Sonoma
wine tasting tours and winery visits

Stretching from the Pacific Coast in the west to the Mayacamas Mountains in the east, Sonoma County is home to almost 60,000 acres of vineyards and over 400 wineries. Alongside neighbouring Napa Valley, Sonoma is one of California’s most established wine producing regions and, unsurprisingly, a popular destination for a wine tasting holiday. However, there is more to Sonoma than great wine. A scenic coastline and unspoilt state parks, delicious local produce, whale watching opportunities and a welcoming, laid-back vibe are just a handful of reasons to visit.    

WINE TASTING TOURS IN SONOMA
The Sonoma wine region is larger than neighbouring Napa Valley, growing more grape varietals, in more diverse conditions. Each of the county’s 18 American Viticultural Areas (AVA’s) has its own distinct characteristics in terms of climate, terroir and grape varieties and the best way to understand and experience each appellation is on a guided wine tasting tour. 

FOOD TASTING EXPERIENCES IN SONOMA
Sonoma is blessed with an abundance of delicious local produce: full-of-flavour fruit and vegetables, organically reared meat, and the freshest seafood. There is an emphasis on sustainable agriculture and artisan producers of cheese, honey, and olive oil dot the county. It’s no surprise that eateries in Sonoma were offering ‘farm-to-table’ dining way before it became fashionable! There could be no better place to enjoy a food tasting tour. 

MORE REASONS TO VISIT SONOMA
There is more to Sonoma than world-class wine and delicious local food (although these alone are reason to visit!) Explore the Pacific Ocean coastline in a kayak, hike amongst towering redwoods in the forest and learn about the region’s history on a walking tour of Sonoma town. The mighty Gray Whale migrates along the coastline during the winter months and Bodega Head is a great place for whale-spotting opportunities. 

WINERIST INSIDER TIP 
Beer drinkers will be interested to learn that Sonoma County boasts a burgeoning craft beer (and cider) industry. Ask the Winerist team about booking a behind-the-scenes brewery visit to sample the produce for yourself.