Who says a tasting room has to be a room?
Here in the Valley of the Moon, it’s really the warm sun, the cooling breezes and the spectacular vistas that lie around every corner that make this such an exquisite place to be outside. Especially this time of year. Lest you think you have to choose between wine tasting and being outdoors, you will be pleased to know that many of the Valley’s wineries allow you to enjoy both. Today’s Sign Post starts outside Glen Ellen and winds its way through the Sonoma Valley, stopping along the way to soak in the season’s abundant sunshine. So slather on some sunscreen and let’s roll.
Robert Hunter Winery
Start your journey off right with an appointment at the lovely Robert Hunter Winery where you can enjoy a morning glass of sparkling Brut de Noir in the gardens. The exotic botanical garden and grounds are in full bloom right now. Sip scintillating, estate-sourced wines while you savor the sights, sounds and smells. Ann’s garden is ablaze in a wide array of plants, many of them quite rare. Robert Hunter Winery welcomes visitors by appointment only.
15655 Arnold Drive, Sonoma
www.roberthunterwinery.com
VJB Vineyards and Cellars
Fully refreshed from bubbles and blooms, head north though Glen Ellen to Kenwood for lunch at VJB Cellars. Between the tenors strolling the piazza, family-made wines and wood oven fired pizza with matriarch Maria Belmonte’s special sauce, lunch at VJB feels like being transported to a small Italian villa.
60 Shaw Avenue, Kenwood
www.vjbcellars.com
Landmark Vineyards
With belly full, head north a few blocks to the gorgeous grounds at Landmark, where the manicured bocce ball courts have stunning views of Sugarloaf Ridge. If Bocce ball proves too exhausting, carriage tours through the vineyards are also on offer. These are hosted by third generation grower Pat Prather and his team of prized Belgium draft horses.
101 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood
www.landmarkwine.com
Little Vineyards Family Winery
Ready to cut a rug? That sound you hear as you head down Hwy 12 toward the town of Sonoma is coming from Little Vineyards. Seems there’s always music playing at this boutique winery. A hidden gem in the heart of Sonoma Valley, you can finish with a tasting of their Estate Band Blend and nestle in for the night at their vineyard cottage.
15188 Sonoma Hwy, Glen Ellen
www.littlevineyards.com
