Top 10 Wineries to Visit in Sonoma County
Sonoma County is a dream destination for wine lovers. With over 425 wineries across 19 unique regions, it’s a place where rolling hills, stunning views, and world-class wines come together. This guide highlights the Top 10 Wineries to Visit in Sonoma County, perfect for planning your perfect wine country getaway or enjoying top wine tasting experiences across Sonoma County.
1. Jordan Vineyard & Winery
Tucked in Alexander Valley, Jordan Vineyard & Winery feels like a slice of Europe in California. Their Cabernet Sauvignon is bold and smooth, and the Chardonnay is crisp and refreshing. I love the guided tours here—they take you through the estate’s gardens and end with a tasting that pairs wine with local bites. The views from the chateau are worth the trip alone.
- Location: 1474 Alexander Valley Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM - 4 PM
- Tip: Book a tour in advance to secure your spot.
2. Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery
This place is a treat for your eyes and your taste buds. The Italian-style villa and five acres of gardens make Ferrari-Carano stand out. Their Fumé Blanc is a crisp favorite of mine, and the reds are rich and full-bodied. Sit on the terrace, sip your wine, and let the vineyard views sink in.
- Location: 8761 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM - 5 PM
- Tip: Spring is the best time to see the gardens in full bloom.
3. St. Francis Winery & Vineyards
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards in Sonoma Valley is all about good wine and good food. Their mission-style tasting room looks out over mountains and vines—it’s hard to beat that view. I recommend the five-course wine and food pairing. It’s a delicious way to taste how their wines shine with fresh, local ingredients.
- Location: 100 Pythian Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95409
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM - 5 PM
- Tip: Reserve the pairing experience early—it fills up fast!
4. Buena Vista Winery
California’s oldest premium winery, Buena Vista, is a history lesson with great wine. The stone buildings and shaded gardens feel timeless. Their Pinot Noir is smooth and earthy—my kind of wine. Take the guided tour to hear stories about Sonoma’s wine past while sipping in the press house.
- Location: 18000 Old Winery Rd, Sonoma, CA 95476
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM - 5 PM
- Tip: Check out the historic wine cave if you can.
5. Chateau St. Jean
Chateau St. Jean in Sonoma Valley is pure elegance. The 1920s chateau and sprawling gardens make you feel like you’ve stepped into a French estate. Their Chardonnay is buttery and bright, and the Pinot Noir is a personal favorite. Sit on the terrace for a tasting and soak in the peaceful vibes.
- Location: 8555 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, CA 95452
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM - 5 PM
- Tip: Bring a camera—the gardens are picture-perfect.
6. Flowers Vineyards & Winery
Up on the Sonoma Coast, Flowers Vineyards & Winery is a hidden treasure. The cool climate makes their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay stand out—crisp and full of flavor. I love the outdoor tastings at the House of Flowers, with ocean views that stretch forever. Add a picnic, and it’s a perfect day.
- Location: 2850 River Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM - 4 PM
- Tip: Call ahead for picnic reservations.
7. Three Sticks Wines
Three Sticks Wines offers a cozy, historic vibe in downtown Sonoma. Housed in a restored 19th-century adobe, it’s small but packed with charm. Their Pinot Noir is silky and rich—hard to resist. Sit in the courtyard for a tasting and feel the history all around you.
- Location: 143 W Spain St, Sonoma, CA 95476
- Hours: Open daily, 11 AM - 5 PM
- Tip: Pair your tasting with local cheeses for a treat.
8. Hanzell Vineyards
Hanzell Vineyards sits quietly in the Mayacamas Mountains, and it’s a gem. Their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are some of the best I’ve tasted—smooth and balanced. The views over Sonoma Valley are stunning, and the guided tour shows off their eco-friendly farming. It’s a peaceful escape.
- Location: 18596 Lomita Ave, Sonoma, CA 95476
- Hours: By appointment only
- Tip: Book early—spots are limited.
9. Jackson Family Wines
Jackson Family Wines has vineyards all over Sonoma County, but their Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens in Fulton is a standout. The gardens are beautiful, and the wines—like their Chardonnay—are top-notch. I enjoy walking the demonstration vineyard and learning about their sustainable ways.
- Location: 5007 Fulton Rd, Fulton, CA 95439
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM - 5 PM
- Tip: Ask about Jackson Family Wines vineyards locations for more stops.
10. Lynmar Estate
Lynmar Estate in the Russian River Valley is luxury at its best. Their Pinot Noir is velvety and delicious, and the Chardonnay is fresh and bright. The gardens here are a calm oasis—perfect for a tasting or lunch. I love how they mix art and nature into the experience.
- Location: 3909 Frei Rd, Sebastopol, CA 95472
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM - 4:30 PM
- Tip: Reserve a lunch pairing for a special treat.
Sonoma County’s wineries are a mix of beauty, flavor, and fun. The Top 10 Wineries to Visit in Sonoma County offer everything from historic charm to modern luxury. Whether you’re planning your perfect wine country getaway or chasing top wine tasting experiences across Sonoma County, these spots won’t disappoint. Grab a glass and start exploring!