Sonoma Wineries: Uncork the Magic of Sonoma Valley

Tucked away in the hills of Northern California, Sonoma County’s wineries are a hidden gem wine lovers often overlook. 

Once you arrive, it’s easy to become overwhelmed, as there are seemingly endless tasting experiences.

In this article, we’re exploring how many wineries are in Sonoma County, where exactly Sonoma is located, and the top twelve best wineries to help you get started on your journey to this historic wine country. 

Where is Sonoma Valley, California?

Just north of San Francisco along the Old Redwood Highway (Highway 101), you’ll find Sonoma County. The breathtaking Mayacamas Mountains border this rural wine country with 19 wine regions.

Sonoma County is less than thirty minutes from another beloved wine country, Napa Valley. Despite Napa being more of a tourist favorite, Napa and Sonoma are both known for their historic settings and for crafting wines of similar, high quality.

Keep reading for an in-depth look at twelve of the top wineries in Sonoma County.

Best Sonoma Valley Wineries

With over 400 wineries gracing its endless hills, here are some of the best Sonoma Valley wineries to choose from.

1. Robert Young Estate Winery

The Robert Young Estate Winery is a charming winery hosts an excellent view of the Sonoma Mountains and has been run by the same family for six generations. Its exquisite wines have remained a local favorite since founder Robert Young first transformed the family’s prune ranch into a thriving wine estate. He started by planting Cabernet Sauvignon in Alexander Valley, which has remained one of the most sought-after varietals in the area. 

Enjoy unique experiences like the Vineyard and Library tours, which offer private vineyard tastings and a walkthrough of the winery’s famous Bordeaux-style Cabernet Sauvignon.

2. Buena Vista Winery

Regarded as California’s oldest commercial winery, Buena Vista was founded by Hungarian entrepreneur Agoston Haraszthy in 1857. Its historic caves feel like a storybook, featuring dramatic lighting, elaborate tasting bars, and mannequins in period costumes. You can taste the wine straight from the barrel as a guide explains its history. 

Start where it all began with this immersive Sonoma wine tour.

3. Ferrari-Carrano Vineyards and Winery 

In the villa of Dry Creek Valley, the Ferrari-Carrano Vineyards and Winery is constructed in a grand Renaissance style and boasts the blooms of over 10,000 tulips in the Spring. It’s a relaxing, picturesque getaway overlooking vast vineyards, gardens, and walking trails. 

There’s no shortage of Italian wine and food pairing here. Taste the Fume Blanc with Prosciutto Benedict at their Sunday brunch.

4. Repris Wines

Winemaker Erich Bradley is known for crafting wines that uphold Repris’ tradition. Dating back to the 1880s, this long-standing vineyard is famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon. It boasts some of the oldest wine caves in Sonoma, and the robust red wines are comparable to those in Napa Valley. 

The location of this winery is also favorable, as it isn’t far from the Sonoma Plaza, where the MacArthur Hotel and Spa and more wine tasting await.

5. Vérité Winery

If you’re looking for a French wine-tasting experience, Vérité Winery is known for its distinguished reds, including top-of-the-line Bordeaux blends. Winemaker Pierre Seillan uses a micro-cru approach to select grapes grown in thirty soils. This gives the wine its complexity and unique flavors. 

You can find Seillan’s wines in the Alexander Valley, Bennett Valley, Chalk Hill, and Knights Valley AVAs. 

6. Iron Horse Vineyards

Iron Horse Vineyards offers some of the most beautiful wine tastings in Sonoma, with its dramatic hilltop views overlooking Mount St. Helena and miles of grapevines. This breathtaking winery is known for its Pinot Noir and sparkling wines, which are crafted using the traditional Champagne double fermentation method. 

Despite the rustic outdoor tasting area, there are many effervescent bubbly options, including Blanc de Noirs and a special Wedding Cuvée.

7. Domaine de la Rivière

Located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, this winery is relatively new, with its first vintage having been released in 202. It quickly gained attention for crafting top-quality Rosé, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The winery has won three Double Gold Awards at the San Francisco wine competition for the 2019 Next Door Chardonnay, 2019 Pinot Forces Chardonnay, and 2019 Middle Reach Vineyards Pinot Noir. 

If you’re in the area and want an Old World tasting experience, Domaine de la Rivière has distinguished wines and beautiful scenery in spades. 

8. DeLoach Vineyards

Also located in the Russian River Valley, Deloach Vineyards has been around since the 1970s and boasts beautiful outdoor strolls with a touch of whimsical sculptures. If you’re interested in biodynamic winemaking and sustainable farming, enjoy wine tasting with resident sheep and goats in beautiful gardens within the vineyards. 

Aside from their Theater of Nature attraction, DeLoach focuses on crafting quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

9. Château St. Jean

One of Sonoma County’s wine castles, Chateau St. Jean started as a 1920s vacation home before becoming an elegant winery known for its French-style wines. It boasts a magnificent courtyard and a backdrop of volcanic mountains. Enjoy top-notch Malbec and the flagship Cinq Cepages Bordeaux-style blend.

10. Reeve Wines

Founded by husband and wife team Noah and Kelly Dorrance in 2016 in Dry Creek Valley, Reeve Wines is known for its small batch production, rustic ambiance, and laid-back sipping environment. The wine that stands out is its quality Riesling, each from a different vineyard in Anderson Valley near the Pacific Ocean. 

For cozy hospitality and delicious light wines like Riesling and Pinot Noir, check out Reeve Wines. 

11. Medlock Ames

Founded in 1998 by two college friends, Medlock Ames includes award-winning landscapes and a rustic yet modern overall feel. The building used to be an old saloon. Enjoy the bocce court, organic gardens, and crisp Sauvignon Blanc at their Alexander Valley tasting room.

12. Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate and Gardens

Kendall Jackson is a famous chateau-style winery that serves more than its best-selling Vintner’s Blend. It also boasts quality reserve wines. Enjoy wines paired with fresh gourmet food with ingredients picked directly from culinary gardens. 

Tour the Vineyards of Sonoma

Now that you have more insight regarding Sonoma’s best wineries, there is still more to explore. 

With over 400 wineries and countless wine tours in historic caves, vineyard trails, or the quaint downtown area, Sonoma has something in store for every wine enthusiast. 

Before you go, don’t forget to shop for premium wines at affordable prices at our Wine Shop. You’ll find everything from luscious reds to crisp whites and more. 

Check out the Wine Blog for more deep dives on all your favorite wines and regions.