12 Amazing Sonoma County Wineries You Should Visit
*Disclosure: I only recommend products/services that I would use myself & all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links meaning that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission which in turn helps fund my next adventure! Please read the Privacy Policy for more information.
With over 500 wineries spread across Sonoma County, deciding which ones to visit can feel overwhelming - I know it did for me! Sonoma Valley is vast, and the options are endless, but that’s also what makes it such an incredible place to explore. There’s truly no wrong way to experience it, especially when you focus on wineries that match your taste, travel style, and time frame.
Sonoma Valley is known for producing some of the best red wines and Chardonnay in California, varietals I honestly didn’t think I loved until I visited. But after three trips, countless tastings, and eventually joining two wine clubs, my perspective completely changed. Whether you gravitate toward crisp whites, bold reds, or something in between, Sonoma has a winery that will surprise you.
This list is a collection of Sonoma County wineries I personally love and recommend, based on my own visits and experiences. These are wineries I gladly return to every time I visit.
How to Visit Sonoma Wineries
There are a few different ways to experience Sonoma wineries, and the best option depends on whether it’s your first visit and how much planning you want to do. While some wineries on this list accept walk-ins, it’s always best to make reservations in advance when visiting Sonoma County. Tastings often book up, especially on weekends, and having set times helps your day feel relaxed rather than rushed.
Many wineries in Sonoma are clustered close together, which makes it easy to choose one area and stay there for the day. From my experience, planning to visit about three wineries in one day is the sweet spot. You’ll typically spend one to two hours at each stop, and spacing tastings out gives you time to enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also a good idea to plan for food along the way, whether that’s bread baskets, food pairings, or a proper lunch, so you don’t overdo it.
If you’re comfortable driving and have a designated driver, exploring on your own can work. That said, driving yourself does require careful planning, firm reservation times, and someone willing to skip tastings. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are available in Sonoma County, but they can be inconsistent between wineries, especially in more rural areas. This option works best if you’re staying nearby and visiting wineries that are close together, but it’s not always the most reliable choice for a full day of tastings. If you plan to use rideshare services, you’ll want to plan for a 20-30 minute buffer for the car's wait time, in addition to the drive time to the next location.
I’ve visited Sonoma both on guided wine tours and on my own, and if it’s your first time, I honestly recommend booking a wine tour. Small-group and private wine tours take care of transportation, timing, and reservations, which lets you focus on enjoying the wine and the scenery. Tours also make it easier to visit a few standout wineries in one day without worrying about logistics or driving between tastings. I booked a small-group wine tour with my friends the first time I visited Sonoma County, and we had an absolute blast. And, all of the wineries we visited that day are on the list in this article because they were so fantastic.
If it’s your first time visiting Sonoma, I highly recommend the full-day small group wine tour with Sonoma Wine Rides, which is the exact tour I did. It takes care of transportation, reservations, and pacing, so you can relax and enjoy some of the best wineries without worrying about logistics.
12 Amazing Sonoma County Wineries to Visit
1. Winery Sixteen 600
The Sixteen 600 tasting house is a downtown Sonoma favorite! The owner of the rental home I stayed in during my second visit recommended it to me, and I quickly fell in love and became a member. Here, you’ll feel like you’re walking into an old friend’s house, and the staff makes you feel like family. The tasting house has eclectic decor, and each room can host a different group for wine tasting. The wines here are delicious, and we loved choosing a vinyl record to play throughout our time there. Winery Sixteen 600 is not your stereotypical wine tasting experience, and that’s what makes it so unique. You skip all of the fluff and fancy, uptight atmosphere, and go straight to tasting some of the best wine you’ll have. You can make a reservation online for an hour-and-a-half tasting that costs $42. During the tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to taste five of their outstanding wines, from whites to reds!
2. Jacuzzi Family Vineyards
I love visiting a place on vacation, and it makes me feel like I’m on a whole other vacation - that’s what you can expect at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards. After checking in at the hostess stand, you’ll be escorted to your wooden table in the stone courtyard surrounded by olive trees and stone fountains. You’ll immediately feel as if you’re on vacation in Italy. The wines at Jacuzzi are some of my favorites, and all were tasty and smooth. The Rosato happened to be on sale the day we visited, so I, of course, had to buy a case to bring home with me. A one-hour tasting ranges from $30-$40 and it comes with a complimentary basket of bread and some of their very own olive oil. You can also book an olive oil tasting during your visit and sample a variety of their pressed olive oils.
3. Dutton Estate
Located in Sebastopol, Dutton Estate Winery offers a great mix of whites and reds, as well as their newly released canned hard cider. The majority of the grapes are grown in the Russian River Valley and consist of about 1,200 acres of grape vines and an additional 200 acres of organic apples. Yes, this means that the main vineyards are not on site, but don’t let that deter you from visiting, they do have a smaller number of vines on site. Once you arrive at Dutton Estates Winery and walk into their garden patio, you’ll be blown away by how stunning the garden is and how perfectly each table is set up. Dutton Estate offers multiple tasting and wine pairing options with their classic tasting starting at $40 per person. My favorite wines here were the Cuvée Sauvignon Blanc and the Fumé Blanc. Also, be sure to try their new Hard Apple Cider, it was so refreshing, light, and delicious!
Sunset at Sangiacomo Vineyards in Sonoma, CA.
4. Sangiacomo Vineyards
Sangiacomo has a property just as beautiful as their wines. This family vineyard has had ties to the land for over 100 years and it’s a winery you should visit. During the late summer months, they offer sunset drinks on the terrace, which is what I did and it was the perfect way to end one of my days in Sonoma. Throughout the year, Sangiacomo offers a variety of events from Paint & Sips to harvest celebrations and even pop-up pilates on Sundays. At all other times, you can experience their Signature Terrace Tasting which includes a vineyard tour which is something I plan on booking for my next trip. This tasting costs $55 per person but if you want to opt out of the tour, you can book their Terrace Bar Tasting for $40 per person. I was on a Rosé kick when I visited and their Vin Gris of Pinot Noir Rosé was pure perfection.
5. Kivelstadt Cellars & WineGarden
This is the perfect option for both wine tasting and lunch! We didn’t have time to experience the wine tasting at their vineyard in Santa Rosa, but we did start our day here by having lunch with a glass or two of wine at their lounge and restaurant, Bloom Carneros, in Sonoma and let me tell you - they knock it out of the park! The food was way better than I could have imagined and my boyfriend and I crave their pork belly appetizer to this day. The tasting lounge in Sonoma is where the restaurant is located and it’s a casual outdoor space that will make you not want to leave. The wines are flavorful, punchy, and will make you want to keep trying more! They were also one of the first to offer orange wine in the area. Their vineyard is located in Santa Rosa in Bennett Valley and has a beautiful outdoor terrace with gorgeous views. Vineyard tastings are by appointment only, and I can’t wait to visit this location next time.
6. St. Anne’s Crossing
This Kenwood winery is the premier Zinfandel producer in Sonoma Valley and carefully crafts over two dozen Zinfandels alone, along with a variety of Whites & Sparkling. The staff are super friendly, and they do a fantastic job of making sure you have a great, memorable time! You’ll know you’ve arrived at St. Anne’s Crossing when you see the giant 28-foot, 15-ton bear sculpture made of steel and redwood out front. The tasting room at St. Anne’s Crossing has both indoor tables and plenty of seating on the outdoor patio, where you’ll have great views of the vineyards. They offer a classic tasting for $25, which typically lasts 90 minutes, and reservations are highly recommended. St. Anne’s Crossing is part of the Wilson Artisan Wines Family, so if you opt to become a wine club member, you’ll not only receive discounts at St. Anne’s Crossing but also at their 10 other wineries. Of all the varietals I tried at St. Anne’s Crossing, the Ami Cheri Zinfandel was my favorite.
7. Wellington Cellars
Wellington Cellars is located in the Glen Ellen area and has the Tuscan vibe down to a tee! Walk-ins are welcome here, but I highly recommend calling ahead of time to reserve their olive grove table – trust me, it really makes you feel like you’re in the rolling countryside in Tuscany, Italy. Bar Tastings take place inside the tasting room and cost $30 per person, and if you want to sit in the olive grove for a special tasting, it’s $40 per person. This winery sits on 24 acres of vineyards with some vines being more than 100 years old! New ownership came in 2014 and has been working hard to rebrand, rebuild, and scale back to focus only on small-batch, hand-crafted estate wines grown and produced on the property. You can find a variety of Whites and Reds at Wellington, and they even have a Zinfandel made from vines dating back to 1882! After your tasting, be sure to walk through the vineyard rows for great photo ops and to take in the beauty of the old vines. My favorite wines here were the Sparkling Wine and the Estate White Rhone Blend.
8. B R Cohen
A Glen Ellen area favorite, B. R. Cohn is unique in that this winery has some rock ‘n roll in its’ history. The founder of B. R. Cohn was in fact the manager of the Doobie Brothers for 45 years! He purchased the property the winery sits on back in 1974 as a retreat for him and his family and soon enough, became very involved in growing and caring for the grapes and eventually sold his crops to other local wineries. In 1984, the owner began producing his own wines and shortly after began processing his olives on the farm as well and created the first single-estate olive oil in California in over a century. Whether you’re a rock n’ roll fan and want to peruse the memorabilia room or you just want to enjoy the perfect California weather in their lush green yard, B. R. Cohn is the perfect place to relax in Sonoma County. This winery fills up fast and reservations are required if you plan on having a tasting, otherwise, you can order by the glass and enjoy the property. B. R. Cohn offers a few different types of tastings with the basic tasting starting at $35. While you’re visiting, don’t forget to stop in the gift shop where you can sample and purchase their delicious olive oils and vinegars. You’ll also find great gifts here too, a lot of which are made by local artisans.
9. Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyard
This winery was built from the ground up by a Spanish couple from Barcelona who moved to Sonoma in 1980. They planted the first 50 -acres in 1984 and opened their doors two years later. Gloria Ferrer is the first sparkling winery in Carneros, and it is truly a must-see when visiting Sonoma County. Today, the vineyards at Gloria Ferrer have grown to a whopping 207 acres and their property is absolutely stunning. Once you turn off the main road, you’ll start your winding journey on their long driveway with rows of grapevines on either side as you make your way uphill to the tasting room. You can find numerous tasting options at Gloria Ferrer ranging from $60-$135 per person. The classic tasting includes four different types of sparkling wine, and the pours were very close to a full glass of bubbly, so I didn’t mind the fact that this was the most expensive tasting of our trip, it was well worth it! My favorite was the sparkling pinot noir, and I loved it so much I had a half-case shipped home. If you’re still craving more bubbly after your tasting, the staff will happily help you choose a variety offered by the glass. Our tasting was outside under the covered patio and then we moved into the sun to one of the many seating areas and took in the view overlooking the vast grapevines.
10. Viansa Winery
Viansa Winery is the perfect place to start your day in Sonoma! This family-owned winery focuses on Italian varietals, and you’ll feel as if you stepped into a Tuscan dream once you’re on the property. The tasting room, marketplace, and terrace sit on top of a hill overlooking Sonoma Valley and provide sweeping views for a wine tasting you’ll be sure to remember. I booked their Wine Tasting on the Summit, and it was fantastic! This wine tasting costs about $40 per person, and it’s worth it for the views alone. If you’re looking for something more private, they offer a Private Outlook Tasting that still offers the same panoramic views, but is in a secluded structure. After your tasting, take some time to wander around the property and explore the marketplace for locally sourced gifts and food items.
11. Auteur Wines
This gem in downtown Sonoma is passionate about Pinot Noir, and they also had the best Chardonnay I’ve ever tasted - and I usually hate Chardonnay. Angie guided us through a tasting when we visited, and she explained why I usually dislike Chardonnays so much, which the reasoning now escapes me, so I guess I’ll just have to go back! Auteur offers tastings and bottle service, and their tastings start at $40 per person. You can have your tasting either inside the early 1900s bungalow or out on the patio, as we did. You’ll take a deep dive into each varietal as you make your way through the tasting and learn what the small but mighty team behind Auteur Wines is most passionate about.
12. Kunde Family Winery
This huge Kenwood winery sits on 1,850 acres and is actually one of the oldest bonded wineries in the entire state of California. Kunde Family Winery offers a range of tastings starting at $20. The classic tasting option is located at the outdoor standing bar, and the top-tier tasting will take you all the way up to their stunning mountain top for a tour & tasting, which goes for $100 per person. If you’re opting for the entry-level tasting at the outdoor bar, then you don’t need to worry about making a reservation beforehand, but reservations are recommended for the Mountain Top Tour & Tasting as it’s typically with a small group. Kunde usually has weekend events, including live music, so plan on arriving early in the day if you’re visiting on the weekend. The wines at Kunde are all unique and consist of Chardonnay varietals and a nice range of Reds, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel. My favorite wine at Kunde Family Winery was the Summer’s Blush Rosé, and I look forward to booking their Mountain Top Tour & Tasting for my next visit to Sonoma County!
Where to Stay in Sonoma County
Sonoma County is spread out, so where you stay can make a big difference in how relaxed your wine-tasting days feel. Choosing the right home base helps cut down on driving time and makes it easier to enjoy evenings without rushing. The most popular places to stay are Sonoma, Santa Rosa, and Healdsburg, each offering a slightly different experience.
Staying in Sonoma proper is a great choice if you want to be close to tasting rooms, restaurants, and Sonoma Plaza. I’ve stayed here twice and loved how walkable and charming it feels, especially if you enjoy ending the day with a nice dinner or a stroll through town. This area works well for first-time visitors who want an easy, central base with plenty to do nearby. Sonoma Valley Inn by Hilton is a great, reasonably priced option steps from the main square.
Santa Rosa is a more practical option if you’re looking for a wider range of accommodations or planning to explore multiple parts of Sonoma County. I’ve stayed here once and found it convenient for getting around, especially if you’re visiting wineries in different directions or combining wine tasting with other activities. It’s also a good option if you’re staying a little longer and want more flexibility. Hotel La Rose is an excellent option - it’s a historic hotel, spacious, and right at the town square!
If you’re drawn to a more upscale, wine-country feel, Healdsburg is another popular place to stay. It’s especially well-located for exploring Dry Creek Valley and Russian River wineries and has a polished downtown with excellent dining options. Healdsburg tends to be pricier, but many travelers love the atmosphere and proximity to some of Sonoma’s most well-known wineries. Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza is another gem of a hotel located in a historic building right in the heart of Healdsburg. The rooms are spacious, and you’ll feel as if you’re in a wine-lovers’ dream.
If you’re planning a Sonoma wine-tasting trip with friends, a vacation rental makes it much easier to stay together and relax between tastings. I like using Whimstay for group trips because it often has better prices than Airbnb or VRBO, especially for larger homes.
No matter where you choose to stay, Sonoma County has great options for both hotel lovers and travelers who prefer rental homes. If you’re planning your trip day by day, staying central and pairing your lodging with a guided wine tour can make the entire experience feel easier and more enjoyable.
Tips for First-Time Visitors to Sonoma County
If this is your first time wine tasting in Sonoma County, a little planning goes a long way. Sonoma is relaxed and welcoming, but it’s still a destination where pacing matters.
Don’t overpack your day. Three wineries are usually the perfect amount, especially if you want to enjoy each stop without rushing.
Make reservations whenever possible. Even wineries that allow walk-ins can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Eat throughout the day. Plan for food between tastings so you can enjoy the wine without overdoing it.
Plan transportation ahead of time. Whether that’s a guided tour, a designated driver, or staying close to where you’re tasting, this makes the experience much more enjoyable.
Leave room to wander. Some of the best moments in Sonoma happen between tastings, whether that’s a long lunch, a scenic drive, or an unexpected stop.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned after multiple trips to Sonoma County, it’s that you don’t need to see everything to have a great experience. Sonoma is spread out, the wineries are varied, and trying to do too much in one day usually takes away from the fun.
This list is meant to help you narrow things down and choose wineries that are worth your time, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. Pairing a few great winery stops with the right home base and a solid plan for getting around makes the whole trip feel easier and more enjoyable.
Whether you decide to book a small group tour as I did, stay close to Sonoma Plaza, or plan a trip with friends and base yourself in a rental, you’re bound to have a great time. A little planning goes a long way here, and it leaves more room to actually enjoy the wine!
Happy travels!
-Tess
Tess Arnold
Hi! I’m Tess, founder of TravelingTessie.com, and not only do I love to travel, but I love immersing myself in new places and finding off the beaten path experiences wherever I go! I’ve lived in 4 different states & traveled to 13 countries and counting. I believe that tourism is meant to benefit both visitors and locals alike—and I want to bring that idea back into the travel industry by highlighting companies run by locals such as tours, hotels, restaurants, and more. On Traveling Tessie you can find hidden gems in top destinations around the world, travel tips, detailed city guides, and tons of inspiration for your next trip! If you love travel as much as I do, then please join me on this journey! I hope you enjoy my content as much as I enjoy providing it for you!
