Wine Tours - Manny Espinoza 707-294-8099
My WT Driver - Gary Thompson 707- 332-5585
WeWine Napa/WC Concierge Tours Jim - Gramlich 707-294-8413
Chris Pittman 707-254-5115
Sonoma Valley
H2 Hotel - Healdsburg
Napa Valley
Harvest Inn - Get the harvest view suite with hot tub on the patio
Hotel Yountville
Soleil Auberge
Wine Country Inn & Cottages Napa Valley
Napa River Inn if they want to stay in Downtown Napa with more activity within walking distance
Rosie Berger
707-251-8500
[email protected]
H2 Hotel - Healdsburg
Napa Valley
Harvest Inn - Get the harvest view suite with hot tub on the patio
Hotel Yountville
Soleil Auberge
Wine Country Inn & Cottages Napa Valley
Napa River Inn if they want to stay in Downtown Napa with more activity within walking distance
Rosie Berger
707-251-8500
[email protected]
Sonoma
Sonoma Canopy Tours Tree Tops Course!
Overview
Go ziplining in northern California with this 2.5-hour package in the picturesque town of Occidental. Your guide provides instruction and necessary equipment for your zipline tour, which covers seven ziplines in the redwood forest. You can reach speeds of up to 40 miles (64 km) per hour on the zipline, and challenge yourself to cross two sky bridges and rappel back down to the ground.
Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley
Overview
Embark on a unique wine country experience with a trip aboard the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley. Modeled after the famed cable cars of San Francisco, the trolley shuttles you through Sonoma’s picturesque winemaking region with stops at four different wineries. Taste regional varietals at each estate, and savor a gourmet picnic lunch catered by top-rated local bistro The Girl & the Fig. Learn about the history of Sonoma from your spirited guide as you roll past a handful of historic landmarks throughout the day.
Northern Sonoma Small Group Wine Tour
Overview
Enjoy a small-group wine tour in northern Sonoma County led by a knowledgeable guide. Taste a variety of wines during stops at four wineries in the Russian River, Dry Creek Valley and Healdsburg, including a larger winery and several family-owned boutique wineries. Learn about tasting wine, harvesting grapes and making wine as you see vineyards, visit tasting rooms and tour one of the wineries. Travel in a comfortable minivan with a small group that is limited to ten people, which ensures a more intimate experience of California's wine country.
#1 Sonoma Walking Food & Wine Tour - Small-Group
Overview
Savor the best of Sonoma’s cuisine on a food tour in the heart of California wine country. Sample locally-made wines and artisanal cheeses as you stroll Sonoma’s historic downtown with a foodie guide, then try fine chocolates and olive oil at chic, cutting-edge boutiques. Soak up the latest flavors at six curated tasting stops along a relaxed, route and get an insider’s perspective on Sonoma’s gourmet culture. Learn the stories behind the region’s culinary legends, thriving vineyards, and remarkable artisanal renaissance.
Bonus: Bioluminescence Kayaking!
Sonoma Canopy Tours Tree Tops Course!
Overview
Go ziplining in northern California with this 2.5-hour package in the picturesque town of Occidental. Your guide provides instruction and necessary equipment for your zipline tour, which covers seven ziplines in the redwood forest. You can reach speeds of up to 40 miles (64 km) per hour on the zipline, and challenge yourself to cross two sky bridges and rappel back down to the ground.
- Soar through the redwoods by zipline
- Sky bridge and rappelling included
- Safety gear and instruction provided
- Suitable for reasonably fit participants
Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley
Overview
Embark on a unique wine country experience with a trip aboard the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley. Modeled after the famed cable cars of San Francisco, the trolley shuttles you through Sonoma’s picturesque winemaking region with stops at four different wineries. Taste regional varietals at each estate, and savor a gourmet picnic lunch catered by top-rated local bistro The Girl & the Fig. Learn about the history of Sonoma from your spirited guide as you roll past a handful of historic landmarks throughout the day.
- Full-day wine country tour from downtown Sonoma
- Ride in a replica of a historic San Francisco cable car
- Enjoy the trolley's narration by a local historian and actor
- Visit four family-owned wineries
- Admire the scenery of vineyards and hills from the trolley
- Pickup and drop-off from downtown Sonoma
Northern Sonoma Small Group Wine Tour
Overview
Enjoy a small-group wine tour in northern Sonoma County led by a knowledgeable guide. Taste a variety of wines during stops at four wineries in the Russian River, Dry Creek Valley and Healdsburg, including a larger winery and several family-owned boutique wineries. Learn about tasting wine, harvesting grapes and making wine as you see vineyards, visit tasting rooms and tour one of the wineries. Travel in a comfortable minivan with a small group that is limited to ten people, which ensures a more intimate experience of California's wine country.
- Small-group full-day wine tour of northern Sonoma County
- Visit four wineries in northern California for tastings and a tour
- Hear about wine production from the experts
- Have time to purchase a picnic lunch or restaurant meal in Healdsburg
- Travel with a small group limited to ten people and an experienced wine guide
#1 Sonoma Walking Food & Wine Tour - Small-Group
Overview
Savor the best of Sonoma’s cuisine on a food tour in the heart of California wine country. Sample locally-made wines and artisanal cheeses as you stroll Sonoma’s historic downtown with a foodie guide, then try fine chocolates and olive oil at chic, cutting-edge boutiques. Soak up the latest flavors at six curated tasting stops along a relaxed, route and get an insider’s perspective on Sonoma’s gourmet culture. Learn the stories behind the region’s culinary legends, thriving vineyards, and remarkable artisanal renaissance.
- Get an insider's perspective with a local, food-loving guide
- Experience the distinctive flavors of California's wine country
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch as you visit gourmet tasting stops
- Small group ensures personal service
Bonus: Bioluminescence Kayaking!
Napa
Napa Valley Hot-Air-Balloon Ride with Sparkling Wine Toast
Overview
Experience Napa Valley's world-famous wine country from the air on a sunrise hot-air-balloon ride. Start the day off right with coffee and pastries and then climb into a comfortable basket to take to the skies as day breaks across the valley. Enjoy a bird’s-eye perspective of rolling hills, expansive vineyards, and elegant estates during your flight. Once back on solid ground enjoy a sparkling wine toast with your pilot.
Napa Valley Wine Train with Gourmet Lunch
Overview
Roll through Northern California’s famous wine country on the renowned Napa Valley Wine Train. Pass charming towns like Rutherford and St. Helena, and soak up the scenery of rolling hills, vineyards, and estates through large picture windows on the trip. Explore the restored vintage train cars, and then take a seat for a gourmet lunch or dinner freshly prepared by the train’s acclaimed on-board restaurant.
Travel aboard the famous Napa Valley Wine Train for a unique Napa dining experience
Napa Valley Hot-Air-Balloon Ride with Sparkling Wine Toast
Overview
Experience Napa Valley's world-famous wine country from the air on a sunrise hot-air-balloon ride. Start the day off right with coffee and pastries and then climb into a comfortable basket to take to the skies as day breaks across the valley. Enjoy a bird’s-eye perspective of rolling hills, expansive vineyards, and elegant estates during your flight. Once back on solid ground enjoy a sparkling wine toast with your pilot.
- Napa Valley hot-air balloon ride, including pre-flight refreshment
- Gently soar over the countryside of Napa Valley, enjoying panoramic views of vineyards and rolling hills
- Learn about Napa Valley and its world-famous wines as you fly
- Finish your hot-air-balloon experience with sparkling wine
Napa Valley Wine Train with Gourmet Lunch
Overview
Roll through Northern California’s famous wine country on the renowned Napa Valley Wine Train. Pass charming towns like Rutherford and St. Helena, and soak up the scenery of rolling hills, vineyards, and estates through large picture windows on the trip. Explore the restored vintage train cars, and then take a seat for a gourmet lunch or dinner freshly prepared by the train’s acclaimed on-board restaurant.
Travel aboard the famous Napa Valley Wine Train for a unique Napa dining experience
- Ride a restored antique train through gorgeous Napa Valley
- Admire views of rolling vineyards on your round-trip ride to St. Helena
- Enjoy a freshly prepared gourmet meal and dessert
- Explore the train's multiple cars and visit the kitchen to see the chefs in action
Santa Rosa
Russian River Kayak Tour at the Beautiful Sonoma Coast
Overview
Head out from Santa Rosa to the Sonoma Coast on this kayaking tour of the Russian River. Admire views of redwood forests and rugged coastline as your guide drives you out of the city along Highway 1, and then set sail at the confluence of the Russian River and Pacific Ocean—calm waters and plenty of marine life makes this a fun, all-levels trip.
Safari West Sonoma Adventure Tour
Overview
When visiting Sonoma, take a break from wine tasting to walk on the wild side at Safari West! Home to more than 700 exotic animals, the open-air wildlife preserve offers the experience of an African safari without leaving California. Get an up-close encounter with species like cheetahs, giraffes, wildebeests and flamingos on a 3-hour Jeep and walking tour, while a friendly ranger offers insight into the amazing animal kingdom and the park’s conservation programs. Bring the kids for this fun and family-friendly adventure!
Russian River Kayak Tour at the Beautiful Sonoma Coast
Overview
Head out from Santa Rosa to the Sonoma Coast on this kayaking tour of the Russian River. Admire views of redwood forests and rugged coastline as your guide drives you out of the city along Highway 1, and then set sail at the confluence of the Russian River and Pacific Ocean—calm waters and plenty of marine life makes this a fun, all-levels trip.
- Sonoma Coast kayaking tour from Santa Rosa
- Spot wildlife like osprey, river otters, and harbor seals
- Lunch at a riverside cafe included, plus plenty of snacks
- Hassle-free transit included from central Santa Rosa
Safari West Sonoma Adventure Tour
Overview
When visiting Sonoma, take a break from wine tasting to walk on the wild side at Safari West! Home to more than 700 exotic animals, the open-air wildlife preserve offers the experience of an African safari without leaving California. Get an up-close encounter with species like cheetahs, giraffes, wildebeests and flamingos on a 3-hour Jeep and walking tour, while a friendly ranger offers insight into the amazing animal kingdom and the park’s conservation programs. Bring the kids for this fun and family-friendly adventure!
- Wildlife tour at Safari West in Sonoma
- 3-hour tour includes exploring the park by open-air Jeep and on foot
- See more than 700 animals across 80 species, including giraffes, cheetahs, monkeys, zebras and buffalo
- Family-friendly activity open to kids age 3 and up!
- Choose one of five tour times throughout the day to suit your schedule (and leave you plenty of time for wine tastings!)
- Each Jeep is limited to 12 people, providing a small-group experience
California Cheese Trail
If you love cheese, consider making a few stops along the cheese trail on your way to Napa.
My favorites are:
Marin French Cheese - My favorite cheese is their Petit Breakfast. It's an un-aged brie.
Achadinha Cheese Co. - Be sure to make reservations in advance. The owner will give you a tour of the cheese making process and let you try various cheeses. She also makes butter which is amazing and her Bavarian cream is to die for.
Petaluma Creamery - Make this your last stop on the way to your accommodations. It is set in old downtown Petaluma. They have a self serve cheese tasting experience. It is the perfect place for lunch. They have great sandwiches. Be sure to save some room for the homemade ice cream.
Napa Valley
Napa Valley Olive Oil Company for picnic style lunch
Model Bakery for English muffins
Gotts Drive-In
Auberge du Soleil restaurant at the resort for the best views of Napa Valley
Goose & Gander English style pub for food and amazing cocktails
Brasswood for fresh pulled mozzarella. You may not see it on the menu. You have to ask for it.
Bruschetteria food truck by Cliff Family Farm. Yes, the same family that makes Cliff Bars.
Gary's Wine & Marketplace to pick up a sandwich for the road.
Yountville has nice shops and great dining. There are at least 9 Michelin rated restaurants in this town. French Laundry, Bottega, Bouchon, and Ad Hoc are some of the most notable.
If you love cheese, consider making a few stops along the cheese trail on your way to Napa.
My favorites are:
Marin French Cheese - My favorite cheese is their Petit Breakfast. It's an un-aged brie.
Achadinha Cheese Co. - Be sure to make reservations in advance. The owner will give you a tour of the cheese making process and let you try various cheeses. She also makes butter which is amazing and her Bavarian cream is to die for.
Petaluma Creamery - Make this your last stop on the way to your accommodations. It is set in old downtown Petaluma. They have a self serve cheese tasting experience. It is the perfect place for lunch. They have great sandwiches. Be sure to save some room for the homemade ice cream.
Napa Valley
Napa Valley Olive Oil Company for picnic style lunch
Model Bakery for English muffins
Gotts Drive-In
Auberge du Soleil restaurant at the resort for the best views of Napa Valley
Goose & Gander English style pub for food and amazing cocktails
Brasswood for fresh pulled mozzarella. You may not see it on the menu. You have to ask for it.
Bruschetteria food truck by Cliff Family Farm. Yes, the same family that makes Cliff Bars.
Gary's Wine & Marketplace to pick up a sandwich for the road.
Yountville has nice shops and great dining. There are at least 9 Michelin rated restaurants in this town. French Laundry, Bottega, Bouchon, and Ad Hoc are some of the most notable.
