There are lots of places where you can drink wine in the Bay Area, and probably most of us live pretty close to a tasting room. Yet if you want to try a bunch of different vineyards and turn it into a weekend trip, Santa Rosa and the surrounding area is a wine-lover’s best friend. It’s just far enough from San Francisco and the East Bay that it feels like a true vacation while still boasting the familiar cultural sights that we’re used to (eco-consciousness, foodie culture, sustainability and that California open-mindedness). When you take your Santa Rosa grape-cation, make a weekend out of it and hit these spots.
Our adventure begins at Paradise Ridge Winery, a 156-acre plot of hilly, sprawling vineyard intermingled with acres of forest and sculpture. Yes, in addition to being a place where you can enjoy wine, there’s also a picnic site and a sculpture garden with art curated by the Voigt Family Sculpture Foundation.
Paradise Ridge lives up to its name: the rolling hills and ample views of the valley are Steinbeckian in their majesty. “My parents built the winery specifically because they wanted to share the space,” said co-owner Rene Byck. Byck calls Paradise Ridge’s winemaking methodology “California-style, fruit-forward.” “We like making wines that are good with food,” he added. Their Pinot Noir is, unlike many Pinots, light on the alcohol while being flavorful and full bodied. Before visiting, check ahead for special events and occasions, including their signature event, Wines and Sunsets, which happens every Wednesday during the summer and includes live music and local food vendors.
4545 Thomas Lake Harris Drive, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 / (707) 528–9463
And we can’t forget everyone’s favorite filmmaker-turned-vintner, Francis Ford Coppola. San Franciscans may associate Coppola with the copper-green Sentinel Building located a block from the Transamerica Pyramid, yet Coppola is also a renowned winemaker with a park-like winery in Geyserville, right near Santa Rosa. Francis Ford Coppola Winery boasts a beautiful family-friendly garden space for kids to run around in while adults wine and dine; Coppola has said that his winery’s design was inspired by the great public parks of Tivoli. Beyond being merely a winery, there’s a gift shop that has a selection of film memorabilia from Coppola’s films.
300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, CA 95441 | 707–857–1471
When I was growing up, my dad’s father was responsible for bringing the champagne at Thanksgiving, a task he took on dutifully — and when we met him at the airport, I would help him unload two full boxes of Korbel champagne. Now that I’m an adult, I can appreciate the fuel that kept my parents going while the turkey cooked, which is particularly awesome, given the spectacular natural beauty surrounding Korbel Champagne Cellars. The winery runs right along the path of the Russian River and is just a quick drive from the beloved gay getaway Guerneville. In addition to bubbly, Korbel offers private tastings, tours and a deli with great food. Dogs are welcome in the outside seating area.
13250 River Road, Guerneville, CA 95446 / (707) 824–7000
If you don’t have time to venture too far out of town, Matanzas Creek Winery offers spectacular vistas just far enough from the city to feel rural again. The rolling hills and lavender gardens serve as your backdrop while you sip. And pay close attention to the Merlots and Sauvignon Blancs — their specialty. Plus, like everywhere in the Sonoma area, the Pinot Noir, which they make in more limited batches, is intriguing, rich and full bodied. The soothing lavender from their garden is for sale as well, as a fragrance or in bath products like soap.
6097 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, California 95404 / 800–590–6464
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards is a local favorite and a national award winner. The vineyard estate resembles a Spanish mission (it even has a bell tower) and makes for a great visit on sunny days — which, if you know Santa Rosa, is almost every day. The food is as gourmet as it comes and features multicourse menus and small dishes that pair with the winery’s fierce wine selection. Despite the haute cuisine, the atmosphere is pure California casual — San Franciscans will feel right at home. Word to the wise: the Cabernet is cherished by everyone who tries it.
100 Pythian Road Santa Rosa, CA, 95409 / 888–675–9463
That’s a full day of wine, food and relaxation (at least). When it’s time to rest your head, there are ample hotels in the region that will suit you depending on your mood and/or preference. The Flamingo Resort Hotel is a historic piece of 1950s Americana with 21st-century amenities. When you arrive, you’re greeted by a rotating pink sign — ’60s neon art at its finest. The hotel features a heated pool, restaurant and bar, as well as dancing, live music and other nightly events. Stroll through the foyer to see vintage photographs of California celebrities in Cadillacs luxuriating on the hotel’s grounds.
2777 4th Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95405 / (707) 545–8530
Closer toward downtown Santa Rosa, you’ll find the Courtyard Marriott, a well-appointed and contemporary mini-skyscraper. A door divider between bedroom and foyer and a sink outside the bathroom make the suites feel spacious while increasing privacy. From here you could potentially Uber between most vineyards in the city and leave your car behind.
175 Railroad Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 / (707) 573–9000
For more information on the ultimate Santa Rosa vacation, click to www.visitsantarosa.com.
