Our Go-To Spots for Wine Tasting in Sonoma
When visiting Wine Country, the options for wine tasting feel seemingly endless and planning your stops can be overwhelming. As Sonoma locals who have tasted wine all over town, we’ve gathered a handful of our go-to wine tasting spots you’ll want to be sure to include on your list.
BUENA VISTA BUBBLE LOUNGE
California’s oldest premium winery. The Bubble Lounge is available by appointment only and is not to be missed by any bachelorette or girl’s weekend. The lounge is eclectic, exotic, with a Great Gatsby vibe. Start your day here for the bubbles!
HANZELL
A hidden gem situated up Moon Mountain but in a micro-climate all to themselves on the south east face of the mountain. They farm the vineyards and garden with cutting edge sustainability practices including having geese, pigs, and sheep to “mow” and fertilize the soil. Truly the best winery tasting experience in Sonoma. By appointment only.
SCHERMEISTER TASTING ROOM
Husband and wife team produce an excellent array of naturally-fermented wines. Wine snobs and connoisseur must visit for a seated tasting with Rob and Laura themselves. The Viognier and all of their Pinots are the best glasses of wine I’ve had the pleasure of drinking.
PETER CELLARS
The smallest and most rustic tasting experience I’ve had. Make an appointment far in advance, for the tasting takes place on the winemaker’s private home situated smack dab in the middle of vineyards. Expect Peter or his wife to personally pour you through their collection.
PATZ AND HALL
Located just a few miles to the east of the Sonoma Plaza, this tasting room offers a photo-worthy entrance, an ultra-modern design, and gorgeous views of their vineyards. You practically sit in the vineyard for the tasting! We recommend the Vintage Experience, by appointment only offered Friday, Saturday, and Sundays at 11am. Their beautiful site also accommodates small and large events for private tastings, lunches, and dinners.
Tasting Rooms and Wineries offering walk-ins:
Rancho Maria (Sonoma Plaza; best patio to enjoy a cold glass of rosé)
Bump (Sonoma Plaza; husband-wife team with very small production)
En Garde (Kenwood; incredible wines. Try to book a tasting at their winery and caves)
Cornerstone (Hwy. 116 on your way in; a grouping of tasting rooms, a restaurant, Sunset Magazine gardens, a micro-distillery, and more)
Keep an eye out for more Sonoma guides and feel free to reach out if you are in need of more Wine Country recommendations!