Wine Valley of Sonoma County.
California is well known for it wine valleys, especially Napa, and we seem to easily forget about Sonoma County. Did you know that Napa and Sonoma are two different entities? You should really consider making a stop in the Wine Valley of Sonoma County just because it is a lot less touristy! Following is all you need to know about Sonoma County!
Separation with Napa
Why is it important to understand the difference between Napa Valley and Sonoma County? Well it’s simple, because of the wines. Sonoma County ‘s microclimates allow a diverse production of wines, different grapes, different quality, different tastes. Even tough you might know more about Napa wines, Sonoma Wine Valley offers great wines as well… Napa has just made its name through a more aggressive promotion. So unless you are trying to do what everyone else is doing, give the Wine Valley of Sonoma County a try and come enjoy the outstanding quality, passionate winemakers, while leaving the crowd to Napa!
The Established Wineries
With 13 different viticultural areas, you bet you have a good choice in where to stop for a little wine tasting! But which are the most popular vineyards and wineries that you should not miss? You can start by deciding which wines you are interested in: Chardonay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet, Sauvignon or Merlot… and then select the wineries that produce these wines. Or you can just visit the most popular wineries of the Sonoma County. Benziger Family Winery is one of the most popular one for its garden and its great wines. It offers you a full experience. If you want to get a more European style visit, then you should go to the Chateau St Jean in Kenwood. Everything depends on the experience you are looking for.
Off the beaten path Wineries
One thing that you should think about, is going where no body goes and try off the beaten path wineries. Give a chance to smaller producers! They often surprise you with some great taste and amazing experience! Since it might be harder to find those vineyards, why not take a tour? Such tours as Platypus Tour offer you a guided visit of smaller wineries while teaching you everything you should know about wine. This is a great idea if you are looking for a more personalized adventure!
Where to eat
Most wineries do not only offer wine tastings, but also have a nice restaurant, where you can try how your favorite wine mixes with your favorite food. But since you are coming to discover what French people do best… wine… why not keep going with the french style trip and eat French? Sonoma County has a great choice of fine french cuisine restaurants. ( Rendez Vous, Bistro 29 , Cyrus) And if you are not so much into snails and frogs ( ha!), you can always try something else. Locals really enjoy Della Santina’s Trattoria, for Italian Cuisine obviously ; or the Taqueria La Hacienda for some good ceviche and a great salsa bar!
More than just a Wine Tasting Experience
Don’t forget, there is a lot more to Sonoma County than just the Wine Valley and it’s vineyards. Sonoma County has amazing scenic drives. If you are looking for a sport and nature oriented trip, SugarLoaf Ridge is your destination. Whether it is for hiking, biking or camping, this State Park is worth leaving the wineries aside for a while. The Wine Valley is amazing from the ground, imagine what it is like from the sky! Don’t imagine anymore, go see it! Take a hot balloon flight above the Wine Country and admire the peaceful landscape.
Sonoma County is an amazing destination with a lot to see, do and taste! So plan your trip to the Wine Valley and enjoy every bit of it!
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