Known for its stunning scenery, laid-back vibe, and locally-driven food scene, Sonoma County checks all the boxes as a dreamy Wine Country destination. But when it comes to beautiful wineries, Sonoma overdelivers. From wineries that showcase immaculately landscaped gardens to those with historic buildings and vineyard views, here are our picks for the ten most beautiful wineries in Sonoma County.
Photo Courtesy of Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery
Bubbles & Bites
J Vineyards
11447 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 431-5430
Reservation: Required
Widely known as a top producer of California sparkling wine, J Vineyards truly offers something for everyone at its stylish winery and tasting room near Healdsburg—especially for those who love fantastic food. Head to the elegantly designed J Bubble Room for five courses of culinary delights and wine pairings, or enjoy a tasting of five wines from their comfortable, vineyard-facing outdoor terrace. Even more, J’s popular culinary series, Shifting The Lens, is returning to the Bubble Room this May and September to up-level traditional winery food pairings. The series includes two chef residencies, featuring tasting experiences and special, five-course pairing dinners highlighting different perspectives on food, wine, and culture.
European-style Grandeur
Chateau St. Jean
8555 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA 95452, (707) 257-5784
Reservations: Not required, but recommended for certain tasting experiences
Founded in 1973, Chateau St. Jean offers an idyllic setting in Sonoma Valley, where a European-style, 1920s chateau is surrounded by lush gardens, vineyards, and mountains. Enjoy a tasting flight on the terrace or an elevated seated tasting in the historic chateau, and be sure to add a cheese board or something from the deli. Since Chateau St. Jean’s 50th anniversary is this year, the winery is also offering a 50th Anniversary Library Tasting, featuring a vertical tasting of the Bordeaux varietals that put Chateau St. Jean on the map.
Culinary Delights
Jordan Winery
1474 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 431-5250
Reservations: Required
The ivy-covered chateau of Jordan Winery in Alexander Valley is an impressive sight, modeled after the chateaus of France. Beautiful winery building aside, it’s hard not to be captivated by the natural beauty of the 1,200-acre property, which features mountaintop vistas, rolling vineyards, and elaborate culinary gardens. Each of the unique tastings and experiences offered showcases the winery’s commitment to both quality food and wine, but to really get a taste of Jordan, book the Estate Tour & Tasting (which resumes in June). This three-hour journey through the picturesque estate includes al fresco wine tastings, food pairings, and a tasting of Jordan’s Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil, for a comprehensive (and memorable) Jordan experience.
Natural Beauty
Medlock Ames
13414 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 431-8845
Reservations: Required
Medlock Ames Winery was founded in 1998 by college best friends, Chris Medlock James and Ames Morison, who purchased Bell Mountain Ranch with the intent to grow grapes to make acclaimed wines. Since its inception, the duo has been committed to preserving their breathtaking property, and continue to employ conscientious, organic, and sustainable farming methods to produce their limited-edition wines. Although Medlock Ames features an inviting tasting room in downtown Healdsburg, the true magic of the winery is best experienced at the 338-acre Bell Mountain Ranch along Chalk Hill Road. Here, you’ll be captivated by 44 acres of vineyards, 650 olive trees, an orchard, and a charming on-site garden, not to mention you’ll be enthralled by the delicious wines.
Sustainable Surroundings
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards
100 Pythian Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, (888) 675-9463
Reservations: Required
Established in 1979, St. Francis Winery is a family-owned, Certified Sustainable winery dedicated to producing estate wines that showcase the unique terroir of the area. Enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards and Mayacamas Mountains from the mission-style tasting room, which includes a bell tower containing a 1,000 pound bronze cast bell that chimes each hour. The winery offers an array of tasting experiences to enjoy, from a fun trolley tour in the vineyard to a five-course wine and food pairing utilizing seasonal ingredients grown in the winery’s on-site garden.
Idyllic Picnic Grounds
Landmark Vineyards
101 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, CA 95452, (707) 833-0053
Reservations: Not required Monday-Friday, required for weekends
Located in the quaint community of Kenwood, Landmark is known for its small-production Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Tours and tastings are offered daily at the charming winery, but to really enjoy the surroundings, book the Bocce Ball Court and Wine Experience. You’ll get access to the court for two hours, a glass of wine of your choosing, and a curated cheese and charcuterie board. During the summer months, Landmark also hosts afternoons of live music on the idyllic lawn at their Hop Kiln Estate (on the first Sunday of each month). Tickets include a wine flight in addition to access to exclusive wine promotions.
Italian-Style Ambiance
Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery
8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 433-6700
Reservations: Required for tours and private tastings
At the northern end of the Dry Creek Valley is Ferrari-Carano, a stately, Italian-style tasting room known for its Fumé Blanc and super Tuscan-style reds. Taste inside the Villa Fiore hospitality center or head outside to the terrace, Il Terraza, to sip while taking in the lovely vineyard views. Regardless of the time of year you visit, don’t miss the chance to wander around the winery’s extensive gardens—five acres to be exact. Here, you’ll find footpaths, bridges, a stream, fish ponds, thousands of tulips, and other impressive flowers on display throughout the colorful grounds.
All That Sparkles
Iron Horse Vineyards
9786 Ross Station Road, Sebastopol, CA 95472, (707) 887-1507
Reservations: Required
Iron Horse Vineyards is one of Sonoma County’s most popular family-owned wineries, known for its estate sparkling wines which can be enjoyed from the casual, rustic outdoor tasting room overlooking rolling hills of vineyards. This Russian River winery offers a wide variety of sparkling and still wines, but a regular favorite is the popular Wedding Cuvée, a crowd-pleasing bubbly that makes a great wedding gift. Reserve a tasting at this picturesque winery for a true taste of Sonoma’s relaxed and welcoming hospitality.
Join The Club
Scribe Winery
2100 Denmark Street, Sonoma, CA 95476, (707) 939-1858
Reservations: Required (open for members only)
Set on a piece of property that pioneered pre-prohibition Sonoma Valley winemaking, Scribe Winery attracts a young, hip crowd to its peaceful location for skin-fermented Chardonnay, Sylvaner, and Pinot Noir. Tastings of Scribe’s coveted wines take place in the estate’s renovated historic Hacienda, offering a glimpse of the past while you sip. A connection to the land has always been part of Scribe’s philosophy, which is why the winery has an on-site garden, dedicated chefs, and regular farm-to-table dinners held throughout the West Coast. Just note that to experience the winery and its events, you’ll have to join the Scribe Viticultural Society.
Mountaintop Splendor
Coursey Graves
6860 Serenity Way, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, (707) 867-1888
Reservations: Required
Nestled atop the slopes of Bennett Mountain, the 13-acre Coursey Graves is a breathtaking destination in Sonoma Valley. The property boasts stunning views in every direction, with vineyards, wildflowers, and oak trees creating a picturesque backdrop. But the winery is more than just a pretty face—it’s known for its exceptional Cabernet, Syrah, and Chardonnay wines, each one expertly crafted to highlight the unique terroir of Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Come for the scenery, stay for the wine—a visit to Coursey Graves is sure to be a memorable experience.
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