Sonoma County has a wonderful reputation for its large, beautiful, and well known wineries. However, bigger isn’t always better. We’ve compiled a list of boutique wineries where you can enjoy an authentic Sonoma County wine tasting experience.

Family Affair

Image Source: Bacigalupi Vineyards and Bacigalupi Vineyards Facebook

Bacigalupi Vineyards
4353 Westside Rd.
Healdsburg, CA 95448
(707) 473-0115
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 28 reviews
Reservation: Not needed for bar tasting, but required for private tastings and groups of 8 or more

True wine connoisseurs will know the story of Chateau Montelena and how it won the top prize in France for its 1976 Chardonnay. The grapes used for that Chardonnay came from Bacigalupi Vineyards. With its rich family history, the winery is also known for its Rosé of Pinot Noir and Syrah.
Insider tip: Looking for a true wine and vineyard experience? Book the Vineyard Dinner and enjoy a multi-course dinner alongside matriarch Helen Bacigalupi and winemaker Ashley Herzberg.

Artfully Beautiful

Image Source: Paradise Ridge Winery

Paradise Ridge Winery
4545 Thomas Lake Harris Dr.
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
(707) 528-9463
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 57 reviews
Reservation: Not needed for bar tasting, but recommended for groups 6 or more

The owners of Paradise Ridge Winery believe in more than just a beautiful wine tasting experience. They are also huge proponents of public art and have turned Paradise Ridge into a wonderful gallery with a large sculpture garden. Customers are encouraged to bring food in from the many food trucks and picnic while taking in the gorgeous view of the Russian River Valley with a bottle of wine. Paradise Ridge Winery also has a tasting room in Kenwood so don’t mix the two up.
Insider tip: Craving pizza? Sign up for the pizza and wine pairing called “the Quattro.”

Cozy and Intimate

Image Source: Westwood Wineries

Westwood Wineries
11 E Napa St, Ste 3
Sonoma, CA 95476
(707) 933-7837
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 88 reviews
Reservation: Not needed for bar tasting

One of the newer wineries in the region, Westwood is known for its Pinot Noir and warm, friendly approach. Small and unassuming from the outside, but cozy and intimate inside, Westwood is the perfect place to break up the day between larger wineries. Be sure to map out the location before you leave because it’s a little tricky to find–the entrance is located down an alleyway.
Insider tip: Take a break from the reds and try the Rosé. Its slight cherry and raspberry flavor will deliciously complement the Pinot.

Comically Fun

Image Source: Two Amigos Wines

Two Amigos Wines
25 E Napa St., Ste C
Sonoma, CA 95476
(707) 799-7146
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 57 reviews
Reservation: Not needed for bar tasting

Two Amigos puts the fun in wine tasting. Best friends for over 30 years, “Vito and Guido Vino” want you to leave with a memorable experience. From the eclectic decor to the furry four legged greeter Mulligan and the wine slushies, Two Amigos Wines will have you laughing and relaxing instantly.
Insider tip: Stop in on Friday for the Junk Food Friday pairing–wine with Doritos and Fig Newtons.

Historic Tasting Room

Image Source: Three Sticks Wines Facebook

Three Sticks Wines
143 W Spain St.
Sonoma, CA 95476
(707) 996-3328
Yelp: 5 stars, 3 reviews
Reservation: Required

Enjoy a bit of California history by visiting the Three Sticks’ tasting room in the newly renovated historic Vallejo-Casteñada Adobe. Try the Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon while learning more about Sonoma’s history and the history of Three Sticks. Reservations required.
Insider tip: Sign up for the Focused Tasting where a personal host will take you on a “slow-tour,” wandering through the new Adobe space explaining the history and design. Then, you’ll sit for a guided journey of new releases, past vintages, and limited production wines.

Female Owned and Operated

Image Source: Inman Family Wines

Inman Family Wines
3900 Piner Rd.
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
(707) 293-9576
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 47 reviews
Reservation: Required

When the “Winemaker is in” sign is posted, you know you will get a fantastic experience at Inman Family Wines. It means owner and winemaker Kathleen Inman is pouring for her guests. Known for her French Burgundy style wine making, Kathleen prides herself in her eco-friendly approach to winemaking, vineyards and packaging. Try the award winning “Endless Crush” rosé.
Insider tip: Kathleen has a farmhouse to rent, right in the vineyard. Billed as a “Bed and Get Your Own Breakfast,” the three bedroom, one bath home is perfect for those who want an authentic taste of wine country life.

A Sense of Place

Image Source: BUMP Wine Cellars Yelp

BUMP Wine Cellars
521 Broadway, Ste A
Sonoma, CA 95476
(707) 228-9214
Yelp: 5 stars, 29 reviews
Reservation: Not needed for bar tasting

Casual and comfortable, BUMP Wine Cellars is a perfect place to wind down after a long day of tastings. You will most likely find owners Geordie and Meiko pouring and educating customers on their history and process. Try the Syrah and Zinfandel.
Insider tip: Open till 6 p.m. which is later than most tasting rooms.

Cool Climate Expertise

Image Source: McLaren Tasting Lounge Yelp

MacLaren Tasting Lounge
27 E Napa St., Ste E
Sonoma, CA 95476
Yelp: 5 stars, 21 reviews
Reservation: Not needed for bar tasting, but required for private tours

Known for its cool climate Syrah, MacLaren Tasting Lounge is very comfortable and unpretentious. Owner Steve Law will often be in the lounge pouring for guests and educating everyone in his Scottish accent.
Insider tip: Schedule a private tasting with Steve by booking an appointment in advance.

Give any of these 10 small Sonoma County wineries a shot and you won’t be disappointed. Already have a favorite from the list? Vote for it below!

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Author

WineCountry Staff