Fun in Sonoma County, Northern California
Come for the Wineries
Most people happen on Sonoma because of their incredible wines, and that is how it should be. It's quieter and more accessible than Napa wineries, and typically less expensive. One of the issues is that with the size of the county, there are several wine regions to explore. I will mention 3 of areas that: Valley of the Moon (Sonoma Valley), Dry Creek, and Russian River Valley.
Starting with the Sonoma Valley, this region starts at the charming town of Sonoma and ends before the city of Santa Rosa. This is a thin valley that takes you past the towns of Glen Ellen and Kenwood, with fantastic wineries like BR Cohn, Landmark, Benzinger, and more.
In Russian River, you will get a decidedly more woodsy feel as its location closer to the Pacific Ocean in a less developed area. The ocean keeps this AVA cooler producing very different wines to the other regions. The top wineries here are Gary Farrell, J Vineyards, La Crema, and Rochiolli.
And finally there is my favorite: Dry Creek region. Close to Healdsburg, this area is more arid and smaller than the other appellations. It's very approachable and easy going, with really only two main roads throughout and one general store that marks its beginning. Driving the country roads and stopping at these low key wineries is a lovely way to spend a day.
Go on an Adventure
