19 Must-See Wineries & Tasting Rooms in Sonoma County, California

Living in San Francisco, I have the privilege of being close to some fantastic wine regions. When I’m ready to spend a day—or even a weekend—sampling wines surrounded by vineyards, Sonoma County’s wine country is often my go-to. This sprawling 1,575-square-mile area boasts world-class wines and Michelin-starred dining, all wrapped in a relaxed atmosphere that invites leisurely drives along rustic roads or scenic routes lined with redwoods as you head to your next tasting.

In contrast to neighboring Napa Valley, Sonoma’s wine country is far more expansive and diverse, featuring 18 distinct AVAs and charming small towns like Healdsburg, Sebastopol, Guerneville, Glen Ellen, and Sonoma. This variety adds to the experience: you could taste a pinot noir sourced from the cool coastal regions and then enjoy a bold zinfandel from the warmer inland areas. Just be mindful of your itinerary if you plan to visit multiple wineries—which we highly recommend.

Whether you prefer a guided tasting of the region's finest wines led by a knowledgeable sommelier or simply wish to unwind with a bottle while picnicking in the vineyards, here are 19 of our top recommended wineries to explore in Sonoma.

Carneros

Donum Estate

• Ideal for: wine tasting and extraordinary sculptures
• Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Reservations are necessary

For art enthusiasts, a trip to Donum Estate is essential. Throughout the estate, visitors can enjoy over 50 stunning sculptures from one of the largest private art collections accessible to the public, featuring renowned artists like Yayoi Kusama, Ai Weiwei, Keith Haring, and Fernando Botero. In 2024, the winery introduced a new sound sculpture titled Hyperspace by artist-composer Yang Bao. To experience it all, guests can reserve a tasting that includes a guided art tour, starting at $100 per person, available any day of the week.

Famous for its pinot noirs and chardonnays, Carneros is the closest wine region to San Francisco, making it perfect for day trips or as an initial stop before exploring the larger Sonoma or Napa Valley. —Jessie Beck, associate director of SEO

Sonoma (town)

Don’t be confused: Sonoma refers to both the county and a small town within it. These wineries are all located near the town of Sonoma.

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

• Ideal for: stunning views and live jam band performances
• Open daily from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Reservations are necessary

With 165 years of operation spanning six generations, Gundlach Bundschu is the oldest family-run winery in California. What makes it special (besides their fantastic red wines) is its relaxed atmosphere. Guests can unwind on the outdoor patio, which overlooks charming fields and a duck-filled reservoir, while tie-dye-clad staff serve tastings and local jam bands play familiar tunes as the winery dogs lounge in the shade. —Bailey Berg, Dinogo contributor

Sangiacomo Family Vineyards

• Ideal for: a relaxed tasting experience with breathtaking views
• Open Thursday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Reservations are necessary

A farming ranch since 1927, Sangiacomo has supplied its fruit to renowned brands like Decoy Wines and Meiomi Wines over the years. It was only in 2020 that Sangiacomo began bottling wines under its own label—and we’re thrilled they did. Tastings are held on cozy couches on a lovely rock terrace that overlooks 110 acres of chardonnay grapes from century-old vines. —B.B.

Glen Ellen

Imagery Estate Winery

• Ideal for: a delightful winetasting experience
• Open Thursday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome

Whether you choose to relax at the outdoor picnic tables, gather around the bar, or enjoy a tasting paired with a gallery tour (some of Imagery Estate’s impressive artwork is featured on their bottles), you’ll love this trendy and vibrant winery in Glen Ellen. Jamie Benziger, a second-generation winemaker recognized as the 2019 Best Woman Winemaker in the International Women’s Wine Competition, oversees this property, which offers unique wines like the Italian varietal teroldego. Be sure to check their events calendar, as Imagery often hosts fantastic dinners and live music. —B.B.

Schermeister Winery

• Ideal for: diving deep into wine knowledge
• Open Thursday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Reservations are recommended, with walk-ins accepted based on availability

Winemaker Robert Schermeister, who holds a degree in biochemistry, approaches winemaking with a scientific mindset. However, don’t worry—his tastings are engaging and accessible. He leads all tastings personally, skillfully breaking down complex winemaking concepts into easily digestible insights. You can sample the winery’s creations in their creekside tasting room, but be aware that supply is limited: this husband-and-wife team produces just 600 cases each year, all of which are native fermented and unfiltered. —B.B.

Abbot’s Passage Winery

• Ideal for: wine tasting among the vines—and exceptional cheeseboards
• Open Friday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Reservations are recommended

At Abbot’s Passage, you can enjoy tastings nestled between 80-year-old vine rows. Winemaker Katie Bundschu (of Gundlach Bundschu) specializes in small-batch, organic Rhône-style wines that make the visit worthwhile. Hungry guests should not miss the gourmet cheeseboards, featuring locally sourced cheeses, seasonal spreads, and house-cured meats. Whether you’re looking for a tasting, a food pairing, or just a bottle of zinfandel to enjoy while playing shuffleboard on a Saturday afternoon, the choice is yours. —B.B.

Sebastopol

Merry Edwards

• Ideal for: a relaxed, woman-owned winery near the Russian River
• Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Reservations are required

Starting her journey in 1974, Merry Edwards was among California’s pioneering female winemakers. In 1997, she established Merry Edwards Winery, which is now guided by winemaker Heidi von der Mehden. As a certified sustainable winery, Merry Edwards is a great spot to enjoy a flight of Russian River Valley wines while exploring the lesser-known wine routes in western Sonoma County. After your visit, consider stopping by nearby Willow Wood Market Cafe or Underwood Bar and Bistro to refuel before your next tasting. —Ami Kealoha, branded and sponsored content director

Littorai Wines

• Ideal for: collectors and cult wine enthusiasts
• Open Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Reservations are required

Ted Lemon of Littorai began his winemaking career in Burgundy but has been crafting highly praised pinot noirs and chardonnays in California since 1993. Littorai’s wines are highly coveted, and visiting the tasting room guarantees you’ll sample them—plus tour the winery’s self-sustaining farm and learn about its pioneering regenerative winemaking practices since the early 2000s. —J.B.

Furthermore Wines

• Ideal for: pinot noir enthusiasts
• Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; until 5 p.m. on Saturdays
• Reservations are required

Situated in the Russian River Valley, it’s no surprise that Furthermore founders Bob Zeches and Chad Richard specialize their tastings exclusively on pinot noirs—one of the most beloved grapes in this AVA. If you share a passion for this varietal, visit their Sebastopol vineyard to discover the subtle nuances of pinots from various regions, including Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley, Santa Lucia Highlands, and Petaluma Gap. Picnicking and bocce ball are encouraged in Furthermore’s shady, dog-friendly courtyard. —J.B.

Dehlinger Winery

• Ideal for: an intimate wine tasting experience
• Open Thursday to Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Reservations are required

Established in 1975, Dehlinger is a family-owned vineyard in the Russian River Valley that exclusively produces wines from its estate vineyards. True to its location, the brand offers outstanding pinot noirs and chardonnays, along with two surprising varietals: cabernet sauvignon (more typically found in the warmer Napa Valley) and syrah. Tastings here are intimate, providing visitors the opportunity to engage with the friendly and knowledgeable staff about the wines. —J.B.

Graton

Iron Horse Vineyards

• Ideal for: sparkling wines with a rich history
• Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Reservations are required

If your vision of a perfect afternoon includes enjoying a glass of bubbly outdoors, then Iron Horse is the place to be. This family-owned, certified sustainable winery, perched on a hilltop, boasts breathtaking views of the valley and vineyards below. But the allure isn’t just the scenery: Iron Horse is famed for its sparkling wines—served in the White House since 1985—as well as its pinot noirs and chardonnays. —A.K.

Windsor

Bricoleur Vineyards

• Ideal for: groups with children and/or dogs, and wine tastings accompanied by a meal
• Open Thursday to Monday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Reservations are required

Stepping into the expansive 40-acre estate of Bricoleur Vineyards feels like entering a peaceful nature sanctuary, complete with plant-lined ponds and vibrant flower gardens surrounding its rustic modern tasting room. This picturesque location is perfect for enjoying pinot noirs and chardonnays—particularly if you have a passion for food. Every wine tasting at Bricoleur includes a culinary experience, whether it's a plated picnic featuring a bottle of rosé in the rose garden or a chef-curated pairing that highlights dishes like roasted squash from their farm or fritters made with local abalone.

This family-friendly winery warmly welcomes dogs and children alike. There are menu items that are a hit with kids (such as their unique take on an uncrustable using farm-fresh jam), and the expansive grounds provide ample space for little ones to play while adults enjoy their tastings. —J.B.

Gamba Vineyards

• Perfect for: enjoying zinfandels on a historic estate
• Open by appointment only
• Reservations are required

Gamba Vineyards is a historic estate in the Russian River Valley AVA, representing the rich heritage of Sonoma wine country. Established in 1900 by Cesare Barbieri, the estate was soon acquired by Agostino Luigi Gamba after he immigrated from northern Italy—joining many Europeans who brought their winemaking traditions to California. Now run by Agostino’s son Gus, Gamba Vineyards is renowned for its exceptional old vine zinfandels, available for tasting in its Windsor tasting room. —J.B.

Healdsburg

Aperture Cellars

• Ideal for: enjoying indoor and outdoor tastings amidst a photography display
• Open Thursday–Monday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Reservations are required

Just a five-minute drive from the heart of Healdsburg, you’ll find the new tasting room at Aperture Cellars, which opened its doors in 2020 despite the winery's history of crafting wine since 2009. Here, guests can savor Bordeaux-style wines while relaxing on the oversized sofas on the terrace or in the airy, photography-adorned tasting room, a tribute to winemaker Jesse Katz’s father, renowned photographer Andy Katz.—J.B.

Bacchus Landing

• Perfect for: sampling a range of vineyards all in one spot
• Open daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Reservations are recommended for most tasting rooms, but walk-ins are welcome

If you want to explore a variety of wineries without the hassle of driving, stop by Bacchus Landing, a newly established Tuscan-style venue featuring five unique tasting rooms. Don’t miss the opportunity to try wines from California and Oregon at the Setting Wines, a collaboration involving Jeff Cova, Noah McMahon, and winemaker Jesse Katz (the same Katz from Aperture). Another highlight is Smith Story, operated by a husband-and-wife duo showcasing wines from Sonoma and Mendocino counties. Make sure to greet their friendly winery dog, Lord Sandwich. If possible, plan your visit around an event in the central courtyard, where live music and other activities create a vibrant atmosphere amidst tastings.—J.B.

Truett Hurst

• Ideal for: exploring sustainable viticulture practices
• Open daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Reservations necessary

Located in Dry Creek Valley, Truett Hurst is a delightful place to enjoy a bold zinfandel while embracing the principles of sustainable viticulture. With a commitment to organic and biodynamic practices, winemaking director Ross Reedy ensures that the winery operates holistically. The estate doubles as a self-sufficient farm, featuring goats, sheep, an insect habitat, and a rejuvenated creek teeming with coho salmon.—Tim Chester, deputy editor

Flowers Winery

• Perfect for: delightful food pairings and flexible indoor/outdoor seating throughout the year
• Open Thursday–Monday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Reservations essential

While tasting the exquisite pinot noirs and refreshing chardonnays at Flowers Winery may draw you in, the inviting atmosphere and culinary offerings are equally enticing. Guests can relax in a cozy tasting room adorned with a homely design, warming up by the fireplace during colder months or soaking in vineyard views from the spacious terrace in warmer weather. The food pairings showcase seasonal delights like apple and leek soup, and heart of palm fritters, perfectly complementing each wine selection.—J.B.

Bella Winery

• Ideal for: enhancing your tasting experience with a hike
• Open daily, 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
• Advance reservations recommended (required for tours)

Situated in the Dry Creek River AVA, Bella Winery is renowned for its artisanal small-batch zinfandels. However, a visit here offers more than just wine tasting. Guests can partake in engaging vineyard tours, including one that starts with a guided hike, as well as seasonal events like enchanting candlelit tastings in the winter or summer pop-ups featuring local eateries, such as Diavola Pizza, on the lawn. Bella provides a rich array of experiences beyond the typical tasting.—J.B.

Marine Layer Wines

• Perfect for: enjoying a tasting in a chic downtown venue
• Open daily, 11:30 a.m.–7 p.m.
• Reservations are not required but can be made

At the recently opened Marine Layer tasting room in downtown Healdsburg, which debuted in 2021, visitors can indulge in both stunning visuals and exquisite wines sourced from the Sonoma coast. The vibrant and modern tasting room, crafted by L.A.-based design firm Hommeboys, invites stylish guests to sip on elegantly balanced, slightly saline pinot noirs while relaxing in plush yellow velvet chairs. Plus, it stays open until 7 p.m., allowing for wine by the glass long after other tasting rooms have closed their doors.—J.B.

This article was first published in 2023 and was last updated on September 27, 2024, to reflect new information.