While Sonoma's renowned large wineries draw crowds of visitors, the region's boutique wineries offer an intimate glimpse into the heart and soul of Wine Country. These smaller, family-owned establishments provide unique tasting experiences that showcase the incredible diversity of Sonoma's terroir. Here's your insider's guide to some of Sonoma's most exceptional boutique wineries. ##

In the heart of Sonoma County, where nature’s splendor meets artisanal craftsmanship, Anne Appleman’s floral designs offer a glimpse into a world where fleeting beauty is preserved in timeless form. From her studio on Eighth Street East in Sonoma, Anne has turned her passion for flowers into an art form, specializing in dried floral arrangements that reflect both her skill and dedication.

In this vast tapestry of life, where the threads of joy and sorrow intertwine, there exists a peculiar form of contentment that can only be found in the simple act of dining al fresco. A soft blanket spread out upon a green patch of earth, a wicker basket overflowing with savory and sweet delights, and the gentle laughter of loved ones takes flight as the Monarch does in spring. It is in moments like these that we come to understand the true essence of what it means to be alive, to partake in the glory of nature and to find solace in the company of those we hold dear. And so, it is with a sense of reverence and gratitude that we explore the art of crafting the perfect Sonoma picnic spread, an act that is at once simple and profound, a testament to the enduring power of food, and fellowship.

In the sun-dappled glens of Sonoma County, where gentle breezes whisper secrets through twisted vines, and mighty oaks stand as sentries over hushed streams, one may chance upon sacred groves and botanical sanctuaries unknown to the casual traveler. Yea, these are the hidden gardens, rain-kissed and tended by the devoted hands of horticultural masters - verdant redoubts secreted away amid the undulating folds of the land, where Nature's most exquisite productions are collected and cultivated with reverence. Let the soul intrepid enough to seek out these enclaves of vibrant serenity be rewarded with visions of splendor to stir the senses and soothe the weary spirit. For those whose eyes may pierce the verdant veil, raptures await amidst the perfumed arbors of Sonoma's cloaked Garden Edens.

Our Chefs are masters at weaving culinary storytelling through every vibrant, hand-crafted dish. Our narrative arc flows from the sun-dappled fields and pastures of Sonoma's local growers to your eagerly awaiting palate. And some of our most compelling tales are told through the unsung heroes of the kitchen: condiments.

In the rich valleys of Sonoma, where the earth yields its bountiful gifts with grace and generosity, the art of plating is not merely an exercise in aesthetics but a reverent homage to the land and its hardworking tillers. As the sun casts its warm embrace upon the rolling vineyards and the gentle breeze carries the scent of ripened fruits, a symphony of flavors and hues awaits those who possess the vision to transform nature's offerings into culinary masterpieces. It is in this hallowed realm that the artisans of Goodness Gracious Catering ply their craft, weaving the threads of passion, community, and sustainability into every plate they adorn, each dish a canvas upon which the story of Sonoma's terroir is lovingly inscribed.

The heart of tablescaping belongs to the Creative. It's about channeling your inner artist and letting your imagination run free. Whether you're drawing inspiration from nature, culture, or your own personal style, the key is to infuse your table with a sense of personality and charm. Mix and match textures, colors, and patterns to create a tapestry that tells a story and captivates the senses.

Come, dear wanderer…

Through meadows adorned with dancing grass, graced with the mornings dew, and orchards heavy with the promise of sun-ripened fruit. Through the thickets and forests of hardy, acorn-heavy oaks, dappled with sunlight and rice paper leaves. In this idyllic sanctuary, where time surrenders to the languid rhythm of the land; where our hikes become a treasure hunt and every meal a celebration of nature's abundance- we can adventure together through this special corner of California. Let us be your guide on a journey of discovery, community, and culinary delights.

At the heart of every gathering, there lies a sacred ritual. At Goodness Gracious, ours is the cheeseboard…

Upon a wooden canvas, the cheeseboard unfurls-a culinary poem etched in textures and hues. Each cheese, a stanza in a tale of taste, whispers secrets of age and origin. Soft camembert beckons with its velvety embrace, while aged gouda sings of sun-drenched pastures and distant horizons. Prosciutto, draped like silken ribbons, weaves tales of salty sweetness, a dance of indulgence upon the tongue. Amidst this lavish tableau, freshly washed grapes glisten like amethyst gems, while figs offer their honeyed nectar in tender embrace and honeycomb glistens like liquid gold, a tribute to nature's bounty. And in this feast for the senses, fragrant herbs pirouette, their delicate whispers infusing each bite with the terroir of the earth. Oh, cheeseboard, you are more than mere sustenance—you are a sonnet of taste, a celebration of life's rich tapestry!

In the heart of Sonoma County, where the sun-kissed vineyards mingle with fragrant orchards, lies a world where nature's symphony plays out in every flutter of a bee's wing. Here, amidst the interweaving vines, we uncover the small, but ever-present, realm of honey production, where each jar tells a story of dedication, passion, and the indomitable spirit of Sonoma's beekeepers.

In the realm of culinary delights, salads often fare forgotten. But we’re here to champion the salad, and reimagine what it can be for our bodies and our environment. Beyond their taste and texture, salads boast a trifecta of benefits: they are vibrant, refreshing and delicious, sustainable, and incredibly healthy for both our bodies and the world around us. By utilizing the freshest product grown near, it’s possible to craft a salad worthy of entree status, and we’re here to show you how!

Ever danced with a goat while sampling artisanal jams under the California sun? Well, neither have we, and we're not entirely sure if that scenario would play out exactly like we’ve imagined, but there's no better place to dream of such things than some of Sonoma's most iconic, community driven, sustainable farms along the historic stretch of Highway 12.

Sonoma County offers so much more than wine tasting and indulgent culinary experiences, and is especially a destination for the winter months. The hills are vibrant green set behind the rows and rows of sunny, yellow mustard blooms. It really is a sight to behold, and a sight to slip you into relaxation and revelation of the natural beauty we are blessed with. Check out our tips for enjoying Wine Country this winter and beyond.

Sonoma County has some of the best hidden gems and day trip itineraries for every group! Whether you're an adventurous corporate group, bachelorette party looking to indulge and relax, or a family spending some quality time, there is something for you during every season here in the Valley. So come along for the ride with us, as our team reveals some of our favorite hidden gems and unique day-trip-destinations in Sonoma County!