FRIDAY FIVE
Wine country is to San Francisco what the Hamptons are to New York City. But instead of waiting for summer, we can sip on delicious vino yearlong in the presence of the rolling hills.
As we know, Sonoma is the better choice over Napa for many reasons, including the fact that it allows you to escape most of the tourists (we see you, Netflix’s Wine Country). The county’s rustic, down-to-earth charm is more aligned with the typically Bay Area–chill vibe. It’s also home to some of the best patios in all of the wine region. If you’re looking for a last-minute getaway this weekend that involves sun and wine, we suggest checking out the following wineries.
1. Gundlach Bundschu
This may be the most underestimated winery in Sonoma, overshadowed by its trendy neighbor, Scribe Winery, where all the cool kids go. Unlike Scribe, which can be hard to get into and where reservations are required, Gun-Bun (as it’s lovingly called) allows for more of a relaxed experience. It’s also California’s oldest family-owned winery, and it’s still run by intergenerational heirs of the father. Despite its important place in Sonoma history, it’s an exceedingly chill place—think large, flower-filled open green space, delicious and moderately priced wine (we recommend the rosé), and a large patio with picnic tables and string lights next to a scenic lake—sometimes featuring a DJ. While the winery offers a variety of elevated tasting experiences, including a fun “Pinzgauer Tour,” whereby you board a Pinz (a Swiss army vehicle) and head out into the vineyards, you can also just swing by for a tasting or to buy a bottle to share outside.
2000 Denmark Street | gunbun.com
2. Viansa Sonoma
This is the reason why people compare wine country to Tuscany. The sweeping views of the Sonoma Valley and the Mayacamas Mountains dazzle in the distance when you’re drinking al fresco on this winery’s terrace, which can trick you into believing that you are, in fact, in Italy for the day. Then there are the wood-fired pizzas. We admit that the experience is bourgeois (ahem, $75 a person for a private tasting, but only $30 on the terrace), but this is the full experience, which is especially nice when you’re trying to impress visitors or a date. This winery is known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay — both are worth a try. Reservations are required for groups larger than 10.
25200 Arnold Drive | viansa.com
3. Gloria Ferrer
If you can’t afford a ticket to the French Riviera this weekend, that’s A-OK because Aunt Gloria has got you covered. This winery is known for its bubbly brut. Once you’re on their spectacular patio, which is decorated like a French chateau, you’re no mentally longer in California. Gloria Ferrer, located in Carneros of Sonoma, came from Barcelona, which is apparent once you try their red wine. If you want a tasting on the gorgeous terrace, flights of their award-winning sparkling wine are the way to go. Tastings range from $25 — $35, and reservations are only required for groups with more than seven people.
9285, 23555 Arnold Drive | gloriaferrer.com
4. Ram’s Gate Winery
Located on a serene hilltop, where all great Saturdays begin, Ram’s Gate is known for its spectacular views of the Carneros area. Carneros infuses all of the Ram’s Gate experience, as the winery’s architecture is a modern-day take on the old farmsteads that used to occupy the area. Lucky for us, this means a sprawling outdoor patio/picnic area next to an idyllic pond. During what’s officially known as “Summer at the Pond,” winos are invited to live the ultimate Sonoma winery life: bring a blanket, buy a bottle, and enjoy a summer day by the pond. This is a free weekend activity, the only money that needs to be spent is on the wine. Chardonnay and Pinot Noirs are a popular choice at Ram’s. If you are looking to do a more traditional tasting, it is $40 per guest, but one tasting fee waived with a two-bottle purchase.
28700 Arnold Drive | ramsgatewinery.com
5. Roche Winery
It’s all in the name. As soon as you step onto the property, you are welcomed and treated like family. Seriously, going here is like attending a family BBQ, but instead of kitschy tablecloths and so-so potato salad, you have garden views, outdoor fireplaces, and world-class wine. Located next to the Sonoma Plaza, it’s just as charming as one of the further-out wineries that have views. This is a great spot on the weekend if you’re more of an urban winery-goer (meaning more tastings and less driving). A tasting is $20 a person, but the tasting fee is waived with one bottle of wine purchased. For groups of more than eight people, a reservation is required.
122 W. Spain Street | rochewinery.com
