FR Picks: Sonoma Wineries
Being based in Sonoma, California, we are a bit biased about how much love we have for our sweet town, living and working here. Sonoma is essentially a small town full of family owned and small businesses -- event companies, small restaurants, shops, and of course, wineries. Although the Wine Country has been designated as an essential agricultural area, it’s no surprise that in-person tourism is suffering here during the pandemic. Leave it to small business owners to find solutions so that we can all still enjoy what Sonoma has to offer! From wine pickups and shipping deals to virtual tastings and pairing recipes, we’ve got some of our fave local winery (and vodka distillery!) picks for you to check out:
On Sonoma Plaza
THREE STICKS WINE
Their Castenada Rosé is Emily’s pick for all-time favorite Rosé! Enjoy virtual experiences or private Adobe tastings (we are obsessed with the decor!).
https://www.threestickswines.com
GUTHRIE FAMILY WINES
Organic boutique winery that’s been hailed as one of California’s new-wave wine brands with unique varietals like Picpoul Blanc and Carignan. Use promo code SONOMA to get 15% off!
http://www.guthriefamilywines.com/
AUTEUR WINES
Locals Kenneth and Laura Juhasz make the best Pinot in California, hands down! Private outdoor tastings available.
https://www.auteurwines.com/
CORNER 103
A small, black-owned tasting room with award-winning wines open for reservations of groups of 4. Or order online and **bonus: a whole case ships for just $1! Check out their wine pairing recipes too!
https://www.corner103.com/
Sonoma Valley
SCRIBE
Our absolutely fave hacienda here in the valley -- it’s gorgeous! Join their Scribe Viticultural Society for private tastings on their farm.
https://scribewinery.com/
GUN BUN
Gundlach Bundschu -- known by locals as “Gun Bun” -- is a Sonoma Valley staple! Family-owned through six generations over 160 years, it has a variety of private in-person experiences (such as the popular Pinzgauer tour), outdoor bars, and a courtyard on their beautiful grounds.
https://www.gunbun.com/
KIVELSTADT WINE GARDEN & EATERY
A FR fave is now open for outdoor brunch! Yes we said it, the B-word is back! Enjoy Benny's, Avocado Toast, Omelets, Bloody Marys and Mimosas, every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. , become a member and you can reserve the best spot.
https://www.kivelstadtcellars.com/
Vodka (yes, vodka!)
HANSON OF SONOMA DISTILLERY
It may come as a surprise, but Emily’s more of a vodka person than a wino! Luckily we have Hanson’s right next to our studio where we can enjoy vodka tasting experiences and mixed drinks in a fab outdoor area perfect for a hot summer afternoon. Family-owned, handcrafted vodka in small batches from organic grapes.
https://hansonofsonoma.com/
Napa Shoutout…
STEWART CELLARS (Yountville)
Lastly, our friend and client Stewart Cellars is currently open and hosting outdoor seated tastings in their lovely courtyard, or join in on a virtual tasting. We especially love their 2019 Sonoma Mountain Rosé for outdoor summer sipping! Purchase at their stunning tasting room in Yountville or on their website. New customers can use promo code VIRTUAL to receive 10% off their first web purchase.
https://www.stewartcellars.com
1. Three Sticks Wine // 2. Guthrie Family Wines // 3. Auteur Wines // 4. Corner 103 // 5. Scribe Winery // 6. Gun Bun // 7. Kivelstadt Wine Garden // 8. Hanson Distillery // 9. Stewart Cellars
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