Romantic Weekend in Wine Country

Romantic Weekend in Wine Country

Lindsay Rawitscher
A luxury stay, boutique vineyards, and amazing food create a joyful weekend among the vineyards.
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Day 1: Arrive & Check Out Town

Arrive at the Montage Healdsburg around 5pm by car from any bay area city/airport or by flying directly into Santa Rosa STS. Take time to settle in and change for the evening, then head over to Scout Field Bar in the hotel lobby for a perfect view of sunset and some incredible cocktails.

Montage Healdsburg
@lindsayrawitscher
This eco-friendly luxury hotel has sprawling vineyards surrounding the secluded rooms, each with a private patio.
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DINNER IN THE SQUARE

After drinks, take a complimentary hotel shuttle downtown for dinner at Bravas. After dinner, walk over to The Matheson for wine, dessert or just a nice view. The Matheson also has wonderful food, and is a bit fancier, if you're looking for something besides tapas style for dinner. The square is adorably lit at night, so feel free to walk around and enjoy the evening.

Bravas Bar de Tapas
@lindsayrawitscher
The anchovy appetizers are incredible!
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The Matheson
@lindsayrawitscher
The rooftop is a hidden gem!
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Day 2: Wine Country Day

ARCHERY LESSON

Wake up early and head over to the Montage bike center to begin your complimentary archery lesson! The guides are incredibly patient and helpful; you can have up to 4 people shooting at one time, and there is a picnic area for spectators. After your lesson, head back to the room and get ready for a big day of wine tasting!

VINEYARDS

Vineyard days can be logistically challenging, with options to drive, use ride share, or hire a driver. Each has their own pros and cons, and the right decision is totally dependent on your travel group! Feel free to reach out to me and I can assist in the choice and any bookings needed.

First up, Head to Robert Young Estate Winery for an 11 am tasting reservation. Pricing varies but this location is quite reasonable and they will comp a tasting if you buy any bottle of wine. They have a lovely outdoor tasting room, too.

Robert Young Estate Winery
@lindsayrawitscher
Their tastings are affordable & generous, with beautiful place settings. The views and vineyard tours are incredible!
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Next, head to Willi's Seafood & Raw Bar for a 1 pm lunch. Everything is incredibly fresh and there are lots of options for non-fish eaters. 

Willi's Seafood & Raw Bar
@lindsayrawitscher
All of their seafood dishes are INCREDIBLE.
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Finally, wrap up a day of vineyards with one of the most scenic in the area: Ridge Vineyards. Head in for a 3:30 pm tasting and enjoy your secluded, comfy couch as you look out across the vines before heading back to the hotel.

Ridge Vineyards - Lytton Springs
@lindsayrawitscher
Take your time enjoying the tasting! The employees are extremely knowledgeable.
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UNDER THE STARS

Give yourself time to relax and freshen up before a phenomenal dinner at Hazel Hill, the onsite restaurant of the Montage. This coursed menu will run about $150 per person, or $200 with wine pairings. They are very accommodating to any dietary restriction and are also happy to substitute seasonal flavors for traditional menu items at your request.

Finally, wrap up the night with some star gazing, a unique experience hosted by the Montage. You'll go from the restaurant, past the lobby and into the entrance to the vineyards (or ask the concierge for guidance) to find an elderly gentleman and his daughter polishing their 5' brass and gold telescope. They will guide you along various constellations, teach you about some of the stories behind the stars and allow you to view space through their telescope. This activity is great for all types of groups, and is available from 9:00pm onwards ensuring the sun has set).

Day 3: Brunch & Relaxation

WINE & BRUNCH

Wake up at your leisure and head to Capo Creek, an incredible boutique winery and restaurant. You'll enjoy a leisurely 2-hour brunch tasting menu paired with wines and hear the life story of Mary, the owner, and her many dogs.

Capo Creek Wine Cave
@lindsayrawitscher
I fell in love with this small winery the first time I went! I am now a member and can vouch for the incredible food and wine.
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RELAX

After brunch, head back to the hotel and take advantage of the pool, spa and other amazing hotel amenities. You can also explore the expansive property by foot or golf cart to see the spaces deep in the vineyards.

DINNER

For dinner on your final night, head into town using the hotel's shuttle service. For something more low-key, make a reservation at The Taste of Tea, a charming tea shop and restaurant. If you want to have a more upscale experience, visit Harmon Guest House's rooftop.

The Taste of Tea
@lindsayrawitscher
A tea lover's dream with 250+ types of tea and tea flights to choose from. The food is also wonderful. The atmosphere is casual and cozy.
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Harmon Guest House
@lindsayrawitscher
Head up to their rooftop for lively energy, great food, and views!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Rawitscher
I've been caught planning trips I'll never take on more than a few occasions. When I'm not exploring new places with the people I love, you can find me and my dog relaxing in a San Francisco park.
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